ATA’s 75th Anniversary: Spirit Week
Did you know that less than 0.5% of U.S. companies reach their 75th anniversary? This year, Academic Travel Abroad joined that distinguished group!
To mark the occasion, our DC-area team gathered for a “spirit week” filled with in-person events that honored the legacy and camaraderie at the heart of ATA. Each day brought new opportunities to reflect and reconnect. We kicked things off with a conversation featuring ATA’s owners—Kate Simpson, Chase Poffenberger, and Mark Lenhart—who shared stories from their three decades of leadership, from epic journeys on the Trans-Siberian Railway to pivotal moments like Tiananmen Square, and the evolution of CET within ATA. Laughter and nostalgia filled the room as we reminisced about adventures (and hairstyles!) through the years.
Midweek, friendly competition took center stage with a lively Jeopardy
lunch—“ATA History for 500, please!”—and a challenge that encouraged colleagues from different divisions to connect over coffee to earn points. The festivities culminated in our traditional Field Day, complete with office games, a scavenger hunt through Dupont Circle, and creative challenges that celebrated our history.
The week concluded with a special interview featuring Sarah Saleh, our Senior VP of Finance and Administration, who has dedicated 41 years to
ATA—more than half the company’s history. From leading seminars in Florence and Siena to memorable bike rides in the Netherlands, Sarah’s stories captured the spirit of adventure and community that continues to inspire us.
As we celebrate this extraordinary anniversary, we’re reminded that ATA’s greatest strength lies in the people and partnerships that have shaped our journey. Here’s to 75 years—and many more to come!
Back to School Season
As the academic year unfolds, we’re reminded of the transformative power of learning—both in and beyond the classroom. Our study abroad division, CET Academic Programs, proudly launched its newest program in Barcelona, welcoming students to a city renowned for its creativity and innovation. CET Barcelona offers a dynamic curriculum with English-taught electives in business, liberal arts, and communications, as well as Spanish language courses for all levels. Students benefit from small cohort sizes, personalized support, and field-based learning that transforms the city into their classroom. We’re excited to see CET Barcelona thrive as a hub for academic growth and cross-cultural connection.
Meanwhile, Academic Travel Abroad continued its decades-long tradition of operating large group programs at Oxford University. Each year, travelers immerse themselves in Oxford’s storied halls, engaging with expert tutors and exploring topics from English gardens to the British Empire. The experience not only offers academic enrichment, but also the chance to connect with fellow lifelong learners in one of the world’s most inspiring settings.
Together, these programs reflect our ongoing commitment to fostering curiosity, connection, and global understanding
Our Ghana Debut
August marked an exciting milestone for ATA as we launched our inaugural trip to Ghana—a vibrant new addition to our portfolio. Ghana, often called the “Gateway to West Africa,” is renowned for its rich history, welcoming culture, and stunning natural beauty. The country is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Cape Coast Castle, lively markets, and a thriving arts and music scene, making it a rising star in global tourism.
Our first journey was a culinary adventure led by the acclaimed Chef Eric Adjepong, whose Ghanaian heritage and culinary expertise brought the country’s flavors to life. Travelers immersed themselves in bustling markets, hands-on cooking classes, and unforgettable meals, all while connecting with local chefs and artisans. The response was overwhelmingly positive—one participant shared that the trip was “beyond my expectations!”
Building on this success, we are thrilled to be working on new Ghana programs in 2026. We look forward to expanding our Ghana offerings and deepening our connections in this remarkable country.
