Russ Alexander brings over three decades of hands-on experience in international education and program development to Hop Education Abroad. As Chief Exploration Officer, he leads with a deep understanding of the study abroad landscape, drawing from a career that spans roles at major Australian institutions like the University of New South Wales and Macquarie University and at study abroad providers, The Education Abroad Network and WorldStrides. Russ has been instrumental in launching a wide range of innovative programs, including the first study abroad experience for U.S. student-athletes in partnership with the Australian Olympic Institutes. He’s also led the expansion of study abroad opportunities for TEAN into Asia, establishing partnerships in countries like China, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam. His commitment to inclusivity and sustainability has driven him to introduce diversity initiatives and social responsibility into many of the programs he’s helped build. Russ’s career has always been about creating meaningful, real-world experiences for students, and at Hop, he’s continuing to push boundaries, ensuring that every program is as enriching as it is adventurous. When he’s not developing new global opportunities, Russ enjoys personal travel (over 85 countries and counting), great food and spending time with his partner and rescue pup.

Chris Shepherd is an experienced leader in international education and innovative industries. As co-founder of The Education Abroad Network (TEAN), Chris spent over twenty years transforming TEAN into one of the leading education abroad organizations, providing impactful global experiences for U.S. university students in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Under his leadership, TEAN became a trusted partner for universities and individual students before its sale to WorldStrides in 2018. Today, Chris continues to lead in various sectors. He serves on the boards of companies that specialize in advanced coatings and exterior graphics for the recreational vehicle and commercial truck markets. He also manages investments in technology, real estate, education, and transportation. A true globetrotter, Chris’s passion for travel extends to his family—his wife and four daughters have all traveled extensively and are now embarking on educational adventures abroad. When he’s not leading businesses or exploring new destinations, Chris enjoys spending time with his family, including their two chocolate labs and a Siberian cat. From launching innovative study abroad programs to pioneering new technologies, Chris’s career reflects his ability to inspire, lead, and innovate across multiple fields.

Molly's passion for countries and cultures started at a very young age when she first saw the Cyrillic alphabet. At that moment, she decided that she was going to learn Russian and travel to the Soviet Union. After graduating from The University of Texas at Austin, she moved to Ukraine and Russia to work. She entered the world of international education in 2003 and has loved helping students pursue their dreams to study abroad. She enjoys working with faculty, study abroad colleagues and students. For the past five years, Molly was a Director for The School or Russian & Asian Studies (SRAS) supporting students studying Russian in the Post-Soviet space. Before SRAS, Molly worked for The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) for over five years and is thrilled to be working with her former TEAN colleagues in making the transition to Hop. Outside of international education, Molly loves spending time with her husband and children and understands that being a wife and mother is her top priority. She also love to run, swim and do yoga but you will always find her studying Russian. She still carries around a tattered Russian/English dictionary in her backpack at all times. Let us help your students to Hop to their dream country and program and they will have an amazing experience!

Adamson Novak is a Chicago-based director, producer, and creative, passionate about bringing authentic stories to life on screen. A recent graduate of DePaul University with a degree in Film and Television Production, concentrating in Directing, Adamson channels his vision into every project, crafting narratives that resonate with pride. Adamson’s work has earned recognition at film festivals across the United States. His creative journey extends beyond film, as he also freelances as a video director and projection designer in the theater world, blending his love for visual storytelling across mediums. When he’s not behind the camera, Adamson is a Broadway enthusiast, coffee shop explorer, and an avid traveler, always seeking new inspiration in every corner of the world. He’s thrilled to be part of the Hop team, eager to tell the incredible stories of our students hopping abroad!

Nick has been country hopping since he was in high school and took a class trip to Italy. Since then, he’s traveled to over 20 countries and participated in two study abroad semesters in Rome and Vienna during college. For over a decade, Nick has been helping students and parents prepare for overseas travel on short term and semester long programs. He’s certified in DEIA best practices and is passionate about all students having access to international travel. Outside of international education, Nick can be found at local Chicago concert halls, making rug art in his apartment, and raising his infant son, August. He’s thrilled to help you or your student get overseas!

Bella-Jayne Stevens is a true Gold Coast local, born and bred by the beach. With a passion for surfing, hiking, and all things outdoors, Bella-Jayne is always up for an adventure and loves exploring new experiences. Her love for adventure is infectious, and when she’s not chasing waves or trekking through nature, you’ll find her working as a dedicated nurse, where her caring nature truly shines. She finds joy in helping and looking after people, bringing a warm and compassionate approach to everything she does. Bella-Jayne is beyond excited to show students from all over the world just how beautiful Australia is. She’s ready to share her favourite spots, introduce you to the incredible Aussie lifestyle, and guide you through all the amazing things to see and do. With her bubbly personality and adventurous spirit, you’re sure to feel welcomed and inspired every step of the way!

Meet Kora, Hop’s beloved office dog and resident morale booster. At 13 years young, this terrier-chihuahua cross may be small, but her enthusiasm knows no bounds. A rescue pup with a heart of gold, Kora brings a little bit of her globetrotting spirit to the office, having explored a few new places alongside the Hop team. Whether she’s greeting students, staff, or visitors, Kora’s always ready with a wagging tail and a warm welcome. She’s the perfect reminder that, no matter how far you travel, it’s the little things—like a friendly face—that make you feel at home.