The Michael and Nancy Chicola International Professional Development Schools Consortium is an innovative and strategic response to our collective need to increase global competencies.
Beginning in 1991, the SUNY Buffalo State PDS focused its efforts on local school partnerships to prepare and support educators in WNY. Recently, these local classrooms experienced significant cultural and linguistic changes that reflect national demographic changes. To more effectively prepare new teachers for this changing educational context, faculty used existing PDS structures to develop partnerships with international contacts.
IPDS began in 2012 with two short-term, faculty-led study away programs. It now includes partnerships with PK-12 schools and community organizations across five continents, including programs for teacher candidates, student teachers, experienced educators, pre-service and in-service professionals working with children and youth, as well as virtual connections.
IPDS participants are placed in an international school or center where they engage in immersive teaching and learning initiatives, build personal and professional relationships with colleagues from different backgrounds, and develop the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for effective, globally-minded practice.
Each partnership is unique, but the overall purpose of IPDS remains the same – to provide distinctive opportunities for individuals working with children and youth to globalize their understanding and experience of education, including the education of language learners, through international study and travel.
Buffalo State is the recipient of the NAFSA: Association of International Educators 2019 Senator Paul Simon Spotlight Award for Campus Internationalization, recognizing IPDS' success in developing globally competent eductors.
Not accepting applications. Participants selected for Spring 2025 (travel May/June 2025)
Contact: Pixita del Prado Hill or Angela Patti or Raquel Schmidt
Not accepting applications. Upcoming: February 2026.
Contact: Keli Garas-York or Brandon Kawa
Not accepting applications. Upcoming: Spring 2026 (travel June 2026)
Contact: Tamara Horstman-Riphahn or Pamela Schuetze or Angela Patti
Not accepting applications. Upcoming: Fall 2026 (travel January 2027)
Contact: Tamara Horstman-Riphahn or Pamela Schuetze
Not accepting applications. Participants selected for Spring 2025 (travel June/July 2025)
Contact: Tamara Horstman-Riphahn or Brandon Kawa
IPDS KenyaAccepting applications. Upcoming: Spring 2026 (travel May/June 2026).
Contact: Judi Harris
Not accepting applications. Upcoming: Fall 2026 (travel January 2027)
Contact: Kerry Renzoni or Sherri Weber
Accepting applications for 2025 program.
Contact: Drew Kahn
Not accepting applications. Upcoming: February 2026
Contact: Tamara Horstman-Riphahn
Not accepting applications. Participants selected for Spring 2025 (travel May/June 2025)
Contact: Andrew Hashey or Shannon Budin
Accepting applications for fall and spring student teachers. Contact: Nancy Chicola
All IPDS programs are open to all Buffalo State graduate and undergraduate students who are in a teaching program or interested in working with children and youth in another capacity. Some programs are also open to our school partners. Our collaborative partner program (Rwanda) is open to all disciplines as well as alumni and community members.
The application process and acceptance period varies depending on the program. While some programs travel annually, others are held every other year. Check the individual program page for full details, deadlines and travel/course dates.
Scholarships and award funds are available to help students participate in international programs. Below are several opportunities available through Buffalo State. Be sure to look for scholarships on your own through community organizations and groups.
To request funding to help cover travel expenses associated with your participation in an IPDS program. Funds provided from your dean and department chair. IPDS program coordinators will request support on your behalf and notify you of your award - no action necessary. Managed by the School of Education Office of the Dean.
To request funding to support research completed while participating in an IPDS program. Funds provided through Chicola awards and the IPDS. Managed by the School of Education Office of the Dean. Submit completed form to Tamara Horstman-Riphahn.
To determine eligibility for general scholarships available through your academic programs. Once you have completed the General Application you will be auto-matched to scholarships that you immediately qualify for – no further action is required. Managed through the Financial Aid Office.
To provide financial awards to students participating in international study programs and to contribute to promotional activities for these programs. Funds provided by generous alumni and other donors. Managed by the Study Away office. Submit completed form to the Study Away Office.
To request funding to support participation in international service-learning or international volunteer experiences. Funds provided through the Edgar H. Turkle International Volunteer and Service-Learning Scholarship. Managed by the Civic and Community Engagement office. Submit completed form to the CCE Office.
To provide financial support to Muriel A. Howard Honors Program students participating in opportunities that enhance their academic experience. Funds provided through the Honors Grant Allocation Committee. Honors Students ONLY may submit online application (twice max) to the Honors Program.
To provide financial support to eligible graduate students for research and scholarship, creation and/or presentation of professional posters and documents related to research and scholarship, participation and/or membership in professional organizations, and travel/participation in professional conferences. Funds provided through the Graduate Student Association. Graduate Students ONLY may submit online application to the GSA.
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