Data Storytelling Workshop in France

In May 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to visit France and lead workshops on data storytelling for students at the Institute of Technology (IUT) at the University of Angers. As someone deeply invested in the power of data to inform, inspire, and connect, this week turned out to be not only professionally fulfilling but also personally transformative.

From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the hospitality and warmth of my hosts in Angers, a charming city rich in history and culture. But what truly stood out were the students—brilliant, curious, and deeply engaged. Their eagerness to dive into the art of storytelling with data, and the creativity they brought to their projects, was inspiring. Seeing them connect the dots between analytics, narrative, and impact reminded me why I do this work in the first place.

Beyond the workshops, the experience was enriched by the global community that gathered in Angers. With 50 scholars from 17 different countries, the event was a vibrant melting pot of perspectives, ideas, and cultures. It was a joy to exchange insights, form new friendships, and spark research collaborations that I believe will extend well beyond this week.

There’s something uniquely powerful about crossing borders—geographical, academic, and disciplinary—to share knowledge and learn from others. I left France with a full heart, a head buzzing with new ideas, and a deeper appreciation for the global language of data.

To the students, colleagues, and hosts who made this journey so meaningful: merci beaucoup. I look forward to where these connections may lead next.

What truly made this experience unforgettable was the enthusiasm and dedication of the students. From the very first session, they approached each concept with curiosity and a genuine desire to learn. They asked thoughtful questions, engaged in lively discussions, and eagerly explored how to transform data into meaningful narratives. By the end of the workshop series, the students presented their own data storytelling projects, each reflecting not only their growing technical skills but also their creativity and critical thinking. I was genuinely impressed by the depth of their work and the passion they brought to each presentation. Their drive to learn and apply new ideas was both energizing and inspiring.

This visit also provided a unique platform to share my expertise from the SMART Lab at Ohio University with a European academic audience. As a Visiting Scholar at the University of Angers, I had the opportunity not only to lead data storytelling workshops but also to represent Ohio University at the University of Angers’ Study Abroad Fair. This engagement opened doors for meaningful conversations around future collaborations, academic exchanges, and student mobility. It was a proud moment to contribute to expanding global learning opportunities, aligning with Ohio University’s mission to foster international partnerships and enhance its global footprint. Experiences like these are more than academic—they are bridges connecting people, institutions, and ideas across borders.

One of the highlights of the trip was a guided tour of the stunning Château d’Angers, a medieval fortress that stands proudly above the Maine River. With its iconic black-and-white striped towers and rich history dating back to the 9th century. Walking through its ancient halls offered a tangible sense of Angers’ deep historical roots and artistic heritage.

Adding to the cultural immersion, the university organized a treasure hunt across the city, a creative and interactive way for us to get acquainted with Angers’ landmarks, hidden gems, and vibrant streets. It was not only a fun and engaging activity, but also a wonderful way to build camaraderie among participants from across the globe.