Academic Travel Abroad

09/03/2026

The eclipse may be over, but the memories continue to shine. 🌘

We're delighted to see Smithsonian Journeys' recent eclipse blog, celebrating the unforgettable moments travelers experienced during this once-in-a-lifetime event. Read the post here: https://loom.ly/Eq03a-w

A special congratulations to ATA Program Manager Jennifer Kefer, who is featured in the story, and to everyone who helped bring these extraordinary eclipse experiences to life. We're proud to have been part of such a remarkable success.

08/12/2026

🌘 The excitement is building! Our staff and travelers are getting ready for an unforgettable eclipse experience, counting down to a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular events. ✨☀️

08/06/2026

Partner spotlight! ⭐ The Great Courses Journeys expert Steven Tuck is featured in a new docuseries Pompeii: Out of Time with Tom Hiddleston. Be sure to check it out on Disney+ or Hulu! https://loom.ly/yu_BoCU

05/07/2026

🌿 Big thanks to our ATA volunteers! 🌿
We are proud to recognize our dedicated volunteers, who came together on Earth Day to remove invasive plants at Normanstone Mini-Oasis. Together, they removed 10+ bags of invasive garlic mustard, helping protect our watershed and parklands!

04/08/2026

Catch up on our latest updates and highlights in our Q1 Newsletter, and sign up on our website to receive future newsletters straight to your inbox! https://loom.ly/wYzlnhA

Earlier this year, ATA marked a significant milestone with a leadership update. Mark Lenhart, a long-time leader at CET Academic Programs, stepped into the role of President of Academic Travel Abroad. Mark brings a wealth of experience in educational travel and a clear vision for the organization’...

02/12/2026

Last week we hosted the National Tour Association (NTA) Owners’ Network Marketing & Operations Meeting in Washington, DC.

The conversations were thoughtful, practical, and timely—covering everything from travel marketing trends and AI adoption to operational efficiency, pricing challenges, customer expectations, and professional development. What stood out most was the openness and willingness among NTA member organizations to share real-world experiences and solutions.

We’re grateful to be part of a community that values collaboration and peer-to-peer learning, and left the meeting energized by the ideas and insights exchanged. Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to such a meaningful industry discussion.

01/30/2026

Today we celebrate Sarah Saleh’s last day at ATA after an incredible 41 years. Her dedication, brilliance, and steady leadership have shaped our organization in lasting ways.

Please join us in wishing Sarah a joyful retirement, and share your favorite memories or well‑wishes in the comments!

01/15/2026

We’re excited to share that Mark Lenhart is now President of Academic Travel Abroad and CET Academic Programs. Kate Simpson becomes CEO and Chair, and Chase Poffenberger is appointed Vice Chair, while continuing her leadership as Executive Director of Educational Travel. Read more → https://loom.ly/rpvSlqw

We are pleased to announce that Mark Lenhart has been named President of Academic Travel Abroad. Founded 76 years ago in the wake of World War II, Academic Travel Abroad began by taking students to Europe and the Soviet Union—an origin that reflects our longstanding commitment to fostering global ...

01/13/2026

2025 was an unforgettable year! From our 75th anniversary celebrations to connecting with colleagues across the globe, we were reminded about what makes our community so special. Here’s to more learning, adventure, and creating impactful travel experiences together in 2026.✈️🌍💫 https://loom.ly/ZRs1STk

What a year! Our work really spanned the globe this year— we witnessed the migration of butterflies in Mexico, explored brain health in the “Blue Zone” of Sardinia, walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain, and explored the culinary heritage of Ghana! For each experience, we sought to transform ...

12/22/2025

Happy Holidays! 🎄✨
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a wonderful New Year! Please note: Our offices are closed on December 25th and January 1st. Thank you for an amazing year—we look forward to working together in 2026!