By Lora Cook
Going into Thanksgiving and this holiday season, I am so grateful for the past eight years of co-directing GEA with Aino and experiencing the world with so many amazing people who I’ve connected with through cultural exchange and adventures. Most of our alumni know that I spent a year in Finland as a high school exchange student, and I have never been the same since. It opened my mind and heart in such an expansive way that I knew as a teenager that facilitating cultural exchange was my life passion. Over the past few decades I’ve been able to do that in a number of ways, and none more meaningful than through the GEA programs I have helped create and facilitate.
It is now time for new adventures in my life that include a little more play and personal exploration and a little less work. I have decided to sell my interests in GEA to Aino who is excited to be moving our vision and mission forward in new and exciting ways. I want to thank everyone that I’ve worked with over the past several years and express my appreciation and how much GEA has meant to me and how it will always be a huge part of my heart. Thank you Aino and all of the incredible teacher fellows and participants for all of the great memories!
-Lora Cook
Here's to your next great adventure! Thank you for all you've done for GEA and the trip participants.
Lora,
You are an amazing leader! Thank you so much for introducing me to beautiful Finland, a place that is near and dear to my heart too. I’m especially thankful for your kind spirit and how you’ve helped so many teachers expand their vision. Best wishes as you begin exciting new adventures in our awesome world. Elaine
Lora,
I am so sad to hear you are leaving GEA. I wish you only the best in your future endeavors! Thank you for the great memories with GEA. Love,
Lisa