Hello, or “Aluu!” in Greenlandic!
My name is Heather, and I grew up in New York, NY. Today, I live in Washington, DC. I am a pioneer of virtual exchange, which means using technology tools like the Internet and video conferencing to bring the world into classrooms.
When I was a kid, my Mom brought a lot of visitors to my home to tell me stories about the big, wide world. She would bring her friends over to tell me stories, and she would also bring new friends she had met at the store, at work, or on the streets of New York City. This meant a lot to me as a kid. By connecting with so many people from all over the world, I felt like I belonged to a global community.
When I graduated from college, I decided to start Reach the World. Reach the World uses technology tools such as the Internet, video conferencing, and messaging to connect classrooms to people who are traveling, exploring, studying and working around the world.
For 25 years, I have been leading Reach the World. Meeting new people, learning about new cultures, and experiencing new environments are my biggest passions. I feel lucky to get to share these passions with so many students and teachers through Reach the World.
Last year, a great organization called The Explorers Club gave me an award for my work. I felt so excited and honored! This month, The Explorers Club sent me out on an expedition to Greenland. I am on an amazing ship in the Arctic right now! While I am here, my job is to give lectures, or talks, to the guests. I am also connecting to students back home, like you!
I am so excited to explore one of the least-visited places on Earth, and to share my journey with you.
