On April 9, MSU International Studies and Programs (ISP) honored eight award recipients and celebrated their contributions to international research, teaching, innovation, and engagement at the 29th annual International Awards Ceremony at Spartan Stadium.

Guests enjoyed meeting and connecting with one another while celebrating the achievements of their peers, colleagues, and family members. The recipients were applauded for their extraordinary work globally, here at MSU, and in their communities. “MSU has so much to be proud of, especially when it comes to our international outreach, education, and engagement,” said Steven Hanson, associate provost and dean for MSU International Studies and Programs. 

Individual award recipients were:

• Lalita Udpa: Professor, MSU College of Engineering. Recipient of the Ralph H. Smuckler Award for Advancing International Studies and Programs at MSU.
• Deborah J. Margolis: Librarian, Michigan State University Libraries. Recipient of the Charles A. Gliozzo Award for Public Diplomacy.
• Robert A. Montgomery: Assistant professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Recipient of the John K. Hudzik Emerging Leader in Advancing International Studies and Programs Award.
• Suyanto: Professor, Yogyakarta State University, alumnus of the MSU College of Education. Recipient of the Joon S. Moon Distinguished International Alumni Award.
• Karen W. Lienhart: Academic Student Affairs, MSU College of Natural Science. Recipient of the Award for Outstanding Service to Education Abroad.
• Connie Wolfe: Volunteer, Community Volunteers for International Programs (CVIP). Recipient of the Homer Higbee International Education Award.
• Faizan Shafique: Student, School of Planning, Design and Construction, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Recipient of the Homer Higbee International Education Award.
• John Metzler: Outreach Coordinator, African Studies Center. Recipient of the Special Recognition Award for Promoting International Understanding.

During the event, Hanson also emphasized the importance of creating global citizens who will continue MSU’s legacy of global engagement. “An important part of innovation is ensuring that the next generation is prepared to carry the torch,” said Hanson. “And along with that spark of innovation, ensuring that our world-grant values, the Spartan work ethic, our spirit of entrepreneurship, and our international partnership philosophy—that these are infused into the next generation.” 

Presenting the awards were two Spartan students who reflected on their international experiences at MSU. “I am now more informed and much better prepared to be someone who can lead, empower, and inspire others in our increasingly diverse and global society,” said Asif Iftekhar, a sophomore majoring in computer science.

Senior Emily Skupin, who graduates this spring with a degree in Linguistics, credited her study abroad experience with helping her prepare for her career. “Stepping outside of your experiences at home is essential to becoming an engaged global citizen,” she said. Learn more about the International Awards.