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International Speakers Fund

Putting the “International” into DKG

International: The ISF Experience

Have you thought about what the word “international” means in DKG
Society International? Society members reside in one of 17 different
countries. Do you wonder about the women from one of the 16 countries
other than your own? Are you curious how their experiences might be
the same as or different from yours? One way to connect with one of the
amazing educators from other countries is to host an International Speakers
Fund (ISF) speaker at a state organization convention, conference, or
meeting. Along with broadening their knowledge of a relevant subject, state
organization members will learn about her country, its education system,
and some of the cultural activities specific to the people who live there.
Past Maine State Organization president Susan Stinchfield-Plaisted
very graciously shared her experience hosting international speakers:
I had a triennial instead of a biennial office due to a resignation. In my
training in Chicago, I learned about the International Speakers Fund.
As I was planning my first fall workshop, I decided to apply for a
speaker. I chose a speaker that best suited the goals of the state. I was
so excited to receive notice that we would get our first choice.
Members were fortunate to host Sue Torr from England, who had the experience
of getting through school illiterate and had received the Order of the British
Empire (OBE) from Queen Elizabeth II for her accomplishments. Sue shared her
journey of learning to read and assisting
others struggling with literacy. While
in Maine, she also spoke to students
and staff at an alternative high school.
The following year, Stinchfield-
Plaisted applied again, never imagining
the state organization would be lucky
enough to get a second speaker. Claudia
Estrada of Guatemala delivered a
keynote speech about technology
and presented a workshop for state
organization members. Maine State
Organization was delighted to have her
present. Invited to stay several extra
days to explore the fall foliage of Maine,
she and Susan have become friends.
The third year, lo and behold, Maine had a third speaker: Carolyn King from
Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Carolyn shared her expertise on the topic of multiple
intelligences and applications to teachers for effective teaching practices.
Upon reflection on her ISF experiences, Susan particularly appreciated
being able to choose from the topics of the speakers, who were all well

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