The Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) proudly highlights four members who’ve earned recognition through the Fulbright Specialist and Scholar Programs. These prestigious global education fellowships support international collaboration in education, empowering educators to lead innovation in educational technology, AI in learning, and open science.
From advancing AI in education to exploring open science, these scholars exemplify the international reach and academic excellence at the heart of the AECT community.
What Is the Fulbright Program? Global Education Exchange for Scholars
Administered by the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious international exchange programs in the world. It offers educators, researchers, and professionals the chance to work collaboratively across borders, share expertise, and contribute to global problem-solving.
The Fulbright Specialist and Scholar programs are highly competitive, offering selected participants a platform to build cross-cultural relationships and make meaningful contributions in their fields.
Dr. Ali Carr-Chellman: Expanding Horizons with AI and Global Collaboration
AECT Past President Dr. Ali Carr-Chellman has been named to the Fulbright Specialist Roster, a prestigious 3-year appointment that supports short-term global exchanges. While her host country and project match are still pending, she’s already had several exciting proposals cross her desk.
“My interests lie in how Artificial Intelligence is applied within education and the health sciences,” she shares. “I hope to explore global perspectives on these innovations—especially their ethical implications in human learning.”
Dr. Carr-Chellman, who has spent decades writing about systems change and educational technology, sees this opportunity as a chance to broaden her own professional lens and contribute meaningfully to the international EdTech discourse.
She credits AECT for encouraging her to pursue big opportunities:
“AECT has taught me the value of learning about new challenges and saying ‘yes.’ It’s been instrumental in my professional growth—especially through my presentations with AECT affiliates, both virtually and in person.”
Her advice for members considering Fulbright? “Do it! AECT members have incredible skills, and international partners are eager to collaborate and learn from what we have to offer.”
Dr. Caitlin Riegel: Co-Creating Solutions Across Borders
Recently added to the Fulbright Specialist Roster, Dr. Caitlin Riegel brings a passion for online learning, innovation, and virtual environments to the international stage. “This recognition represents a powerful opportunity to deepen the global dialogue around educational technology,” she explains. Her global mindset was shaped in part by a recent conference in South Africa, which reaffirmed the value of cross-cultural partnerships. “Global partnerships are essential when we're tackling the biggest challenges in education—especially the ones that require tech-driven solutions.”
Now exploring collaborative projects related to online instruction and AI, Dr. Riegel is energized by the creativity and innovation she sees around the world:
“What excites me most is working side-by-side with brilliant educators to co-create solutions. It’s a privilege to be part of this inspiring community.”
Professor Elizabeth Boling: Designing with Communities in Mind
Fulbright Scholar Award recipient Professor Elizabeth Boling will spend January through May 2026 in Guatemala, where she will teach and conduct research in partnership with Universidad del Valle de Guatemala. Dividing her time between studio and professional development teaching, Boling will also collaborate with indigenous communities near Lake Atitlán on a co-design research project. Together, they will develop a model for creating cultural tourism proposals that prioritize community control and equity. Drawing on her long-standing expertise in design pedagogy, Boling hopes to advance both faculty capacity in publishing design scholarship and the field’s understanding of co-design—envisioning designers as respectful partners in the lives of others. She credits AECT’s broad professional and leadership opportunities with helping her imagine and pursue such an impactful international project, and encourages members considering a Fulbright to start building connections early: “The ideas and support from host-country partners made a real difference from the earliest stages of my proposal.”
Dr. Rick West: Advancing Open Science through Global Scholarship
While in Madrid, Dr. West will be working closely with local faculty, collaborating on teaching information skills, and conducting research on open science—a natural extension of his work in open education and micro-credentials. “This experience promotes exactly what Fulbright stands for: cultural appreciation, collaboration between countries, and shared research strengths,” Dr. West shares.
Having previously spent time in the Netherlands and Slovenia, Dr. West knows firsthand how international experiences shape not only research but also teaching. “These opportunities make me a better scholar—and a better mentor for my students.”
Looking ahead, he sees tremendous potential for AECT to grow its global footprint:
“AECT has the opportunity to become a research network with strong ties around the world. I hope we continue to strengthen our international reach.”
AECT and Global Educational Technology Leadership
Our members’ recognition by the Fulbright Program highlights something we’ve known all along: AECT is a global community of innovators, leaders, and changemakers. Their achievements remind us that educational technology doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It thrives when we collaborate across borders, share knowledge, and design for impact on a worldwide scale. AECT remains committed to supporting its members in pursuing international opportunities, professional growth, and leadership development across our network of global affiliates.
Thinking About Your Own Fulbright Journey?
If you're an AECT member considering a Fulbright award, take inspiration from these leaders—and take the leap. Whether your expertise lies in learning design, technology integration, or research innovation, there’s a world of educators eager to connect.
“Do it,” says Dr. Carr-Chellman. “The world needs your voice—and Fulbright makes it possible to share it.”
Join the Global Conversation: Meet & Greet with IPTPI & AECT International Convention
✨ Interested in building your international network?
Join us Tuesday, September 23 at 8:00 PM ET for a special international Member Meet & Greet between the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) and our affiliate, the Indonesian Educational Technology Professional Association (IPTPI).
This informal virtual gathering is a chance to build connections, exchange ideas, and celebrate our shared commitment to advancing educational technology around the world. Whether you're a longtime AECT member or brand new, come ready to introduce yourself, learn from global colleagues, and explore future collaboration opportunities.
This year’s AECT International Convention in Las Vegas is also shaping up to be a vibrant hub for global exchange. Meet members from AECT affiliates like JSET (Japan Society for Educational Technology), TAECT (Taiwan Association for Educational Communications and Technology), and KSET (Korean Society for Educational Technology. If you’re attending the convention, you’ll have the unique opportunity to engage with these scholars and others from around the world, fostering meaningful conversations and future collaborations.
About the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT)
AECT is an international organization that values diversity of thought, culture, and people, with a mission to improve learning through educational technology. AECT members include instructional designers, researchers, educators, and professionals dedicated to advancing the field through research, best practices, and innovation. AECT provides a collaborative space for thought leadership and knowledge-sharing across academic and professional settings.