Dr. Don DeGraaf is the former senior director of educational programs at the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) and is a Fulbright Scholar at the Universitas Pelita Harapan in Tangerang, Indonesia, where he is teaching and presenting on experiential education. Prior to his work in higher education, Don served as a US Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines and worked in Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong. These early professional experiences contributed to his passion for international education and global engagement.

Don began his teaching career over 35 years ago and has taught at the University of Oregon, Longwood College, University of Northern Iowa, and Calvin University. Don has also administered study abroad programs, partnering with colleagues and visiting students worldwide, including programs in Norway, Honduras, Peru, Spain, China, the Netherlands, England, and Hungary. In addition to his teaching and administrative roles, he has led experiential learning experiences for college students worldwide.

Throughout his academic career, Don has focused on experiential education, non-profit management, youth development, and leisure and life satisfaction. He has co-authored thirteen textbooks and nearly 100 articles related to these scholarly interests. His latest book, “There and Back: Living and Learning Abroad,” examines the study abroad experience through the lens of faith. He and his wife, Kathy, enjoy kayaking, cycling, traveling, reading, and hanging out with their family, which includes a son, daughter, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren. They look forward to experiencing the beauty of the people and cultures of Indonesia as we learn and share.