Elizabeth Huson, Distance Learning Specialist at Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, has been awarded the New York Visionary Technology Leader Award from ClassLink and The New York State Association for Computers and Technologies in Education (NYSCATE).
Huson was honored for designing and leading Global Conversations, a groundbreaking international program that launched in 2024. The initiative brings together high school students from across the globe, including the United States, Ukraine, Poland, Brazil, Croatia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Nigeria, and Uganda, for monthly Zoom sessions.
Each session features student-driven presentations highlighting their culture, history, and daily life, as well as discussions around a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal assigned to their class. Using video-conference technology and guided by their curiosity, students ask questions, exchange perspectives, and learn how global challenges connect to their local experiences.
“Elizabeth’s leadership through E2CCBs Global Conversations program reflects the best of what we strive for at E2CCB; student-centered, innovative, and globally minded learning opportunities,” said Melissa Rivers, Director of Instructional Support Services. “This recognition is well deserved, and we are proud to see her work celebrated at the state level. This work is at the forefront of preparing our students to meet the goals of New York’s Portrait of a Graduate to build global citizens.”
The program was a resounding success in its first year and continues to expand in 2025, offering more opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful, cross-cultural dialogue. Global Conversations has also earned recognition beyond New York, with a partner school winning first place at the international EDUCday competition in Brazil for their work on the project.
“Liz has an incredible ability to design programs that give students authentic voice and choice while connecting them to the wider world,” said Bryan Olson, Distance Learning Coordinator. “Global Conversations is a model for how distance learning can inspire curiosity, empathy, and collaboration across borders.”
In addition to her leadership of Global Conversations, Huson is an active member of the NYS Distance Learning Consortium and the Global Video Conferencing Education Group. Throughout her career—from classroom teacher to her current role—she has been passionate about student choice and unique learning experiences that extend beyond classroom walls, spark imagination, and open doors to new possibilities.
“This experience showed how technology can break down barriers and help students see their shared humanity. I’m honored by this recognition and excited to continue expanding opportunities for global collaboration,” Huson said.
Her work reflects the mission of E2CCB Distance Learning to connect students and educators with innovative, equitable, and secure educational experiences.
