Marysville-Pilchuck students in Ryan Hauck's classroom often learn about the world's cultures from those who live in distant lands, thanks to Hauck's connections with the World Affairs Council of Seattle. Over the past several school years, visitors from Indonesia, Russia, eastern Europe and Nigeria have taken questions from his students about their respective culture, arts, politics and government.

"There's no restriction on what the students can ask," said Hauck. "Generally, the questions are thoughtful and respectful, and the answers are straightforward."

In recognition of his commitment to international understanding, Hauck was recently awarded the Phyllis Layton Perry Educator Award from the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV).

The award was established to recognize the achievements and accomplishments in hosting foreign leaders participating in the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program in classrooms. Hosting teachers, like Hauck, help orchestrate the visits of foreign leaders, scholars and international students while developing stimulating curriculum and classroom projects pertaining to international cultures.

"We're incredibly proud to honor Ryan's achievements, and delighted to have such an outstanding ambassador for the Council and the State of Washington," said Jennifer Thorvig, deputy director of the World Affairs Council's International Visitor Program. "Ryan's leadership, creativity, initiative and dedication to increasing global awareness exemplify the character and values of Phyllis Layton Perry, the award's namesake."

For Hauck, the visits are all about engagement and interaction.

"It's great to be able to facilitate these meetings," said Hauck. "The kids get to interact with interesting people from these countries and have an authentic conversation about important issues. My hope is that it will inspire them to take a deeper interest in world affairs and begin to understand the connectivity."

The social studies teacher's interests have developed into personal action, as he is actively involved in programs centered in the Niger Delta of Africa. He has helped build a school and library, and he returns to a particular poverty-stricken village, Oporoza, at least once a year to do what he can for the families who live there.

A few glimmers of hope are developing for the area, including the work of a non-government organization (NGO) that is developing a leadership institute to fill the current governmental void. Funding that is beginning to come in from the UN will provide vocational and literacy training for people in the oil-rich but job-poor area.

Thanks to the efforts of volunteers like Hauck, many of the rural Nigerian villages now have access to schools and libraries, complete with computers and Internet access.

Hauck has taught at M-P for 18 years, and he's as dedicated to his students' learning now as when he first became a teacher. To foster his own professional development, he has embarked on a master's program in International and Comparative Education with a focus on international development.

"Education is definitely a tool for economic development," said the citizen diplomat.

Hauck has been invited to attend the NCIV national meeting in mid-February, with travel and convention expenses for the Washington, D.C., event paid as part of his award. The official award presentation will take place at a full membership luncheon during the conference.

But his eyes light up when he talks about another trip he's planning-a return visit to the Nigerian village of Oporoza this spring. As usual, he'll be traveling with donated supplies, books and greetings from American students, and a personal dedication to making the world just a little better, one person at a time.