Advocating for International Education AWISA, January 2008 Masaru Kibukawa, Cascadia Community College Kelley Osmanbhoy, University of Washington

Agenda Why Advocate? How to Advocate NAFSA Resources Reminders Question and Answer

Why Advocate? BECAUSE IT WORKS! YOU are the expert – share your expertise

NAFSA Successes Spanish Visa Issues, 2005 Lincoln Study Abroad Act of 2006 State Level Resolutions Simon Study Abroad Act of 2007 Over 4500 letters and phone calls were made to Congress on these and other issues. Collectively, we have a STRONG voice.

How to Advocate: Tips 10.Research the member of Congress 9.Relate the issue back to the district 8.You’re the expert, talk about what you know – but no jargon 7.Have an ask and provide accurate and relevant information to support your ask 6.Know both sides of the issue

5.Personalize your communication 4.Be concise but thorough 3.Use an integrated approach 2.Say thank you 1.Focus on building a relationship with the member’s office *Be Confident!*

NAFSA Resources ACT Advocacy Day State Whips

Advocacy Centered Team (ACT) Members and non-members may join ACT.

Many FREE resources are available on the NAFSA site: -Statistics -Congressional contact information -Advocacy handbook -Sample letters

State Whips Three main goals of the State Whip Network: 1.Build relationships 2.Increase international education activism 3.Provide training WA State Whip: Masaru Kibukawa WA State Deputy Whip: Mariah Ortiz Advocacy Day Trained NAFSAn: Kelley Osmanbhoy

Call to Action Sign-up for ACT today ( and begin contacting your legislators! Participate in Advocacy Day, March Contact Masaru to join a WA state effort to pass a state resolution in support of international

Q & A