2025 Women's History Month Yvonne

MEET YVONNE:

A JOURNEY IN INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION

HAPPY WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

YVONNE DUNHAM SLOBODENKO ESL INSTITUTE DIRECTOR CENTER FOR GLOBAL EDUCATION

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ABOUT YVONNE I have a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in teaching English to speakers of other languages, both from Kent State University. I started as an adjunct instructor teaching English language class at UTC in 2014 and transitioned into a fulltime role at the ESL Institute in 2019.

WHY INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION?

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My interest in international education began with my own experiences traveling and living abroad in high school and college.

During my undergraduate studies, I worked as a student assistant in the English language program at my university, and I really enjoyed it.

That experience led me to pursue a master’s degree in the field, and I’ve loved the work ever since.

What I enjoy most about working at the ESL Institute is helping students achieve their language goals and grow their confidence.

INSPIRED

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I recently had a baby girl, and we named her after her grandmothers and greatgrandmothers—women who have deeply inspired me. Each of them, in their way, demonstrated an incredible work ethic and an unwavering commitment to caring for others.

Despite facing different struggles and living in different places, they all serve as powerful examples of staying true to your values and prioritizing the people you love.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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Some of the most meaningful moments come when I can support a student working hard but facing a challenge they can’t overcome on their own. Whether it’s a language barrier, an academic struggle, or a personal obstacle, being able to help remove that barrier—so they can move forward and succeed—is incredibly rewarding.

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ADVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Find something you love to do and challenge yourself to work harder than you think you can.

Growth often happens just beyond your comfort zone.

THANK YOU, YVONNE! A HUGE THANK YOU TO YVONNE, OUR DEDICATED ESL DIRECTOR, FOR HER INCREDIBLE LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT. HER HARD WORK, PASSION FOR EDUCATION, AND DEDICATION TO CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS TO SUCCEED MAKE A TREMENDOUS IMPACT EVERY DAY!

Dr. Takeo Suzuki Executive Director UTC Center for Global Education

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