Westminster’s international program would not be where it is today without the amazing dedication and leadership of Karen Bowman, Global Education Coordinator. Since August of 2015, Bowman has been working hard and improving the international department. As a mom of 3, Bowman was anxious to get out of the house and get a part-time job while her kids are at school. Bowman took her love for education and culture and found a job she is passionate about in WCA’s own international department.

Previously, Bowman has spent many years abroad working in the mission field. Her experiences overseas fostered a love and passion for broken and hurting nations, and the desire to bring the gospel to all corners of the earth. Bowman’s job involves a lot of hands on interaction with the international student and their various nations. She has learned so much about other cultures through this position, and she sees it as an opportunity to spread the gospel across the globe.

“Before moving to the St Louis area, my family had served on the mission field for approximately 4 years.  During that time, my eyes were opened to all the wonderful peoples and cultures that are a part of this world.  My heart was broken for the nation.  I view this job as an opportunity to live the Gospel out in front of kids that will then have the opportunity take Gospel to parts of the world that I may never get to experience.  This job became my new mission field.  Plus, I am learning just how amazing high school students are!” said Bowman.

As the Global Education Coordinator Bowman is able to work individually with the international students, and foster relationships with them while assisting them in their school work. Along with working side by side in America with the students, this job has given Bowman the unique opportunity to travel all over the globe with other students and faculty.

“I have the privilege of working with our international students every day, helping them with homework, tests, and adjusting to life in the US.  I also have the privilege of working with the students who choose to participate in the Study Abroad Program.  Since beginning this job, I have been able to travel with 12 WCA teachers, 63 WCA students, and 2 WCA alumni to Spain, South Korea, and China as well as assist in planning the trip to France for 25 students and 2 teachers,” said Bowman.

The biggest part of Bowman’s job is attracting more international students to the school. She presents to prospective families the benefits of the international program, and she is always working hard to improve the program. Along with international students benefiting, American WCA students can also learn a lot from the international students.

“The opportunity for these students to come to Westminster is one that benefits not only them, but also everyone at WCA.  These students are given the opportunity to study in English which gives them more educational choices for the future.  Their presence in our school also benefits other WCA students as these students by exposing them to cultures and languages that are not our own.   It gives the whole school a small glimpse of the wonderfully diverse world that our God created,” said Bowman.

Bowman has made countless sacrifices to continue this job full-time. She spends much of the summer abroad, and engages with international students outside of school to help them adjust to American life. Working at WCA has taught her how to manage her time and let God take control.

“I have learned that each day is a new day.   This job has stretched me in a new way as it has gone from part-time to full-time and I’ve learned to balance my roles and responsibilities as wife & mom with those of this job while continuing to serve in our church. My life is very busy, but I am learning to face each day with excitement as I wait to see what God is going to do in it,” said Bowman.

However, the most meaningful part of her job is the students. She loves watching them grow and go through different experiences throughout high school. She is also able to form relationships with students she might never otherwise encounter through the summer abroad programs.

“I watch these international students face all the challenges that life here throws at them and just keep going. I watch them grow academically and in their faith.  I also love being able to travel with all the WCA students in the summer and watch them step out of their comfort zones and serve others.  Every trip, I am amazed by how awesome WCA students are!  It’s a joy to be a part of WCA’s International Program,” said Bowman.

She looks forward to a bright future of the WCA international program, and many more trips overseas with new groups of WCA students.