Expanding Horizons: Insights for Developing Effective Global Education From Alliance 2025 With Shelby Englert, CHCP, and Lori Agbonkhese

At this year’s Alliance Annual Conference, Shelby Englert, CHCP, Vice President of Education at the American Urological Association (AUA), and Lori Agbonkhese, Director of International Programs at AUA, presented a session on strategies for developing effective and inclusive global education programs. Afterwards, they sat down with i3 Health to share additional insights into the importance of tailoring medical education to the needs of diverse international audiences, conducting robust needs assessments, and building long-term relationships with both industry partners and medical societies in order to create impactful educational initiatives worldwide.

Understanding the Complexity of Global Education

One of the primary points emphasized by Ms. Englert and Ms. Agbonkhese was the importance of recognizing the inherent differences between domestic and international healthcare education systems. For example, residency and licensing requirements vary significantly across countries. In the United States, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) oversees residency and fellowship programs, but this structure is not universal. Similarly, relicensure and continuing medical education (CME) requirements differ globally.

“You can’t assume that the resident experience is the same everywhere,” Ms. Englert noted. “You need to consider factors such as practice environments, cultural learning preferences, and access to resources.” This understanding is critical to tailoring educational programs that are both relevant and effective for international audiences.

Conducting International Needs Assessments

A cornerstone of successful global education is a comprehensive needs assessment. AUA’s approach involves leveraging its international membership base to gather insights. Ms. Englert explained that their process includes one-on-one interviews, focus groups, and online surveys. To gain a holistic view, AUA often conducts parallel assessments for domestic and international audiences, allowing for a side-by-side comparison of needs and preferences.

Ms. Agbonkhese highlighted the importance of designing surveys that capture a wide range of data, including competencies, comfort levels, and actual knowledge. “Someone may say they are confident, but their responses to knowledge-based questions might tell a different story,” she said. The resulting data is synthesized into infographics that guide the development of targeted learning objectives and content.

Faculty Selection and Activity Modalities

When selecting faculty for global education programs, it’s essential to think beyond expertise. Ms. Agbonkhese advised viewing faculty as ambassadors who represent the organization and foster long-term relationships with international counterparts. “Faculty should be flexible, culturally sensitive, and experienced in international travel,” she explained. “They need to engage with learners in ways that resonate with their cultural and professional contexts.”

The modality of educational activities also plays a significant role. Preferences for didactic versus interactive sessions, large group versus small group formats, and in-person versus virtual delivery can vary by region. The choice of modality should align with the learners’ needs and the resources available in the target countries.

Building Strategic Partnerships

Collaboration with local and multinational medical societies is crucial for the success of global education initiatives. AUA prioritizes establishing diplomatic relationships to ensure their efforts are seen as complementary rather than competitive.

“Partnering with national societies provides access to their existing membership and enhances the credibility of our programs,” Ms. Agbonkhese noted. She emphasized the importance of fostering trust and mutual respect to create sustainable partnerships.

Industry partnerships can also amplify the impact of global education. By aligning goals and leveraging industry resources, organizations can expand their reach and stay informed about advancements in therapies and technologies. These partnerships can also help tailor education to address specific gaps, such as limited access to certain treatments or devices in a given region.

Strategic Vision and Internal Resources

For organizations considering a foray into global education, Ms. Englert underscored the importance of having a clear strategic vision and securing top-level buy-in. “Global education requires a multiyear commitment and significant investment,” she said. “It’s not a short-term endeavor.”

Additionally, having the right internal resources is essential. The AUA relies on a dedicated team with expertise in international education and event planning. “You can’t assume that someone experienced in domestic education can easily pivot to the global stage,” Ms. Englert cautioned.

Taking the First Step

For organizations new to global education and hoping to take the first step, Ms. Englert and Ms. Agbonkhese offered the following advice:

1. Develop a strategic plan: Define clear goals and set realistic timelines, recognizing that outcomes may take several years to materialize
2. Prioritize efforts: Focus on a phased approach, starting with a few key countries or regions before scaling up
3. Assess outcomes: Determine in advance how success will be measured, whether through membership growth, attendance, or other metrics
4. Invest in internal expertise: Ensure your team includes individuals with experience and skills tailored to the unique challenges of global education

A Marathon, Not a Sprint

The process of developing effective global education requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to understanding and respecting the diverse needs of international learners. By following these principles and investing in long-term relationships, organizations can create impactful educational programs that make a meaningful difference worldwide.

About the Speakers

Shelby Englert, CHCP, is the Vice President of Education at the American Urological Association. She has been at AUA for nine years, with over 25 years of experience in healthcare education. In her current role, she oversees both domestic and global education for urology clinicians.

Lori Agbonkhese is the International Programs Director at the American Urological Association. She has worked at AUA in various capacities for 23 years. In her current role, she oversees global outreach and diplomacy, building relationships that help the organization deliver effective education around the world.