Connecting global talent with professional and cultural experiences in the U.S.

​Who We Are

Pan Atlantic Exchanges is a U.S. Department of State-designated J-1 Visa Sponsor committed to facilitating high-quality Internship, Trainee, and Scholar programs.
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We work with international participants, host companies, and global partners to create structured, hands-on learning experiences that promote professional growth and cultural exchange.
True to our name, the Pan Atlantic logo was inspired by the boating routes that first enabled the world to connect and share cultures with one another. Our goal is to continue bringing diverse cultures together through our various exchange programs. 

Our Mission

To foster international understanding through professional training and cultural exchange.

We believe that global experiences build stronger careers, broaden perspectives, and create lasting connections across cultures.

What We Do

We support participants and partners at every stage of the J-1 program:​
  • Sponsor Internship and Trainee programs across a range of industries
  • Facilitate placements with qualified U.S. host companies
  • Provide guidance through the visa sponsorship process
  • Monitor program quality and ensure compliance
  • Encourage meaningful cultural exchange experiences

Who We Work With

Participants
Students, graduates, and professionals from around the world seeking hands-on experience in the U.S.
Host Companies
U.S.-based organizations committed to training and mentoring international talent.
Recruitment Partners
​Trusted agencies that help identify and prepare qualified candidates globally.

Our Approach

Structured. Supportive. Participant-Focused.
We go beyond basic sponsorship by offering:
  • Clear guidance throughout the application process
  • Ongoing support during each participant’s program
  • Strong communication with both participants and host companies
  • A commitment to compliance, safety, and program integrity

Cultural Exchange Matters

At the heart of everything J-1 program is cultural exchange. 
We encourage participants to:
  • Engage with their local communities
  • Share their own cultures
  • Experience life in the United States beyond the training site

Our Programs

  • J-1 Internship
  • J-1 Training
  • Research & Short-Term Scholar
Each program is designed to provide structured learning while supporting cross-cultural understanding.

Our Commitment

We are committed to:
  • Maintaining the highest standards of program quality
  • Supporting participants from application through U.S. program completion
  • Ensuring all programs align with U.S. Department of State regulations
  • Creating positive, meaningful experiences for everyone involved

Meet the Team

Behind every successful program is a team committed to your experience. Our coordinators work closely with participants and partners to ensure a smooth and supportive process.

Spencer Jones
President

Before joining Pan Atlantic Spencer worked at  CIEE: Council on International Educational  Exchange. During his nearly 8 year tenure at CIEE Mr. Jones was responsible for diverse operational divisions, creating significant growth in areas such as High School and GAP year, Teach Abroad, Undergraduate Study Abroad, Enterprise Foundations and Insurance. Prior to CIEE, Mr. Jones held leadership roles at a variety of firms in the US and Latin America. He is a graduate of Williams College. He and his wife are the parents of four adult sons.

Dayna Ankermann
Account and Compliance Manager, Exchange Programs 

Dayna previously worked in the Study abroad office at Clark University while earning her M.A. in Public Administration with an International Studies focus. Dayna has been with Pan Atlantic since 2018 but now lives in Australia where she works remotely.  Her experiences living and traveling abroad have fueled her passion for international education and have brought her to Pan Atlantic where she can help others gain similar experiences. In her free time, Dayna enjoys anything that keeps her active, such as weight-lifting, bouldering, triathlons, hiking, and swimming. 

Tess Grossi
Senior International Student Coordinator

​Before joining Pan Atlantic in 2021, Tess worked for over 10 years in Participant Services at the 'Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) supporting thousands of participants throughout their international work exchange and study abroad programs.  She currently serves as Co-President of an all-volunteer Portland non-profit: Scholarships for Maine Immigrants, where she has volunteered for over 10 years.  Tess is very active in the community; volunteering at environmental cleanup events, and at a local animal shelter, as a cat adoption counselor. Tess has traveled extensively for work and pleasure to over 25 countries. She has a B.S. with a concentration in International Business, an M.B.A. from Endicott College and a TEFL Certification from TEFL Toulouse in France.

Kate Romei
Vice President of Exchange Programs; ​Responsible Officer 

Kate joined Pan Atlantic Exchanges in 2021 bringing extensive operations, sales, and team building experience. Before joining Pan Atlantic, she spent 4 years with IST PLUS as the Director of Bridge USA Programs developing and sustaining 3 international work-based exchange programs.  Prior to that she spent 14 years at the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), a nonprofit study abroad and intercultural exchange organization. While at CIEE, Kate saw a progressive increase in responsibility, culminating in the Senior Director of CIEE’s largest program, Work & Travel USA. Kate received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Bates College in Lewiston, ME. Kate resides in Portland, ME with her family.

Sophie Harrison
​Senior International Student Coordinator

Sophie joined Pan Atlantic as International Student Coordinator in the Summer of 2021. Sophie’s thorough approach has helped hundreds of participants have positive cultural exchange experiences. Sophie works from the PA headquarters in Portland, ME.  Sophie holds a dual degree in English and Anthropology from The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD). As an undergraduate, Sophie worked as an English Tutor for three years, helping students master writing skills. In 2019 she worked as a Teaching Assistant in UMD's Anthropology Department. Working with fellow students in this capacity sparked Sophie’s passion for collaboration and shared knowledge.

Miranda Coombs
​International Student Coordinator

​Before joining Pan Atlantic Exchanges, Miranda interned in Ghana, West Africa, where she focused on women's empowerment with a global non-profit organization. The experiences she gained living abroad gave her an immense passion and appreciation for cultural exchange. Miranda graduated from the University of Maine, with a B.A. in Communications/Media Studies, and a Minor in Women's Gender Studies. In her free time, Miranda spends time with her cat named Jax, gardens, makes art, hikes, and loves to explore New England.
Pan Atlantic is a proud member of the Alliance for International Exchange and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.