Some of you may remember the early computer game (and PBS television show), "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?"Recently I have had the tremendous good fortune to travel to very interesting countries and universities as part of my job and role in advancing the success of higher education institutions through marketing strategy, research and branding. I love this part of my job, as I truly believe I learn as much from my travels as I may teach.

In April, I had the opportunity to visit Brisbane, Australia to work with a client, Queensland University, and attend a conference of Australian Universities where I gave a key note. There are so many interesting developments happening in the Australian market that are driving the schools to adopt even more customer-focused processes and programs. Competition is heating up, and some of the schools are creating some very cool marketing initiatives. Beyond our own client, Queensland University, another school that is garnering a lot of attention is Melbourne University. I was so impressed with their presentation and marketing efforts that I recommended Patrick Freeland-Small, their Vice Principal of Marketing and Communications, to the AMA committee to present a key note address at an upcoming conference. I am happy to report that Pat has been asked and accepted the invitation. I am sure you will love what he has to say as well.

In May, I was privileged to serve as co-chair for CASE's Institute for Integrated Marketing and Branding with Terry Flannery of American University. Once again, I learned a lot from my colleagues that served as faculty (Terry, Joe Hice, Deborah Wiltrout and Tracy Syler-Jones) as well as the participants themselves.

I am now in Maastricht, Netherlands, working at the University of Maastricht and having a wonderful time learning about the Dutch culture and their system of higher education. Thankfully, through the miracle of modern technology (yeah for Skype!), I can keep up with the office and clients back home.

When I return to the states I am heading first to Mexico City for a conference planned by Universidad Panamericana (a three-day adventure) and then off to Lima, Peru for a similar event.

The more I travel and interact with other higher education professionals from around the world, the more I understand the global impact of higher education and the role we play in advancing its mission. I am truly blessed to be part of this effort and am thankful for whatever I can contribute.