Norma Gaines-Hanks, 2019 Study Abroad Faculty Director of the Year, has led more than UD 400 students through South Africa and Barbados. Programs include 50 hours of service learning and visits to iconic sites like South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind.

20 years of study abroad

Article by Nikki Laws Photos courtesy of Norma Gaines-Hanks November 19, 2019

CEHD's Norma Gaines-Hanks wins Faculty Director of the Year Award

As the University of Delaware celebrates Global Month in November, the Institute for Global Studies is celebrating the accomplishments of one of our own. Norma Gaines-Hanks, associate professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Sciences (HDFS) has been named Faculty Director of the Year. Having expertly led UD Study Abroad programs for 20 years, Gaines-Hanks will continue celebrating into the new year by co-leading a study abroad program to South Africa in Winter Session 2020.

“This year’s Study Abroad Faculty Director of the Year award should really be seen as a lifetime achievement award,” said Associate Director for Study Abroad Lisa Chieffo.

Gaines-Hanks led her first study abroad program in 1999 and has since impacted the success of 450-plus UD students through experiences in both South Africa and Barbados.

Students who participate in UD study abroad gain the skills they need to navigate an increasingly interconnected workplace.

As a part of her programs, HDFS students enroll in a Culture in Context course and three credits of experiential learning. Participants complete 50 hours of service through placements with local community organizations, child care centers and orphanages.

“We make a commitment to our host communities, and our students develop real, lasting relationships,” Gaines-Hanks said. “In our courses, we talk a lot about intercultural competence and reciprocity. When we sit down, process and reflect, students realize that they are gaining just as much as they give.”

Norma Gaines-Hanks was joined by study abroad alumni during the Annual Best of UD Global Celebration, where she officially accepted her award.

In addition, students discover the history, culture and landscape of their destination. In South Africa, the group ventures to the Madikwe Game Reserve, while participants in Barbados take part in the Celebration of Rhythm Bajan Heritage Show.

Over the years, Gaines-Hanks has put down her own roots, too. “One of the benefits of continuing to return to these locations is that my circle has expanded tremendously,” she said. “And because of that, so many different people can interact with my students. My friendships also give me a sense of comfort. I know that my students will be well-looked-after as they explore their host communities.”

South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve gives students a first-hand look at African wildlife.

As a faculty director, Gaines-Hanks has been a guide and mentor, advising students on every piece of the study abroad process.

“Dr. Gaines-Hanks was extremely hands-on throughout my experience abroad and was a real force behind my decision to study abroad not once but twice during my undergraduate experience,” UD alumna Ayanna Gill said. A Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship recipient and 2016 graduate, Gill now works as an associate producer at the ABC News program Nightline, where she continues to leverage her study abroad experience.

“Dr. Gaines-Hanks was never judgemental and always validating. She always encouraged us to step outside of our comfort zone and gave us ways to do so,” wrote another student in their nomination letter. “She empowered us to take control of our time and to be kind to everyone we meet.”

Norma Gaines-Hanks and Francis Kwansa have co-directed study abroad programs together since 2004.

For her success, Gaines-Hanks thanks her co-director, Francis Kwansa, an associate professor in the Department of Hospitality Business Management. “Francis and I have done these programs together many times, and we just fall into rhythm. We balance each other out in many ways,” she said.

For Future Faculty Directors

All UD faculty are encouraged to consider leading a Winter Session 2021 study abroad program and should consult with their department chair and Lisa Chieffo prior to submitting a proposal. For more information, visit the Institute for Global Studies website and apply by Dec. 1, 2019.

About the Institute for Global Studies

The Institute for Global Studies (IGS) inspires and facilitates the pursuit of global understanding by developing innovative and inclusive programs of study, opportunities for experiential learning and strategic partnerships.

Perhaps best known for leading the nation’s first study abroad program, IGS is also home to the first-of-its-kind UD World Scholars Program and the Delaware Diplomats Scholarship Program. IGS supports student success through advisement for prestigious awards, including Fulbright, Boren, Gilman and Critical Language Scholarships, as well as sponsorship of the International House (iHouse) Living Learning Community.

The Institute annually administers internationally-recognized State Department public diplomacy programs, bringing 75-plus young leaders from around the world to our Newark campus.

IGS provides faculty funding for research and collaboration abroad, manages the University’s global partnerships and agreements process and sponsors signature events, such as UD Global Month and the Spring Fulbright Lecture Series.