Tiffany Ivins graduated from BYU April 1999 with a minor in international development (literacy emphasis). She acquired additional skills at the Kennedy Center as a field facilitator for International Study Programs (formerly International Field Studies and Internships) students in South Africa and East London and conducted research in the Philippines. Her current position as an international programs officer for Laubach Literacy International was obtained in part because of her overseas experience. “My supervisor tells me that my two internships in Africa have qualified me beyond many degree-holding people in this NGO office. I never would have experienced that without the international programs.”
Ivins also said her “studies at BYU helped me significantly because I was afforded ‘in-the-field’ experience at a very pivotal point in my studies. Professors and programs in the Kennedy Center were great forums for me to explore my previous experiences and to prepare for future adventures. There is nothing like a hands-on experience guided by professors who believe in the students. I am appreciative for committed faculty and staff who fight to make available the interdisciplinary program at the Kennedy Center, and I hope these programs continue and expand.”
Ivins still has contact with many Kennedy Center alumni and teachers and said, “I certainly remember many fond hours passed in the Kennedy Center—philosophical conversations about how we could change the world, resolve conflicts, or initiate revolutions. Although a mere building, I think the Kennedy Center will always be a place I remember as a communal respite to recharge my spirit. The torch is passed, but my flame still burns.”
Laubach Literacy International has already given Ivins the opportunity to conduct field visits to Nepal and Thailand, and she implemented research on “Affects of Maternal Education on Children’s Health” in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Nepal, and Bangladesh this summer.
Ivins plans to continue her studies by beginning a master’s degree program in International and Comparative Education at the University of Oxford in October.