Melody Loya, Ph.D: Professor of Social Work; Associate Dean of University College; Tareton State University, Texas
Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 3:00-4:00 pm, Koffler Great Room at ASA and zoom
Dr. Melody Aye Loya draws on her many years of leading study abroad programs to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic, exploring how travel, when done thoughtfully, can be deeply transformative. Rather than seeing host countries as places to simply visit or “help,” she designed programs that immersed students in local cultures and emphasized respect, mutual learning, and ethical engagement. Guided by her background in social work, she strove to avoid approaches that unintentionally reinforced colonial attitudes or created dependency. Dr. Loya shares stories from her travels with students as well as how those experiences changed her personally. She will discuss her research on the long-term impact of these programs, showing lasting changes in participants’ attitudes and behaviors. Finally, she’ll share how she adapted these programs for practicing professionals seeking continuing education, demonstrating that meaningful travel can shape values at any stage of life.