The USDLA Global Presence
Founded in 1987, the US Distance Learning Association is the world’s oldest non-profit organization promoting all aspects of distance learning. While based in the United States, the essence of distance is to look beyond political boundaries and geographic barriers. Not surprising, then, that at any given time, from 5 to 10 percent of our members come from outside the US. So, all are welcome and, in fact, as this number grows we hope to tailor some special member benefits to global colleagues joining the Association.
Welcome to our USDLA Global Information Area
Within our framework we manage our partnership with like organization worldwide. USDLA strongly believes in the value of keeping a pulse on distance learning globally while providing value to our members through global partnerships. Below you will find information on some of our global partners. It is our goal to provide ample opportunities for highlighting global online and distance learning best practices and for networking with colleagues worldwide.
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Global Partnership Committee

Europe
European Distance and Elearning Network (EDEN)
European Distance and Elearning Network (EDEN) is a professional community of experts and practitioners of electronic distance education representing 55 countries and over 430 institutions from Europe and other continents. USDLA and EDEN have partnered to expand the network of professionals worldwide to share knowledge and expertise while growing collaborative opportunities.
Dr. Andras Szucs
H-1111 Budapest, Egry J. u. 1, Hungary
Secretariat General
Tel: +36 1 463 1628, 463 2259
Budapest University of Technology and Economics
http://www.eden-online.org
Join USDLA and EDEN as we celebrate National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) and the European Distance Learning Week featuring joint webinars the second week of November.

Brazil
Brazilian Association for Distance Education (ABED)
The Brazilian Association for Distance Education (ABED), is a non-profit society, which, since 1995 has promoted the diffusion of open, flexible and distance education. It was founded by a group of academics interested in distance education and new learning technologies.
President
Fred Litto
+55-11-3275-3561
mobile: +55-11-99330-1241
Executive Secretary
Beatriz Roma Marthos
+55-11-3062-6855

Global
International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE)
The International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE) is a leading global membership organization for open, distance, flexible and online education, including e-learning, and draws its membership from institutions, educational authorities, commercial actors, and individuals.
ICDE has consultative partner status with UNESCO and shares UNESCO’s key value – the universal right to education for all.
Torunn Gjelsvik
Secretary General
+47 404 32 397
gjelsvik@icde.org
Email: icde@icde.org
www.icde.org
Numerous USDLA members currently extend their reach globally through distance, online and blended learning. Others are exploring ways to expand internationally and find great benefit from the networking afforded through our USDLA global relationships. Join USDLA to maximize opportunities and extend your reach.
Benefits of Being A Global Partner
For more information on a global partner or to become a global partner please contact Global Partnership Committee Farah Bennani at fbennani@usdla.org.
- Distance Learning Magazine- Publication opportunities in global column in bi-monthly magazine
- Annual subscription to Distance Learning Magazine for Global Partner (GP) headquarters location
- Publication opportunities in USDLA and EDEN Newsletters
- Reduced attendee fees for USDLA conference and events
- Invitation to participate in USDLA Annual Distance Learning Awards and International Awards Competition
- Posting of member organizations (not individuals) from GP country of origin
- Networking opportunities for all GP members with USDLA affiliates including USDLA domestic State Chapters
- Webinar opportunities featuring leaders from both the USDLA and GP member organizations
- Opportunities for USDLA participation in GP events with reciprocity
- GPC placement for news items for publication in USDLA News Alert