In 2016, Dashiell Hillgartner completed his graduate degree while working on a project with the AASD. The impact of this experience and deep connection with the organization continues to influence and guide his career in international education. Dash currently lives in Juneau, Alaska where he works as the Academic Exchange & Study Abroad Coordinator for the University of Alaska Southeast. Having lived and worked in Chile, Costa Rica, Spain, Peru, and rural Alaska, Dash has become a passionate advocate for hands-on, place-based education programs as a method to foster learning and relationships between communities around the world. In addition to the University of Alaska, Dash works on the NAFSA: National Association of International Educators Region 1 Leadership Team and serves on the Juneau Sister Cities Committee. Outside of work, Dash spends his time with his family and dogs hiking, fishing, and planning trips.