Dear all,
This past year continues International Programs’ (IP) remarkable record of achievement in promoting global education at the University of Iowa. Our mission and purpose are to connect students, faculty, and staff with opportunities abroad to further the UI’s teaching, research, and service missions. The UI’s international student and scholar community continues to enrich our campus both intellectually and culturally. We are grateful for the innumerable contributions our international students and scholars bring to Iowa City and are so proud they have chosen to call Iowa their second home. IP’s story also includes large participation in study abroad. Iowa students have always been curious about the world, and our report gives you a glimpse into their life-changing experiences. Our students are leaving their mark on the world, carrying the Hawkeye spirit across continents and cultures, and proving that their ambition knows no borders.
Promoting the international work of UI faculty is crucial to IP’s success, and we are pleased to highlight the research International Programs has sponsored through International Travel, Major Projects, and Provost’s Global Forum awards, among others. In large part, this funding comes from the Stanley-University of Iowa Foundation Support Organization (SUIFSO). Faculty, staff, and students are indeed fortunate to have SUIFSO sponsorship year after year, as it carries a transformative impact on their academic and personal trajectories. Stanley gifts also support the many linkages and partnerships the UI has established throughout the world. These collaborations create countless opportunities for the campus community while increasing the UI’s footprint across the globe. We know you will enjoy the uplifting narratives included in this report. Ours has always been a forward-thinking and adventurous unit, and while 2025 was a great year for us, we expect the future to be even better.
Happy reading and all the best,
Russell Ganim, Associate Provost and Dean, International Programs
The University of Iowa is committed to enriching the global experience of students, faculty, staff, and the greater community. International Programs does this by providing leadership and support for internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.
Carver College of Medicine
Maria Schapfel spent the summer between her first and second years of medical school working at the Hôpital Albert Schweitzer in Lambaréné, Gabon. This legacy hospital founded by Nobel Peace Prize recipient Albert Schweitzer allowed her the opportunity to focus on tropical diseases including malaria as well as pathologies not often seen in the U.S. This non-English-speaking site also reinforced Maria’s ability to practice medicine in French in the future.
College of Dentistry
Saba Manafi, a third-year dental student, earned second place at the prestigious International Hatton Award Competition in Spain after winning the U.S. Hatton Award last March. This elite global contest recognizes the top young dental researchers, and Manafi’s dual victories place her among the most elite young researchers in dental and craniofacial sciences worldwide.
College of Education
Fifteen UI students, faculty, and staff traveled to Dakar, Senegal, in June 2025 for the College of Education’s three-semester hour course Colonialism, Postcolonialism and Education in Senegal. The students explored a variety of educational settings contextualized through cultural and community-based learning including visits to primary, secondary, and postsecondary schools and sites such as the National Ministry of Education, Gorée Island, and the Monument de la Renaissance Africaine.
College of Engineering
George S. Constantinescu, professor of civil and environmental engineering, was among 25 co-authors of a study published in Science on the environmental consequences of the wartime breach of Ukraine’s Kakhovka Dam. The research reveals how toxic sediments released downstream could pose long-term threats to ecosystems and human health, underscoring the global risks of infrastructure destruction during conflict.
College of Law
The University of Iowa College of Law is changing its France program from a five-week summer program to a one-week May intersession in Paris. The London winterim program, the largest study abroad program offered by a U.S. law school, will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2025. Several Iowa law students will also spend a semester at Católica Law School in Lisbon.
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Twenty UI students in health, sport, and human physiology spent three weeks in Spain, visiting cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, to explore what makes them among the world’s healthiest. Under Associate Professor Lucas Carr, they examined social determinants of health by immersing themselves in local culture, visiting healthcare sites, taking cooking classes, and learning how city design, public policy, and lifestyle influence well-being globally.
College of Nursing
Professor Karen Dunn Lopez and Assistant Professor Natany da Costa Ferreira Oberfrank from the College of Nursing traveled to Rotterdam to present innovative research at the ACENDIO 2025 conference—Dunn Lopez on a P3-funded novel nursing care data set developed at Iowa, and Ferreira Oberfrank on an international collaboration mapping heart failure self-care terminology across three countries.
College of Pharmacy
The College of Pharmacy continued its longstanding exchange with Keio University in Tokyo, Japan. Iowa students spend four weeks immersed in clinical, research, and Kampo medicine experiences at Keio. In turn, Keio University students visit the University of Iowa campus each fall. This year, Suzu Masuhara and Noriko Suzuki from Keio University Faculty of Pharmacy came to experience Iowa.
College of Public Health
A group of students led by Nichole Nidey and Jonathan Platt, assistant professors of epidemiology in the College of Public Health, traveled to Costa Rica in summer 2025 for the course Maternal Health in Migrant Communities. Students explored similarities and differences in the delivery of maternal health care in migrant, rural, and indigenous communities in Costa Rica and Iowa. Participants included
undergraduate and graduate students of various majors.
Graduate College
MFA student Getong Wang is blending ancient history and political memory in his thesis film exploring the culture of his hometown, Handan, China. Using 16 mm film and vintage propaganda footage, Wang draws parallels between the Northern Qi dynasty and the Cultural Revolution. Supported by an MFA Summer Fellowship, his work reflects Iowa’s strong tradition in experimental filmmaking and showcases the
power of cinematic arts to analyze history.
Tippie College of Business
For a ninth year, the Institute for International Business at Tippie College of Business hosted the Mandela Washington Fellowship that empowers young leaders from across Africa through academic coursework, leadership training, mentoring, and networking. Since 2016, the Fellowship has brought over 200 fellows to the University of Iowa campus from 45 sub-Saharan countries, comprising the largest
UI-affiliated alumni network based outside the U.S.
Get our monthly newsletter
Stay current on upcoming events and news from International Programs
Study Abroad at the University of Iowa continued its upward momentum in 2025, achieving steady growth in student participation across diverse regions and responding to a notable rise in requests for custom internship placements abroad. Donor support has been essential in making global learning opportunities more accessible, and Study Abroad is profoundly grateful for this generosity. Study Abroad remains a vital part of the University of Iowa’s commitment to international education. Through its programs, Study Abroad equips students with global awareness, adaptability, and cross-cultural skills that enrich personal and professional growth while advancing the university’s mission and strengthening the nation’s ability to engage effectively in an interconnected world.
Over the past year, Study Abroad made a concerted effort to expand the geographic reach of its sponsored programs. While Western Europe remains popular, Study Abroad has seen significant increases in students choosing destinations such as Japan, Costa Rica, Eswatini, South Korea, the Dominican Republic, India, and the Bahamas—reflecting a shift toward more globally varied experiences. Most students continue to participate in traditional programs offered through partner providers, but many are embracing faculty-led options tailored to specific academic interests. A standout example is Study Abroad’s newly launched Maternal Health in Migrant Communities program in Costa Rica. Designed primarily for public health majors but relevant across disciplines, the course explores social determinants of health and healthcare delivery in migrant settings. Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive—100% of participants who completed the program evaluation said they would recommend it to their peers.
1,096
11% increase from the previous year
$ 973,512
Included in that figure are awards totaling more than $658,000 from
UI sources such as the Ann Morse Study Abroad Scholarship fund
and the Stanley-UI Foundation Support Organization (SUIFSO).
Top 10 Study Abroad Destinations for UI Students
| Country | Total |
|---|---|
| Italy | 294 |
| Spain | 170 |
| United Kingdom | 100 |
| Greece | 66 |
| Australia | 52 |
| France | 40 |
| Ireland | 37 |
| Eswatini | 28 |
| Costa Rica | 22 |
| Japan | 21 |
Study Abroad Peer Mentor Program
The Study Abroad Peer Mentor program connects prospective study abroad students with Hawkeyes who’ve already studied, interned, or conducted research abroad. These 60+ undergraduate volunteers not only offer guidance and share real-world insights, but this year have started to participate in campus outreach—from tabling events and panel discussions to content creation. Their firsthand perspectives help demystify the process, build confidence, and inspire students to pursue transformative global experiences.
Meet the first Hawkeye Abroad Creators: A new opportunity for study abroad students
Iowa genetics and biotechnology student Kara Juhl selected for competitive CIEE Leading Change in Latin America Fellowship
This year, International Programs supported just over 2,000 international students and scholars at the University of Iowa—an inspiring testament to the strength and resilience of global education during a time of continued uncertainty. These numbers reflect the dedication of the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team, the Graduate College, the Office of Admissions, UI faculty and staff, and the students themselves, who all contribute to making Iowa a welcoming and supportive academic home.
The ISSS team plays a central role in welcoming new international students, offering expert guidance on visa and immigration matters and fostering a positive experience. These personal connections are at the heart of our mission as we engage with students and discover their aspirations and reasons for choosing Iowa. Throughout the year, ISSS hosted events and programs to help international students navigate life in Iowa. These included coffee hours, meditation sessions, cultural trips, workshops, and social events like a trivia night and a healthy cooking class. As we continue to advocate for and support our international students and scholars, we remain committed to providing the resources and connections they need to thrive at Iowa and beyond.
2,029
in fall 2025 from 110 foreign countries and territories
Top 10 Home Countries of UI International Students
| Country | Total |
|---|---|
| China | 433 |
| India | 377 |
| South Korea | 124 |
| Nigeria | 110 |
| Bangladesh | 72 |
| Iran | 71 |
| Canada | 55 |
| Ghana | 57 |
| Pakistan | 41 |
| Brazil | 38 |
Most Common Majors for International Students
| Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|
| Business/Pre-Business | Chemistry |
| Computer Science | Music |
| English and Creative Writing | Biomedical Science |
| Psychology | Iowa MBA Program |
| Biomedical Engineering | Computer Science |
“These events feel like going back home. It's not easy to connect with other people, and ISSS events are like a second home where I can connect with people and meet new friends. It's everything.”
Honoring international student success at the End-of-Year Celebration
Pianist Duong (Jun) Le awarded the 2025 Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship
3,975+
since 2021
UI students share positive experience as 3,000th client served at UI Passport Office
Russ Ganim and UI Passport Agent Candice Stevens celebrate the 3,000th passport applicant with Winnie and Vivian Ferrell
Little Free Library
A student-designed Little Free Library, inspired by Anne Frank’s life and legacy, found a permanent home in the Janice and Bruce Ellig Children’s Library at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Anne Frank Initiative (an International Programs affinity group), Iowa Youth Writing Project, and Clear Creek Amana Middle School.
Pictured: Mallory Hellman, Iowa Youth Writing Project, and Kirsten Kumpf Baele, Anne Frank Initiative director, at the unveiling of the Little Free Library
Commitment to Internationalization Lecture
Karri Goeldner Byrne, recipient of the 2025 International Impact Award, presented this year’s Commitment to Internationalization Lecture, “Navigating the Unpredictable: The Private Sector as Partners in Humanitarian Response.”
Karri Goeldner Byrne and Gregs G. Thomopulos honored with 2025 International Impact Award
Japanese Olympian Keisuke Otoguro finds a second home in “Wrestletown, USA”
Multicultural Showcase highlight of University of Iowa celebration of international education in November
The University of Iowa supports meaningful formal relationships with international universities and institutions. When they work optimally, such relationships bring a wide range of educational benefits, enabling UI and international faculty and students to study and conduct research abroad. International Programs serves as a central resource to support UI units that seek to establish meaningful institution-to institution relationships for the benefit of University of Iowa students, staff, and faculty.
India: A Strategic Global Partner
India’s rapidly growing economy and investment in higher education make it a vital partner for global collaboration. At the University of Iowa, our long-standing ties with India continue to flourish across student mobility, research, and institutional partnerships. The University of Iowa has formal agreements with the following institutions in India:
- Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education
- Maharashtra Institute of Technology – Art, Design & Technology (MIT-ADT)
- Pallium India
- Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Deemed University
- RV College of Engineering
1,707
2nd largest international student population at the UI
6
12
“The long-term vision for our collaboration with the University of Iowa is to create a sustainable and multi-dimensional partnership that transcends traditional academic exchange.”
India Winterim
This award-winning, field-based, faculty-led study abroad program has been offered since 2006. Recognized for its innovative approach, India Winterim immerses students in projects focused on sustainable development and water resource management, partnering with leading organizations in India to address real-world challenges.
1,100+
200+
totaling over $315,000
Funding Opportunities and Grant Writing Assistance
International Programs is committed to advancing the success of UI faculty engaged in global research, partnerships, and scholarly activities by offering grant-writing assistance and access to financial resources. These opportunities—made possible in whole or in part by the generous contributions of the Stanley-UI Foundation Support Organization—range from travel awards to campus-wide initiatives, benefiting hundreds of faculty members across disciplines.
Affinity Groups
Faculty-led affinity groups create opportunities for hosting public lectures, advancing research and teaching, and providing synergies for cross-disciplinary collaboration and interaction among faculty and students.
- African Studies Program
- Anne Frank Initiative
- Center for Asian and Pacific Studies
- European Studies Group
- Iowa Global Health Network
- Jewish Studies Network
- Korean Studies Research Network
- Latin American Studies Program
- South Asian Studies Program
Betty Mallen (right), assistant professor of instruction, nursing, recipient of an International Travel Award, conducted an exploratory trip to the Netherlands to plan for a nursing student immersion program.
“I am deeply grateful to the Stanley-University of Iowa Foundation Support Organization for their generosity and continued support. Their commitment makes it possible for me to pursue my professional and artistic goals, and I feel extremely fortunate to be part of a university community that invests so meaningfully in its artists and scholars.”
Through the generosity of University of Iowa alumni C. Maxwell (Max) and Elizabeth (Betty) M. Stanley, the Stanley-University of Iowa Foundation Support Organization (SUIFSO) was created in 1979. Since its inception, SUIFSO has funded projects to promote public understanding and cooperative action on critical international issues across the UI, including the creation of the Stanley Awards for International Research, given annually to outstanding University of Iowa undergraduate and graduate students for the pursuit of research and learning activities outside of the United States.
Nationally competitive grants and fellowships offer tremendous opportunities to transcend borders through global experiences that include study, internships, English‑language teaching, and research or creative projects. International Programs reinforces this commitment to international engagement by providing individualized advising, information sessions, workshops, and mentoring to help UI students and alumni identify and apply for scholarships, grants, and fellowships, alongside the strong institutional support for faculty and staff pursuing Fulbright awards.
Meet the recipients of the 2025 Stanley Award for International Research
9 UI students awarded Gilman Scholarships to study and intern abroad in 2025
18 UI students, alumni receive Fulbright awards for 2025–26
4 UI students awarded Critical Language Scholarships
The Critical Language Scholarship is a U.S. Department of State program designed to broaden the base of Americans studying and mastering critical languages while fostering relationships between people of the U.S. and other countries.
Faculty/Staff Fulbright Grant Awards
Azeez Butali |
Kate Giannini |
Ana Jimenez |
Donald E. Letendre |
Kanwal Singh Matharu |
Marian Muste |
Get our monthly newsletter
Stay current on upcoming events and news from International Programs
International Programs (IP) provides guidance and support for international students in the University of Iowa community, as well as scholarships and assistance for UI students who wish to study abroad. IP also provides funding opportunities for UI faculty engaged in international research. You can continue to support globally oriented programs and resources by contributing to International Programs, www.foriowa.org/international. For more information, please contact Katharine Lasansky in the UI Center for Advancement at katharine.lasansky@foriowa.org or (319) 467-3805.