Our Executive Leadership

For David and Alan Young, exposure to cultural exchange at an early age fueled their lifelong passion for international education. The VIF Program is the brainchild of their family, and the brothers lead the pioneering teacher-exchange program that opens students' eyes to the world beyond their borders.

"Our mission today is the same as it was in the very beginning," said David, VIF's Chief Executive Officer. "We believe that international experience and cultural exchange are an essential part of education today. Students need to be exposed to other cultures at an early age, and teachers must be able to present a global perspective to students. Hosting or serving as an international teacher accomplishes both of these goals and is more important now than ever."

As the sons of Dr. J. Fred Young – a longtime president of Elon University in North Carolina, USA – David and Alan early on learned the value of cultural exchange through their interactions with international visitors on campus. As college students, both studied overseas. And as professionals, both have worked internationally and traveled the globe in their efforts to promote international education.

"It's hard to overstate the positive influence that intercultural education has on people's lives," said Alan, VIF's Co-Founder and Director. "By understanding different cultures and appreciating different ways of viewing the world, we not only learn about others but also about ourselves. Cultural exchange expands horizons and makes the world more of a community."

Since founding VIF in 1987, the Youngs have assembled a strong team of education professionals who are dedicated to ensuring that participation in the Program is a rewarding and successful experience for teachers, students and host schools. Through VIF, thousands of teachers from around the globe have positively influenced the lives of more than one million students, educators and community members.

Read more about David Young
Read more about Alan Young