As I write this post in December, I join many people who feel that 2021 can’t come soon enough! Before we turn the page on 2020, there are a few things we will never forget about this year that changed our organization.
We deeply feel the loss of David Parry, our beloved Chairman Emeritus, who died in July. Not only did Dave show us how to manage many types of crises, he also taught us what “living well” over a long life looks like: a deeply committed partnership with his wife Susan; the vigorous pursuit of alpine trails, historic trains and military history; inspiration from young people and their ideas; and a keen intellect, fed by boundless curiosity. While the details of the pandemic are like no other crisis we’ve faced, Dave’s “playbook,” his hopeful optimism, and his sense of humor are never far from us as we navigate our future.
We also lost some wonderful and talented colleagues this year, as the pandemic decimated the fields of educational travel and study abroad. We remain in touch with many “alumni,” and continue to support them, however we can.
While the world has changed dramatically, our commitment to international travel and education has not. We believe in what we do. May the world that opens up again for all of us be more just, gentle and whole. We can’t wait to see you!
With deep gratitude,
1155 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20036
800.556.7896
[email protected]