CILC USDLA 2025 Award

CILC Honored with USDLA Gold Award for Excellence in Distance Learning Research

North Mankato, Minn. (February 6, 2025) — The Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC), a nonprofit dedicated to opening hearts and minds through live virtual learning, announced today that it has received the prestigious Gold Award in Distance Learning Research from the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA).

Each year, USDLA recognizes innovators and leaders in the distance and virtual learning industry through its International Awards program. These highly coveted awards celebrate organizations and individuals demonstrating excellence across multiple categories. The program highlights significant achievements in distance learning and honors educators, programs, and professionals who have advanced online learning through innovative approaches and cutting-edge technology.

“Winning the Gold Award in Distance Learning Research from USDLA, the global leader in virtual education, is a true testament to CILC’s commitment to innovation and excellence,” said Allyson Mitchell, Director of Partnerships and Engagement at CILC. “This recognition underscores the impact of our research-driven approach in expanding access to meaningful, interactive learning experiences for content providers and learners of all ages worldwide.”

“Each year, USDLA has the opportunity to recognize standouts within the distance learning community,” said Valary Oleinik, President of USDLA. “Our international awards program is a time for celebration as we honor those who work tirelessly to improve the experience for remote learners worldwide. USDLA is proud of this year's winners and pleased to recognize their accomplishments.”

For more than 30 years, CILC has been a leader in distance learning, continuously driving innovation and expanding access to interactive education. Winning the USDLA Excellence in Distance Learning Research Award reflects CILC’s dedication to advancing best practices in virtual learning. Through initiatives like the Museums and Interactive Virtual Learning book and the Why Distance Learning? podcast, CILC bridges the gap between learners and cultural institutions, ensuring that education remains immersive, engaging, and accessible. As a nonprofit committed to a world where learning knows no limits, CILC empowers educators, students, and lifelong learners to connect with world-class experts and expand their horizons.

About the United States Distance Learning Association

Founded in 1987, the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) was established to support the growing demand for education and training through emerging communication technologies. As the first nonprofit distance learning association in the U.S., USDLA promotes research, development, and best practices across education, corporate training, military and government training, home schooling, and telehealth. The organization also advocates for policies that impact the digital and distance learning community.

About the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration

For more than 30 years, the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC) has connected learners of all ages to transformative educational experiences through live virtual programming. As a nonprofit dedicated to opening hearts and minds through interactive learning, CILC bridges communities, people, and ideas—expanding the boundaries of traditional education and sparking lifelong curiosity. Since its founding in 1994, CILC has partnered with museums, science centers, zoos, historic sites, and other institutions to deliver over 120,000 programs to 3.5 million groups worldwide. Committed to accessibility and meaningful engagement, CILC fosters authentic learning experiences that inspire growth and discovery, regardless of location or financial means.

Media Contacts:
Allyson Mitchell
CILC
amitchell@cilc.org
507-386-2972

Pat Cassella
USDLA
pcassella@usdla.org