Beyond Borders

How Higher Education Shapes the Future as a Catalyst for Collaboration, Innovation, and Economic Growth

With special guest: Clare Overmann | CEO, AIEA | Former Senior Director, IIE | Global Education Leader

Clare Overmann has spent her career building bridges across borders—turning higher education into a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth.

From her early days in the private sector in The Netherlands to leading global partnerships at the Institute of International Education, Clare’s journey has been one of purpose and global impact. Today, as CEO of AIEA, she leads a global network of higher education leaders shaping the future of international learning, policy, and partnerships.

Behind the leadership title lies a powerful personal story—what inspired her to dedicate her life to education, how she navigated complex international partnerships, and why she believes universities are key to building more equitable, innovative, and prosperous societies.

This conversation isn’t just about academia—it’s about how education drives economies, transforms communities, and connects the world.

Discussion Highlights
1. From Industry to Impact
How Clare transitioned from the petrochemical sector in The Netherlands to global education—and the moments that shaped her purpose.

2. Partnerships that Power Progress
What it takes to build sustainable, mutually beneficial academic collaborations that fuel innovation and opportunity.

3. Higher Education as an Economic Engine
How universities contribute to workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and international development.

4. Education for Global Impact
How higher education cultivates ethical leaders who think beyond borders and act with integrity, empathy, and responsibility.

5. Leading Through Complexity
Her perspective on the future of international higher ed leadership—and the mindsets required to thrive in an uncertain world.

About the Guest
Clare Overmann is CEO of AIEA, the leading association for senior international officers and global education leaders. She previously served as Senior Director at the Institute of International Education (IIE), where she led the Center for International Partnerships, managing collaborations across 15+ countries.

With a B.A. from Georgetown University and an M.A. from NYU Steinhardt, Clare brings deep understanding of policy, partnership, and people to advance higher education as a force for global good. Her work bridges academia, diplomacy, and leadership—empowering universities to shape a more connected and equitable world.

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