Join in this episode as we dive deep into the intertwined voyages of the Hellwig-Olson family. Led by former home office member, Annie Rappaport: Dr. Beth Hellwig (former Executive Dean), Ryan Ubuntu, and Sarah recount their transformative experiences onboard and their cherished memories with Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Dr. Beth Helwig's journey with Semester at Sea began in Spring 2007 when she served as the Director of Student Life. During this voyage, the ship was graced by the presence of Desmond Tutu for its entirety, making it an unforgettable experience. She later undertook roles as the Dean of Students in Summer 2011, shadowed the Executive Dean in Fall 2013, and took on the esteemed role of Executive Dean during the MV World Odyssey’s inaugural voyage with SAS in Fall 2015. She has recently taken on the role of Interim Vice President at the California State University Maritime Academy.
A three-time Semester at Sea alum, Ryan has traveled to over 60 countries, working towards improving the human condition. His roles have led him to collaborate with a multitude of international institutions, governments, and human rights advocates. Currently, he holds the position of Global Manager for Diversity, Equity, Engagement, and Inclusion at Development Associates International. He credits his time on Semester at Sea as the catalyst for his fervor in global development.
Sarah's journey began as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student to Bolivia and continued with studies in Florence, Italy. Her bond with Semester at Sea is evident, having sailed on two voyages as a staff member. Currently, she serves the Office of Global Engagement as the Director of Global Partnerships at NC State, where she brings a strategic vision to global partnerships. Her recent accomplishment includes an International Education Administrator Fulbright award in Germany. Together, these three individuals exemplify the transformative power of international education, each in their unique way.
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!