About Us

Mission

Our mission is to play an essential role in the education and exposure of the next generation of professionals by creating study abroad experiences for primarily in art-focused industries. Partnership is central to our mission. Providing experiences and opportunities for the next generation is a worthy vision that can only be realized by working with other organizations and academic institutions with the same purpose and vision.


Values

At SAFA, we are guided by the following principles:

  • We operate with integrity, transparency and accountability.
  • We have a commitment to innovation.
  • We form partnerships based on trust and reliability.
  • We incorporate professionalism in all we do.
  • Our program participants are priority number 1.

We strive for high standards of excellence and professionalism in everything we do. We must be disciplined, focused and strategic in our efforts in order to create the greatest possible experiences for those we serve.

Meet the Team

The staff here at SAFA are dedicated to global education and cultural exchange. Our highly passionate and mission-focused team believes that the world is better when people try to understand one another. We are committed to introducing people to new places and cultures and help turn dreams into opportunities for people of all ages and nationalities.

Board Chair & Special Advisor
Name Email
Gary Cobb


Executive Director
Name Email
Chika Takai


Director of Operations & Finance
Name Email
Mike Gregory


General Counsel
Name Email
Jason Aufdermaur


Program Manager
Name Email
Demarcus Carrol


Student Affairs & Enrollment Manager
Name Email
Shaun Sutton