1Q Journal - Special Interview

You have had a long, successful career in international education. Can you share with us your journey that led you to Dwight Seoul?

My professional journey began in 1991 in inner-city Los Angeles, where my first teaching role shaped my passion for education and my belief that all children can learn in any environment. After five years, I caught the “international bug” and joined Seoul Foreign School (SFS), where I spent 21 transformative years in roles ranging from teaching and coaching to principalship and operational leadership. Working alongside extraordinary educators, including my mentor Dr. Harlan Lyso, profoundly influenced my leadership approach with his example of respect, compassion, and integrity.

After two decades at SFS, my family and I moved to Singapore, where I served as a middle and high school principal at International Community School. I gained valuable insights into Singapore’s international educational landscape and celebrated my son’s graduation from Singapore American School. Upon returning to Korea, I joined Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS). After three years and my daughter’s graduation, we embraced a new chapter. Following a sabbatical, I joined Dwight Seoul.

Dwight’s mission to “ignite the spark of genius in every child” resonates deeply with my belief that children thrive in diverse, inclusive, and relationship-driven settings. Building meaningful relationships has always been central to my work, as they lay the foundation for trust, growth, and success. One of my first priorities at Dwight was engaging with the senior class (Grade 12) through an open dialogue, allowing them to get to know me as their new principal and fostering a sense of connection.

Joining Dwight Seoul is a chance to live out my belief that every child has unique potential waiting to be discovered. I am committed to creating an environment where students and teachers feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. It is a privilege to grow alongside such a remarkable community of students, educators, and families, and I look forward to continuing this meaningful journey, one relationship at a time.

My decision to pursue a doctorate in education while raising young children and working full-time was motivated by a desire to distinguish myself, deepen my expertise, and prepare for leadership roles. Inspired by Sheryl Sandberg’s advice to “lean in,״ I actively sought challenging opportunities that demanded effort and determination to transform obstacles into successes. Despite this preparation, I was sometimes passed over for leadership positions by less qualified individuals— a reality many women in leadership understand. This reflection is not a complaint but an acknowledgment of the systemic barriers that persist.

As a Korean American woman, I continue to navigate the complexities of cultural expectations and the intersection of gender, race and ethnicity. These experiences deepen my commitment to breaking down barriers for the next generation of women leaders. I am passionate about empowering young women to envision themselves in roles of influence and impact. Informal breakfasts and brunches often become platforms for meaningful, thought-provoking conversations—rich with laughter, camaraderie, and mutual inspiration.

Being a woman in leadership has offered opportunities to lead with empathy, compassion, collaboration, and inclusivity. Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, garnered international acclaim for her calm, collected, and empathetic leadership during her country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her focus on building strong partnerships, fostering clear communication, and staying true to her core values exemplifies the impact of values-driven leadership.

I am deeply committed to mentorship and allyship, understanding the importance of learning from others while supporting and empowering future leaders. Leading with authenticity, while adapting to diverse cultural contexts, is essential for overcoming barriers and creating meaningful and lasting impact.

Ultimately, I see these challenges and opportunities as part of a larger mission to foster a more inclusive and equitable landscape in international education. As a leader, I aim to inspire other women to bring their unique voices and perspectives to the forefront, contributing to a stronger and more diverse future for our global community. When representation of ideas, philosophies, and genders is imbalanced, potential remains untapped. Striving mindfully for balance, equity, and harmony ensures that international education cultivates the best in future leaders.

What advice would you give to young women pursuing careers in educational leadership in international education?

First, I want to commend young women pursuing careers in educational leadership. It is a rewarding and impactful field where diverse perspectives and voices are deeply needed. Your journey holds the potential to shape the lives of countless students and transform educational systems worldwide.

One key realization to embrace is the unwavering belief that your voice and perspective matter. Your experiences and insights have the power to create meaningful change. Do not let self-doubt or the noises of external biases diminish your confidence. Strive for a balance of self-assurance and humility—both are essential for authentic and impactful leadership.

Then, commit fiercely to lifelong learning. Educational leadership is constantly evolving, and equipping yourself with the knowledge and skills to meet its challenges is crucial. Resilience is equally important. Setbacks and doubt are inevitable, but every challenge is an opportunity for growth.

Next, surround yourself with mentors, allies, and a supportive network. Seek guidance from leaders you admire and remain open to learning from their experiences. Building relationships and collaborating with others helps navigate challenges and amplifies your impact. Networking remains one of the most valuable pathways to opportunities and growth.

Finally, lead authentically and stay true to your values. People are drawn to leaders who are genuine, empathetic, and inclusive. Create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.

How do international schools, like Dwight Seoul, contribute to attracting investment to Korea and supporting the expat community, and what improvements would you recommend to enhance the expat experience in Korea?

International schools play a pivotal role in attracting foreign investment to Korea by providing highquality education tailored to the needs of globally mobile families. For multinational corporations and foreign investors, access to reputable international schools is often a key factor in deciding to relocate or establish operations in a new country. A strong network of international schools creates a supportive infrastructure that helps expatriate employees transition seamlessly, ensuring their children receive a world-class education without disruption. This support significantly enhances Korea’s appeal as a destination for global talent and investment.

At Dwight Seoul, we contribute to this ecosystem by providing a globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum that ensures academic consistency and rigor for students transitioning between international schools. Our commitment to individualized learning and fostering global citizenship prepares students to excel in any environment. We prioritize student well-being through initiatives such as SPARK (Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Physical Wellbeing, Agency & Action, Respect & Responsibility, and Knowledge), BJEDI (Belonging, Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion), and our Mindfulness Program, which emphasize self-awareness, meditative reflection, and restorative practices, offering a holistic support system for our students.

To bring our parent community and the broader expatriate community together, we host a variety of events designed to build connections and encourage collaboration. For instance, Dwight Diplomatic Night invites members of the diplomatic community to network in an informal dinner setting. Dwight Business Community Night provides a platform for expatriate business professionals to showcase their businesses and services to our parent community. Additionally, Dwight Parent Night offers an evening of food and fellowship where parents can mingle with faculty and leadership in a relaxed atmosphere. Beyond these signature events, our Monthly Parent Workshop Sessions address topics that support the learning, well-being, and success of expatriate students and their families. These initiatives make Dwight Seoul a vibrant hub for connection, collaboration, and community-building among expats.

To bring our parent community and the broader expatriate community together, we host a variety of events designed to build connections and encourage collaboration. For instance, Dwight Diplomatic Night invites members of the diplomatic community to network in an informal dinner setting. Dwight Business Community Night provides a platform for expatriate business professionals to showcase their businesses and services to our parent community. Additionally, Dwight Parent Night offers an evening of food and fellowship where parents can mingle with faculty and leadership in a relaxed atmosphere. Beyond these signature events, our Monthly Parent Workshop Sessions address topics that support the learning, well-being, and success of expatriate students and their families. These initiatives make Dwight Seoul a vibrant hub for connection, collaboration, and community-building among expats.

While Korea has made significant strides in creating a welcoming environment for expats, there is still room for improvement. Expanding access to English-language services in healthcare, legal, and government sectors would address a common challenge. Language barriers can make navigating essential services difficult, and more bilingual resources or interpreters could alleviate this.

Additionally, promoting cultural integration programs that connect expats with local communities would foster mutual understanding and stronger bonds. Partnerships between schools, community organizations, and government agencies could facilitate cultural exchange, volunteerism, and collaboration. Streamlining visa processes and providing greater clarity around regulations, particularly in employment and entrepreneurship, would also position Korea as an even more attractive destination for global talent.

At Dwight Seoul, we are privileged to support the expat community and help families thrive. By working together—schools, local communities, and government agencies—we can enhance the quality of life for expats while celebrating the diversity they bring. As a Korean American, I am proud to bridge two powerhouse cultures and contribute to the growth and development of the international expatriate community. Looking ahead, I would welcome the opportunity to partner with the Ministry of Education to further enhance and elevate Korea’s already successful educational programs that cultivate leaders with a global perspective and influence.

Reflecting on your career, from being a teacher to an upper school principal, what have been the most rewarding aspects of your journey in education?

Coming from a family of educators and academics, education has always been a deeply personal and fulfilling journey for me. As a teacher, one of the most rewarding experiences was witnessing those “aha moments” when students grasped a challenging concept or made meaningful connections between their learning and their lives. Building relationships with students, helping them discover their passions, and watching them grow into confident, capable adults continues to bring me immense fulfillment. Seeing them graduate, take on leadership roles, and return to share their achievements is a constant reminder of why I do this work.

Transitioning into leadership roles, such as Upper School Principal, has allowed me to broaden my impact beyond the classroom. It is a privilege to support and mentor teachers, cultivating a culture of collaboration and innovation within the school. Witnessing teachers grow and excel has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.

Ultimately, the most fulfilling aspect of my career has been contributing to the journeys of countless students and educators. In every role I have held, whether in the classroom, admissions, HR, counseling, or as a principal, I am constantly reminded of the transformative power of teaching and learning. These experiences fuel my commitment to personal growth, lifelong learning, and making meaningful contributions to the field of international education. I remain dedicated to empowering all our students to soar to new heights, welcoming the challenges of today and the boundless possibilities of tomorrow.