Georgia Southern’s “Travel with Purpose” program provides non-traditional, worldly approach to professional and personal development
Over the past year, the “Travel with Purpose” program hosted by Georgia Southern University’s Division of Continuing and Professional Education (CPE), has provided immersive educational travel experiences outside the traditional college experience, underscoring the importance of furthering education.
Director of Georgia Southern University’s Division of CPE, Deedee Southerlin, Ed.D., emphasizes that education goes beyond the typical classroom setting.
“Lifelong learning isn’t limited to earning degrees or certifications,” she said. “Some of the most valuable lessons come from experiencing new places, meeting new people, and seeing the world through a different lens. That’s what ‘Travel with Purpose’ is all about.”
In a diverse, fast-paced job market, the ability to provide invaluable, worldly insight continues to grow in demand. The CPE program offers learners a non-degree, skill-focused approach to education, enabling participants to expand their knowledge through immersive experiences.
“Our goal isn’t simply to take people on trips,” Southerlin said. “It’s to create educational experiences that encourage a lifetime of educational enrichment, foster curiosity and help participants see the world from new perspectives. Every “Travel with Purpose” program is designed with learning in mind.”
Locally, “Travel with Purpose” hosted history buffs on a day trip through Emanuel, Jenkins and Burke Counties guided by John Derden, Ph.D., professor emeritus of history at the East Georgia Campus. The excursion includes exploring historic roads once walked by soldiers and visiting Camp Lawton, the largest Civil War-era prison.
In December 2025, the program brought learners across state lines to experience the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, during the holiday season. Learners were given a private tour of the 250-room chateau and experienced a candlelit, holiday-themed dinner. The immersive atmosphere gave participants a chance to better understand the Vanderbilt family’s life within North Carolina’s history.
“Travel with Purpose” also gives learners the opportunity to gain cross-cultural experiences outside of the United States, fostering reflection and critical thinking.
In November 2025, a group of 20 travelers spent 11 days in Tuscany, Italy. This excursion included a private tour and wine tasting at the Lornano winery, as well as a private tour of the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in Florence. One of Europe’s most historically and culturally significant regions, Tuscany is best known as the “cradle of the Renaissance,” serving as the epicenter of historic and cultural significance.
For CPE, “Travel with Purpose” provides adult learners with study abroad experiences outside of the traditional degree path. Southerlin and her team also say that the experiences go beyond travel and education alone.
“We’ve seen participants build friendships, discover new interests and return home with a new excitement for learning,” she said. “As the program grows, we’re looking forward to expanding both domestic and international opportunities, so even more people can experience the value of lifelong learning beyond the classroom.”
As for what’s coming next, CPE’s “Travel With Purpose” program leadership is currently planning a visit to Seville, Spain, for March 10-20, 2027, and a return trip to Tuscany in 2028.
The “Travel with Purpose” program in Seville is currently open for registration. Additionally, all “Travel With Purpose” programs are designed with comfort and accessibility in mind, meaning that travelers of all backgrounds are welcome.