Stacie Freeman, M.S.S.W.
National Geographic Certified | 2024 Traveling Teacher of the Year
Traveling Teacher on a Mission
The world is my classroom.
Access is my mission.
In 2011, I founded the Global Studies program at Bethel University with a simple belief: education should extend beyond the classroom - and beyond a student’s zip code. That March, I led ten sociology students on an alternative spring break to Costa Rica. What happened there changed everything. Students who had never owned a passport or flown on a plane returned with confidence, clarity, and a deeper understanding of the world - and their place in it. Word spread. Enrollment grew. What began as a single trip evolved into a rigorous, credit-bearing model rooted in ethical service, community-identified partnerships, and transformational learning.
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By 2016, Bethel expanded the program to include high school students and community members, recognizing what I had already seen firsthand: when access is widened, impact multiplies.
Then came December 10, 2021.
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A devastating tornado tore through my hometown of Dresden, Tennessee - just weeks before local high school students were scheduled to depart for a service-learning program in Costa Rica. Families lost homes, businesses, and financial stability overnight. Canceling the trip would have been easy. But after years of disruption from COVID, these students had already lost too much.
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So we did something different.
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I began raising scholarship funds - and donors responded. Several said something that permanently reshaped this work:
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“If you started a nonprofit, I’d give more - and more often.”
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In 2022, Global Citizen Adventure Corps (GCAC) was born. What began as a response to disaster has grown into a mission-driven organization recognized nationally for innovation in philanthropy and rated as a Top-Rated Nonprofit for its commitment to access, transparency, and student impact. GCAC exists to ensure global learning is not reserved for the privileged - but made possible for students from rural communities, underfunded schools, and underserved backgrounds.
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To date, I’ve led more than 800 students and community members on nearly 60 programs across 14 countries, but the numbers matter less than the outcomes: students return home more confident, globally literate, and ready to engage the world with curiosity, humility, and purpose.
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Over time, this work has earned recognition - not because of where we traveled, but how we traveled. I’ve been honored by national and regional organizations for teaching excellence, community leadership, and innovation in international education, including being named the first-ever Traveling Teacher of the Year by a national education publication and earning recognition from National Geographic, Points of Light, and Great Nonprofits for impact-driven, student-centered work.
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International education shouldn’t be a luxury.
It should be a launchpad.
My 2026 Calendar
Join us for an unforgettable 8-day program from March 7 - 14, 2026, starting with an flight to Dublin. Experience the rich culture of, visiting landmarks like St. Patrick Cathedral and the lively Temple Bar. Travel to Belfast for the Titanic Exhibition and explore the Giant’sway and Dunluce Castle. Finally, enjoy a scenic journey to Edinburgh, featuring a guided tour and a taste of traditionalaggis, before returning to the USA. This tour offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes across Ireland and Scotland. This program is offered in partnership with Bethel University and Global Citizen Adventure Corps.
Embark on a transformative journey from March 21 - 29, 2026, as you explore the cradle of Western Civilization. Walk in the footsteps of apostles, philosophers, and storytellers, visiting iconic sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens, the Oracle of Delphi, and the stunning islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Ephesus and Patmos, while enjoying vibrant island life and traditional Greek cuisine. This program offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the enduring legacies of democracy, mythology and Christianity that continue to shape our world today. This program is offered in partnership with Bethel University and Global Citizen Adventure Corps.
Join us for a transformative 7-day program from May 18 - 24, 2026 in the vibrant city of Cali, for its salsa culture, incredible cuisine, and rich heritage. You'll have the opportunity to volunteer at Colegio Americano, teaching English, engaging students from pre-K to high school on various subjects, including the United Nations Sustainable Goals. Experience the perfect blend of meaningful volunteer work and thrilling cultural adventures amidst Cali's natural wonders. Don't miss this chance to make a difference while immersing yourself in a lively community! This program is offered in partnership with Bethel University and Global Citizen Adventure Corps.
Join us from May 24 - 29, 2026, for an unforgettable 6-day travel program with Girl Scouts – Heart of The South as we explore the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica! Experience the thrill of beach visits, jungle hikes, and refreshing waterfall swims Contribute to meaningful causes by volunteering at an animal rescue center and teaching UN Development Goals at a local primary school. Embrace the spirit of “Pura Vida” while making a positive impact in this incredible, diverse country! This program is offered in partnership with Bethel University and Global Citizen Adventure Corps.
Join us for an unforgettable 10-day adventure in Japan from May - June 5, 2026! Start your journey in Tokyo, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. Explore historic shrines and cityscapes, then head to the breathtaking Mount Fuji area. Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s cultural heart, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, and discover the historical wonders of Nara before experiencing the bustling and delicious cuisine of Osaka, including a visit to our sister school, Osaka Jogakuin University. This fully guided tour promises the perfect mix of Japan’s charm and excitement! This program is offered in partnership with Bethel University and Global Citizen Adventure Corps.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Join us for a magical trip to Belize, with an exciting side trip to Guatemala to explore the ancient Mayan ruins Tikal. Experience the vibrant culture, indulge in cooking lessons, and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Belize Reef and hidden caves. Mark your calendars for this incredible journey from June 22 to June 29, 2026! This program is offered in partnership with Bethel University and Global Citizen Adventure Corps.
What Travelers Say
Corbin H.
High School Student
Gleason, TN
Seriously, Mexico with Bethel University was one of the best things I’ve ever done. The Dual Enrollment part was cooler than I expected, but the actual trip was amazing. It was crazy to see the old Mayan ruins in person; you can’t really appreciate them from a textbook. We went swimming in the coolest cenotes, too. But talking to the families we met and hearing their stories was definitely the most intense part; I’ve never felt like a more privileged, oblivious person before. The reason it didn’t feel like an ordinary vacation was that we were still learning the whole time – about sustainability, about history, and how to be a good global citizen. Our guides were so smart and nice, and the program leaders always had everything under control. And all the things we were learning somehow connected to my classes, making everything click in a new way. Honestly, if you’re even thinking about doing a trip like this. Just do it. You’ll be a completely different person in the best way.
Bennie C.
High School Student
Greenfield, TN
This trip was perfect. Getting ready with the paperwork was a little stressful, but once that was finished all I had to do was go. Getting their was smooth with no problems and were given a good amount free time and freedom to go where we want, while also being safe and accountable as to where we were. Getting to try the food and experience the culture was the best part. All the locals there were so kind and I didn't feel like we were just tourists getting in the way. I would love to go on another gcac trip!
Jon Shepherd
Spanish Teacher
Greenfield High School
I have been working with Bethel University Global Studies Program as an educator/chaperone since 2016 and the programs they offer have never disappointed. They are always well planned and packed full of the best educational opportunities and travel experiences. This year's program to Merida, Mexico was no exception. My students thoroughly enjoyed the interactions with the locals, visiting ancient archaeological sites, dining at traditional Mexican restaurants, swimming in pristine cenotes, and spending a wonderful afternoon at the beach. On top of all this, my students were able to earn college credit while experiencing all the wonders that Mexico has to offer. Bethel Global Studies has always gone above and beyond to ensure that my students and I have always had the best experiences abroad. They are the best program by far I have ever traveled with, and I would recommend them to any student, educator, or thrill seeker that wants to experience a life changing trip that checks all the boxes.