Joy Donnelly reflects on leadership, international education, and her journey to founding the Joy Worldwide scholarship award
In honor of Women’s History Month, University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) is highlighting several prominent women in leadership within the field of international education. Joy Donnelly is the founder of Joy Worldwide Inc., a nonprofit organization which provides education, advocacy, and scholarship programs for underrepresented undergraduate students pursuing study abroad opportunities.
Alyssa Nota, USAC President and CEO, reached out to Joy to share about her experience as a woman in leadership, how her organization works to make study abroad inclusive for underrepresented students, and her vision for Joy Worldwide.
In 2025, USAC partnered with Joy Worldwide to help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing international education. Through this collaboration, USAC will match scholarships up to $500 for students participating in any USAC program.
What motivated you to become the leader of your organization?
Studying abroad changed the trajectory of my life. As an African American woman, it opened my eyes to other cultures while deepening my appreciation for my own. When I returned to the U.S., I knew I wanted other underrepresented students to have the same opportunity. Founding Joy Worldwide gave me the chance to dismantle those barriers and create more pathways for students to have transformative global experiences.
What is one challenge you have faced as a female leader and how did you address or overcome it?
Many gatekeepers in this industry are established and mature men, and, at first, that brought on some imposter syndrome. I overcame it through repetition: continually having conversations, learning, and sharing my passion. I found I bring a unique and valuable perspective, and most people I encountered were eager to help. This industry has been one of the most welcoming I’ve ever experienced.
What is one area or goal you think the field of international education will need to work on in the next year?
The field needs to better sell its importance as higher education undergoes a massive transformation. With AI and emerging technology pushing higher ed toward an inflection point, international education is uniquely positioned to equip students with the skills they’ll need for the future. This is a huge opportunity we can’t afford to miss.
How can women in professional leadership roles support one another (in any field)? Do you have an example of someone who supported you in your professional journey?
Women can support each other by investing in relationships over the long term. My study abroad advisor at Missouri State, Ashley Neyer, was incredibly supportive when I was an undergrad. Years later, she reconnected to offer her support for Joy Worldwide — she’s now on our board of advisors and is instrumental in making connections and shaping strategy. From big gestures to small ones, showing up consistently makes a huge difference.
What is the most important value to you as a woman in leadership?
Vision. As a woman, I’ve sometimes held back my boldest ideas out of fear of seeming too audacious. I’ve learned that true leadership means having the courage to be bold anyway. My vision is that every student who wants to study abroad has the ability to do so — no barriers.That vision is my north star, driving every program and resource we create at Joy Worldwide.
Why is working in the field of international education meaningful, in your words?
At Joy Worldwide, we believe studying abroad has the power to transform how students understand healthy lifestyles, family structures, financial literacy, political involvement, and sustainability. Every student we support is a seed sown into communities that foster understanding, creative problem-solving, and positive change. There are few fields where your work creates an impact on a truly global scale.
About Joy
Joy is the founder and Executive Director of Joy Worldwide Inc. She is a manager at American Express Global Business Travel and has worked in the travel industry for over eight years. Her first international educational experience was studying abroad for a semester at the Universitá Cattolica in Milan, Italy. She then went on to complete her MBA at IAE Gustave Eiffel business school in Paris, France. She now resides in New York City.
About Joy Worldwide
Joy Worldwide Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation that provides education, advocacy, and scholarship programs for underrepresented undergraduate students pursuing study abroad opportunities. The organization strives for equitable access to global learning for all students, regardless of background, and increases access to international experiences by working to remove the financial, cultural, and systemic barriers that prevent underrepresented students from studying abroad. Joy Worldwide’s belief in and commitment to the transformative power of study abroad creates pathways for students to gain a global perspective, build leadership skills, and return home empowered to serve their communities.
