75 Years and Counting
In celebration of Academic Travel Abroad’s 75th anniversary, ATA President Kate Simpson reflected on the company’s rich history and its evolution over the years. From its founding by Fritz Kaufmann in 1950 running faculty-led student trips to becoming a leader in study abroad and cultural travel programs, ATA has always aimed to enhance global understanding through travel and education.
Please join us in celebrating this milestone with us and read Kate Simpson’s full article on our blog to learn more about ATA’s journey and vision for the future.
JEDI Annual Review
At Academic Travel Abroad, we’ve always been passionate about making a meaningful impact in the world of travel and international education. We believe that fostering a more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment enriches every aspect of our work. In 2024, we took significant steps forward, launching JEDI-focused vendor guidelines and improving accessibility across our platforms. Our Executive Team also participated in external JEDI education sessions to further our growth.
Reflecting on our progress, Karen Olivas shared, “The process is ongoing, but we’re pleased to have achieved 82.5% of our 2024 goals”. We’re proud of the strides we’ve made and remain dedicated to cultivating a culture of inclusion. Explore our full JEDI reflection summary to learn about how we’re shaping a more equitable future and the ongoing work that continues to guide us.
Unveiling New Travel Experiences
We are thrilled to announce the launch of three fantastic travel programs! In collaboration with our partners, we have put together some truly unique experiences around the world. Scientific American is offering an inspiring 2026 eclipse cruise in the Mediterranean with ports of call in Barcelona and the Balearic Islands. Wine Enthusiast launched Cork + Compass Travel, a new travel program tailored for wine lovers, offering immersive experiences in renowned wine regions including Tuscany and Sonoma. DC-based restaurateur Rose Previte inaugurated Compass Caravans, where she will be taking travelers on a custom-curated culinary and cultural journey through Jordan. We are excited to collaborate with these organizations and bring new and unforgettable travel experiences to the market.
