Richard “Dick” J. Tyner (BA French, political science ’70) established the Richard J. Tyner Scholarship to support undergraduate students in the University of Iowa (UI) College of Liberal Arts and Sciences majoring in a world language, political science, international relations, or international studies, who are studying abroad or completing an international internship through International Programs. Sixteen students have benefited from the scholarship since 2018, with many more to benefit for years to come as the result of an additional commitment from Tyner to endow the scholarship.
“After graduating from Iowa, I received an MA and a PhD in England as a Marshall Scholar,” remarked Tyner. “It was my first experience living abroad, and it eventually led to a career as an international lawyer living in the Middle East. Living and studying abroad is a truly transformative experience. I have endowed scholarships in International Programs so that other University of Iowa students can have this sort of opportunity.”
International Programs recently hosted a gathering with Tyner and two recipients of his scholarship: Samantha Hitlan, a second-year political science and Spanish double major, and Peyton Pangburn, a fourth-year international relations major. Over light refreshments, Tyner got to know the students, and discussed their planned and completed international experiences.
Hitlan will be studying abroad in Uruguay in spring 2024 on the USAC Montevideo program and said that receiving this scholarship was a game-changer for her.
"It goes beyond just helping with financial burdens,” said Hitlan. “It allows me to experience the invaluable opportunity of living in another country while gaining insights that a classroom alone can’t fully replicate. This support will allow me to absorb the language and culture of Uruguay as I embrace a life-changing adventure that I’ve always hoped for. It will allow me to learn and grow in ways that will undoubtedly benefit my present and future endeavors, which I am so grateful for.”
Pangburn participated in the Regents Semester in Scotland program in spring 2023, and reflected on how this experience impacted her.
“Studying abroad in Scotland was an amazing experience,” said Pangburn. “I expanded my academic understanding to topics I could not study at Iowa, learned what it was like to live in another country, became a better version of myself, and met people who I know will be lifelong friends, contacts, and colleagues. My life and my future career have been greatly enriched from my time abroad, and I thank Mr. Tyner and International Programs for their support.”
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International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.
