This fall, the MV World Odyssey is sailing on a new chapter of global learning and connection. Guiding the journey is the Voyage Leadership Team (VoLT)—a group of dedicated leaders supporting voyagers as they learn, explore, and grow throughout the semester.
Executive Dean: Lisa Bardill Moscaritolo
Lisa returns for her fourth Semester at Sea voyage, bringing a wealth of leadership experience from universities across the United States and abroad. A professor at Purdue University Global and the Secretary-General of the International Association of Student Affairs and Services (IASAS), she has spent decades shaping student affairs programs that foster inclusion and meaningful engagement. Lisa is passionate about creating transformative student experiences that bridge cultures and continents, helping young adults discover new perspectives on the world and themselves. Sailing with her husband, Joe, she is excited to once again immerse herself in shipboard life and collaborate closely with faculty, staff, and students.
“Our mission is for all voyagers to have the best experience they will never, ever forget.”
Academic Dean: Kelly Long
Kelly Long, emerita Vice Provost and Professor of History at Colorado State University, has devoted her career to advancing undergraduate education and supporting global scholarship. She has served in senior academic leadership roles and has extensive experience designing programs that inspire curiosity and critical thinking. After sailing on the Spring 2023 voyage, Kelly is thrilled to return to the MV World Odyssey, where she will guide the academic program and mentor faculty in blending rigorous scholarship with the hands-on exploration unique to Semester at Sea. Her deep appreciation for international education fuels her commitment to helping students connect their coursework with the cultures they encounter.
Dean of Student Life: Melissa Emerson
Melissa serves as University Ombuds at Colorado State University and brings more than a decade of experience in student support, conflict resolution, and community building. A Fall 2018 Semester at Sea alum, she knows firsthand the unique joys and challenges of life at sea. Melissa is dedicated to fostering an environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow—whether through programs that nurture mental health, initiatives that encourage cultural exchange, or everyday conversations that help voyagers find their place on board. Her understanding of shipboard dynamics and her commitment to inclusive communities make her a steady presence for students throughout the voyage.
Assistant Executive Dean: Julie Hurst
With a career spanning higher education, international education, and diversity and inclusion initiatives, Julie brings a truly global perspective to the ship. She has worked with universities and organizations around the world, helping students navigate the opportunities and complexities of cross-cultural learning. A Semester at Sea alum herself, Julie is thrilled to return to the MV World Odyssey and contribute to the vibrant academic and social environment on board. Her passion for connecting people and ideas drives her mission to help voyagers build meaningful relationships and see themselves as part of an interconnected world.
Academic Advisor/Registrar: Cassidy McLaren
Cassidy leads advising in Colorado State University’s Department of Psychology and has been guiding students in higher education since 2010. Known for her approachable style and dedication to student success, she helps learners balance ambition with well-being. Returning with her partner and children after sailing in Fall 2017, Cassidy is eager to support voyagers as they chart their own academic path at sea. She takes pride in helping students translate their shipboard learning into long-term goals, ensuring that every transcript reflects not only courses completed but also the growth and resilience developed on the voyage.
Assistant Dean of Student Life: Cory Owen
Cory has led student life and multicultural engagement at institutions including Texas A&M, Rice University, The Juilliard School, and Yale-NUS College in Singapore. Her career reflects a passion for fostering inclusive communities and helping students thrive in diverse settings. On board, Cory is excited to create programs and initiatives that encourage personal exploration, cultural understanding, and leadership development.
“I’m excited to work with students as they explore new boundaries and learn more about themselves and others.”
Field Director: Jess Dyrdahl
Jess has built her career around international and community engagement, with professional experiences that span higher education, global service projects, and intercultural programming. Having traveled to more than 70 countries, she brings a wealth of knowledge about immersive, hands-on learning. As Field Director, Jess curates in-port experiences that transform classroom concepts into lived adventures—whether through service projects, cultural excursions, or partnerships with local communities. Her goal is to help voyagers see every port as both a classroom and a catalyst for personal growth.
Care Team Director: Amanda Beirne
Amanda serves as Associate Dean of Student Support Services at Brown University and brings deep expertise in student care, wellness, and crisis response. A Fall 2022 voyage alum, she understands the unique rhythms of life at sea and the importance of a strong support network. Amanda is committed to helping voyagers navigate challenges with resilience, providing guidance and resources to ensure every member of the community feels heard and cared for. Her compassionate approach creates a foundation of trust that allows students to take full advantage of this transformative semester.
Follow Along the Voyage
With their collective experience and passion, this Voyage Leadership Team is actively guiding, mentoring, and inspiring the Fall 2025 community. Together, they are helping voyagers embrace the challenges and opportunities of life at sea and shaping a voyage that will be remembered long after the ship returns to port.
Stay connected for updates from the Fall 2025 Voyage as the journey of discovery continues!
