In this episode, Joanna Regulska, Vice Provost and Dean of Global Affairs at the University of California-Davis, and Jolynn Shoemaker, Director of Global Engagements at the University of California-Davis, discuss how Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) transform higher education. They explore aligning SDGs with university strategies to enhance missions, foster global partnerships, and address systemic challenges. Their insights include embedding SDGs into curricula, research, and community initiatives to tackle global issues.

"If higher education institutions engage with the SDGs and focus on different areas, this is where the value lies. The value is in providing knowledge, educating students, and expanding awareness of the SDGs as an important point." – Joanna Regulska

In conclusion, building strong community partnerships is key for universities to leverage the SDGs for growth. Jolynn cites UC Davis’ collaboration with Sacramento as an example of extending impact beyond campus. These partnerships enhance outreach, engage faculty and students, and apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges. With interdisciplinary collaboration and support for creative ideas, higher education can drive sustainable development globally.

In this episode, Cheryl Matherly, Vice President and Vice Provost for International Affairs at Lehigh University shares her unconventional journey in international education. She discusses pivotal moments in her career and how her background in career counseling shapes her approach. She emphasizes universities as community anchors, integrating international education into teaching, research, and service, and highlights the importance of data and partnerships. She also stresses the need for SIOs to effectively communicate the value of international programs to ensure their sustainability and growth.

“International education is at the core of what a university is about—teaching, research, and service. It’s about bringing together the best minds from around the world to solve the big global challenges.” – Cheryl Matherly

In conclusion, the future of international education hinges on its seamless integration with broader institutional and community objectives. By effectively communicating the value of global initiatives to diverse stakeholders, we can ensure their relevance and sustainability, ultimately leading to a more significant impact on students and society. This approach will reinforce the vital roles universities play in fostering community engagement and global citizenship, enriching the educational landscape for all.

In this episode, Randy Kluver, Associate Provost and Dean at Oklahoma State University, underscores the importance of broadening the mission of international engagement offices. He advocates for innovation, proactive advocacy, and exploring new opportunities. Through projects like the Afghan family initiative and global trade partnerships, he illustrates the transformative community impact and funding success that can be achieved.

"To justify the university's international engagement, you must often expand your activities and initiatives. This includes building new alliances, creating innovative programs, and securing new funding sources." – Randy Kluver

Randy Kluver’s transformative journey provides key insights for SIOs aiming to expand their mission. By revitalizing programs, building strategic partnerships, and navigating geopolitical challenges, SIOs can enhance their impact within universities. Embracing a dynamic vision for internationalization, rooted in proactive engagement and strategic foresight, unlocks new opportunities and drives positive change in higher education.

Mary Stegmaier, Senior International Officer at the University of Missouri, emphasizes ensuring health, safety, and security in study abroad programs. She discusses using data for risk assessment, crisis management, and emergency response, sharing insights from her recent faculty-led Central Asian program and highlighting best practices for preparedness and safety in international education.

“Being ready for emergencies relies on real-time data. Whether it's a medical emergency or a major incident abroad, our alert systems and data protocols guarantee quick, informed responses to keep our students safe.” - Mary Stegmaier

In this video, Mary emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health, safety, and security in study abroad programs. She also discusses how data can be utilized for comprehensive risk assessment to inform decision-making and implement best practices to foster a culture of preparedness and proactive crisis management.

Jon Stauff, Assistant VP for International Affairs at South Dakota State University, discusses the undervalued role of faculty in this field and the importance of collaboration between faculty and international education offices. He shares his experiences leading study abroad programs, highlighting faculty impact on students' global learning. He also emphasizes faculty advocacy in promoting international education and shaping the university's reputation. The conversation underscores the crucial role of faculty in driving transformative international education programs.

“Understanding the challenges of the faculty member is crucial. We need to respect what the faculty member brings to the table.” - Jon Stauff

Jon focuses on these three main takeaways: Faculty members are crucial yet often underappreciated in international education, bringing expertise that transforms student learning. Collaboration with international education offices is key for successful study abroad programs. Faculty also champion the importance of global education within and outside the university.

In this episode, Mihaela Metianu, Assistant Provost for Global Engagement at Florida Atlantic University, discusses strategies for growth in international education. She stresses understanding organizational structure, building expertise, and the cyclical nature of the field. Mihaela highlights the importance of international education in combating enrollment declines and advises institutions to focus on their unique strengths and foster a sense of belonging. She underscores the role of data in planning, compliance, and advocacy, urging collaboration and knowledge-sharing among senior international officers.

“Being able to access and manage that story that the data says in an effective way is probably one of the most important aspects of what a young professional in this field should learn.” – Mihaela Metianu

In conclusion, international education growth relies on strong fundamentals, external partnerships, and data-driven decisions. By mastering core principles, collaborating, and using data, professionals can navigate challenges and drive institutional growth. Adaptability and continuous improvement are key for long-term success in this evolving field.

In this episode, Grant Chapman, Senior International Officer at Kansas State University, discusses the importance of creating a digital database to track and measure the university’s global engagement initiatives. This database will provide valuable data on partnerships, student mobility, and faculty collaborations, empowering SIOs to advocate for international education and support the university's overall mission. Universities can leverage their global work to benefit local communities and tell impactful stories of their contributions. This digital transformation is crucial for the future of higher education.

"This concept of an international inventory or digital database is a game changer as a real-time tool for advocating, pursuing new grant proposals, and sharing the impact of what we do globally." – Grant Chapman

In conclusion, the power of digital data has transformed the role of Strategic International Officers (SIOs) in higher education. The ability to harness real-time insights, advocate for global initiatives, and understand one’s place in the world has become essential for SIOs in building global relationships. By leveraging digital databases and infrastructure, SIOs can develop tools that provide a comprehensive view of their institution’s international activities, enabling them to make informed decisions and drive impactful global engagement. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the power of digital data will continue to empower SIOs in their mission to foster global relationships and create a positive impact locally and globally.

In this episode, Meredith McQuaid, former SIO of the University of Minnesota, discusses how to raise a university's profile through international education. She discusses the importance of getting university presidents on board, the power of storytelling and data in advocating for international education, and its impact on the overall student experience. McQuaid emphasizes the need for collaboration and recognition within the international education community to create meaningful change.

“International education impacts everyone on the campus through experiences, conversations, confrontations, and discussions that expand the context beyond domestic.” - Meredith McQuaid

Boosting your university's global presence involves rallying supporters, highlighting the value of international education, and securing resources. Engage stakeholders, tell impactful stories, and use data to demonstrate its transformative power. Prioritizing international education equips students for a globalized world, elevating the university's reputation.