Jennifer Flannery's Journey in International Education and Leadership: A Lecture Overview

Introduction

• Jennifer Flannery: a world traveler, leader, and expert in international education.
• Jennifer's background includes extensive travel, teaching, leadership coaching, and real estate investment.

Early Life and Education

• Grew up in Colorado, Denver area.
• Experienced some sibling competition with her sister, 13 months apart in age.
• Enjoyed academic pursuits and was involved in various extracurricular activities including band and sports.
• Her love for travel was influenced by her parents, began traveling internationally at 14 through a school program.

Professional and Volunteering Background

• Over two decades in international education.
• Significant projects include solutions to improve opportunities for students to study abroad.
• Extensive volunteering experience and training hundreds of volunteers for mission trips.
• Taught globalization at the university level and loves leadership development coaching.

Key Travel Experiences

• Participated in 'Up with People': a cultural and performing arts organization that builds bridges of friendship across the globe.
  • Highlights include performing in Milan, Italy and staying with 73 host families in a year.
• Missions trip to India after the tsunami in 2005-2006: a profound and intense experience.
• Lived in Melbourne, Australia, which she cherished.

Embarrassing Moments and Lessons in Leadership

• Shared stories of awkward moments during professional training sessions that highlight the importance of effective communication and networking.

International Education and Systems

• Role in advising and assisting students to study abroad and participate in global education programs.
• Described the U.S. congressional sting operation related to international education funding and the importance of proper financial management for international students.

Personal Life and Challenges

• Single, dedicated professional with a story of resilience and transition through various personal and professional phases.
• Discussed overcoming hardships, including financial instability, moving multiple times, and the emotional challenges of being single and living alone.

Real Estate and Future Projects

• Passionate about solving big problems in education, employment, and housing.
• Interested in tiny house development as a solution to housing shortages and financial constraints.
  • Potential uses for tiny homes include helping the homeless, offering affordable housing solutions, and creating collaborative community spaces.

Coping with Grief and Loss

• Shared her personal experiences with grief, particularly related to job instability and personal transitions.
• Emphasized God's provision and faithfulness through challenging times.

Encouragement to Single Women

• Encourages single women to find strength and value in their unique journeys and to realize their potential beyond societal expectations.

Vision and Goals

• Desires to make a significant impact in solving accessibility, education, jobs, and housing problems through entrepreneurship and community service.

Closing Thoughts

• Reminded listeners of the importance of gratitude, community, and persistence in the face of challenges.
• Emphasized the need to be patient and faithful as God works through life's transitions and trials.

Key Takeaways

• Jennifer’s life is an example of resilience, adaptability, and dedication to making a difference in the world through education and leadership.
• The importance of networking, volunteerism, and a global perspective in personal and professional growth.
• Encouragement to stay focused on God’s plan and be open to the opportunities He provides, even in seasons of uncertainty.