Dear all,
What makes International Programs (IP) a distinctive place is our ability to build and sustain communities. In this vein, we’re especially proud of our commitment to the University of Iowa’s international students and scholars. As most of you know, the spring semester has been a challenging one for this community. At the same time, they have shown great persistence and patience despite many unforeseen obstacles. All students face difficult decisions when going to college. The case of international students is somewhat different, however, in that they are coming to a new country and culture where the learning experience goes far beyond the classroom environment. This time of year is especially significant because it marks the graduation of international students who have been with us for a complete degree cycle. To recognize these students, as well as our entire international community, IP held an end-of-year celebration to acknowledge achievements in all areas of their time at Iowa. It was wonderful to see students with whom we have cultivated relationships over the years and to see them mentoring others as they leave the university and pursue their careers. Many of you know these students and scholars, and I know you will join me in applauding them and their accomplishments as the academic year nears its end.
The University of Iowa’s reputation as a leader in global education brings visitors from all over the world. In April, we were delighted by the arrival of several colleagues from Ghana and Kenya who participated in the African Leaders University Training Program. The initiative was led by the Institute of International Business (IIB) in the Tippie College of Business and consisted of workshops, lectures, and visits with local entrepreneurs. As you know, IP has prioritized collaborations in Sub–Saharan Africa, and this program will further assist us in developing opportunities for faculty and student engagement in this part of the world. We are especially indebted to our friends Dimy Doresca, Fernand Bila, and Jayne Meacham for their partnership in this regard. Speaking of the IIB, International Programs congratulates the IIB on its recent NASBITE International - 2025 Advancing International Trade Award.
Two other key events bear mention, as they attest to IP’s sustained success in promoting global engagement. The first is Slice of Advice, an event sponsored by our Study Abroad team to bring together veteran and prospective study abroad students. The final session of the year was held in late April, with excellent attendance (and excellent pizza!).
Our study abroad numbers have reached—and even surpassed—pre-Covid levels. Student-focused activities such as these prepare future groups of study abroad cohorts, ensuring that Hawkeyes will continue to explore the world. Special thanks go to Ana Jimenez, Phoebe Nishimoto, and Emily Brown for putting together this outstanding series. Lastly, a loud shoutout goes to our Fulbright team of Karen Wachsmuth and Sylvia Dean for putting together an end-of-semester recognition event for Fulbright and Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) winners and applicants. The turnout from students, faculty, awardees, and mentors was outstanding, and everyone deserves praise for extending our already sizeable Fulbright and CLS families. These gatherings would not be possible without the hard work of our outstanding Communications and Relations staff, and we take special note of our event planners Daniel Vorwerk and Kate Murphy.
And thanks to you as well, dear friends of IP, for your support of our endeavors.
With all best wishes,
Russ
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.