The SUNY COIL has launched its SUNY COIL Ambassador Recognition Program under its Global Partner Network, with annual nominations open to member institutions. The initiative brings together educators from partner universities across different countries who engage in Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) through virtual classroom partnerships. Introduced in 2026, the program recognizes faculty members who show strong commitment, creativity, and effectiveness in fostering meaningful international learning experiences. The Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. also expressed pride in its Academic Director, Dr. Erwin M. Faller, who is among the recognized outstanding COIL instructors.

The program was created to honor educators who go beyond traditional teaching by building learning spaces where students from different cultural and academic backgrounds can connect, collaborate, and learn from one another. It highlights how COIL transforms classrooms into shared environments where ideas are exchanged freely, helping students develop broader perspectives without needing to travel abroad.

The educators featured in the announcement include Luciani Ester Tenani of Sidi Bouzid State University in Brazil, Erwin M. Faller of Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc., and Sarah Fantin of SENAC São Paulo State in Brazil. Their recognition reflects their dedication to making collaborative, cross-border learning more meaningful and accessible to students.

As part of the program, selected faculty members receive a certificate of recognition, a digital badge, and a featured profile on the official SUNY COIL website. More importantly, they are encouraged to continue sharing their experiences and strategies with other educators, helping strengthen and expand COIL practices across academic institutions.

The initiative supports several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 4 (Quality Education) by encouraging innovative and inclusive teaching practices; SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening collaboration among institutions; SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by widening access to international learning opportunities; and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by promoting the use of digital platforms in education.

Beyond recognition, the program helps build a stronger sense of connection among educators and students by encouraging the sharing of knowledge and teaching practices across different learning communities. It also creates opportunities for more engaging, flexible, and collaborative learning experiences that prepare students for a more connected and dynamic academic environment.

Dr. Faller shared his appreciation for the recognition and expressed how meaningful it is to be part of a network that values collaboration and innovation in teaching. His involvement reflects a shared commitment to continuously improving how students learn and connect across different educational settings.

The SUNY COIL Ambassador Recognition Program reflects SUNY COIL’s ongoing commitment to supporting educators who are reshaping learning through collaboration, innovation, and meaningful academic partnerships across institutions.