Hi, I’m Thomas Shandorf, an international education leader with a lifelong passion for building bridges across cultures through language. With over 30 years in the industry, I’ve dedicated my career to making English language education accessible, effective, and transformative.I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Bennington College, which laid the foundation for my journey in education. My academic background ignited my belief in the power of language to connect people and foster understanding.As the Owner and Managing Director of The American Language Center of Florence and Via Lingua International, I lead with purpose and vision. At these institutions, we:• 💠 Empower learners• 💠 Provide tailored programs• 💠 Offer accredited TEFL courses• 💠 Facilitate global job placements• 💠 Drive educational excellenceThe American Language Center, founded in 1959, is Tuscany’s largest American English language school, and it’s my honor to uphold its legacy of excellence. Via Lingua International, with its presence in 15 countries, is a world leader in TEFL certification, offering unmatched training and support for aspiring educators.In my role as Executive Director, Europe, for iTEP International, I’m at the forefront of innovation in English proficiency testing. Here, my focus is on:• 💠 User-friendly testing• 💠 Fast, detailed score reports• 💠 Meeting diverse needs• 💠 Supporting educators• 💠 Expanding global reachITEP’s suite of tests is designed to cater to a wide range of sectors, from academia to business, ensuring that every stakeholder can assess English proficiency accurately and efficiently. Our exams are trusted by universities, schools, and corporations worldwide.My professional journey also includes key roles with ELS Language Centers, where I managed operations, sales, and curriculum development across multiple U.S. locations. My work in this capacity allowed me to:• 💠 Expand language programs• 💠 Develop new curricula• 💠 Build international partnerships• 💠 Enhance quality standards• 💠 Lead global sales teamsInternational education isn’t just a job—it’s my mission. I’m committed to fostering global understanding, creating inclusive learning environments, and driving innovation in language education. Every day, I strive to make a positive impact on students, educators, and institutions, helping them achieve their goals and thrive in an interconnected world.