Spring '26 International Engagement Awards
Learn more about the International Engagement Awards and this year's Awardees!
The Office of International Engagement (OIE) proudly honors the remarkable contributions of our students and community members who inspire and create global opportunities both on and off campus through the awarding of two separate awards; The Rising Global Star, and the International Excellence Award. One acknowledging the remarkable efforts of students within our community, and the other recognizing the exceptional dedication of faculty, staff, and volunteers who champion global initiatives and promote the exchange of knowledge.
Each February, OIE opens nominations for both, and after review and scoring from a committee of 3-4 UNI Faculty, Staff, and Students; awardees are chosen.
Learn more about the 8 awardees who were recognized for their hard work, dedication, and heart in our community this year.
Doris Lovell - International Excellence Award
Doris is deeply admired as a volunteer in our Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) dedicated to supporting students, who consistently goes above and beyond to lend a helping hand. One nominee noted that Doris "...shows up with enthusiasm, an open heart, and an open mind to meet our new and returning students." Outside of volunteering her time with the RSVP program, this nominee also extends their welcoming attitude to students by inviting them to their home for holidays, engaging with them on weekend trips and coffee chats, and is on the OIE’s list of volunteers when it comes to last minute transportation needs. Another nominator noted, Doris "...consistently goes above and beyond what is asked or expected of them in their volunteerism, and seeks to connect genuinely with students and staff alike."
Thank you Doris for you commitment, heart, and compassion for our community!
Dr. Soh Meacham - International Excellence Award
Dr. Soh Meacham demonstrates a deep and sustained commitment to promoting global understanding, research, and international exchange both locally and globally. Her nominator states, "...Their lived experience shapes the empathy, insight, and advocacy they bring to their work with international students. Looking at them, I gain encouragement to push myself forward in my own academic journey." Dr. Meacham is the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research and Professor and Coordinator of the Ed.D. Program at the University of Northern Iowa and shares her personal philosophy with students, encouraging them on. Her nominator commented on that philosophy; Dr. Meacham "...often speak about “Suda Scholarship,” emphasizing how knowledge is passed through generations through shared stories and lived experiences. This philosophy reflects their deep belief in global knowledge exchange—not only through scholarly publications but also through meaningful human connection."
Thank you Dr. Soh Meacham for your continued support and commitment to helping our students thrive, in and out of the classroom!
Professor Staci Toma - International Excellence Award
Professor Staci Toma is an Assistant Adjunct Professor of Percussion in the UNI School of Music and Advisor to the World Music Club. Through continued collaboration with the OIE office, Staci's students have been able to bring the joy of various musical traditional to festivals, events, celebrations, and gatherings. An advocate for global musical traditions, Professor is dedicated to expanding multicultural education through performance. Her nominator noted her "...continued excitement and dedication to partnering... offering unique experiences to the wider community." Her enthusiasm, passion, and engagement has truly been a gift to our community.
Thank you Professor Toma for your continued collaboration and joy at bringing people together through music!
Gladys Maud Quaye - Rising Global Star
Maud Gladys Quaye is a dedicated student leader who consistently supports others and uplifts the international community on campus. She is known for being approachable and reliable, always willing to guide students and connect them with resources as they adjust to academic and cultural life. As one nominator shared, she is “a humble, hardworking, and proactive individual,” reflecting her strong work ethic and commitment to service. Beyond her involvement with groups like OIE, GPS, and the UNI Ghana Association, Maud is deeply engaged in volunteer work, supporting children’s programs, faith-based communities, and service initiatives. Her impact comes from both her actions and her character, with another nominator describing her as “selfless, reliable and has compassion for others.”
Thank you Maud for you commitment to community and the genuine want to help others!
Mevlon Pozhari - Rising Global Star
Mevlon Pozhari is a driven student leader who is deeply committed to international education and building meaningful connections across cultures. Through roles like Student Assistant Programming Coordinator in the OIE, Communication Director for the International Club of Business Students, and involvement with the Global Panther Success Team; he creates programs and events that bring students together in inclusive and engaging ways. His work focuses on making students feel welcomed, heard, and connected while encouraging intercultural learning across campus. As reflected in his approach, he works to build “...inclusive spaces where international and domestic students can connect, learn from one another, and thrive together.” Drawing from his own global experiences, Mevlon believes that, "...global community is built not only through programs and policies, but through authentic human connection."
Thank you Mevlon for your work, going above and beyond to help connect and support!
Ruth Abagna - Rising Global Star
Ruth Abagna is a passionate leader dedicated to supporting her peers and promoting global engagement on campus. As a Global Panther Success Ambassador, International Student Promoter, and Teaching Assistant; she helps students adjust both academically and socially while creating a welcoming environment. Ruth also takes initiative beyond her roles; organizing information sessions for students in Ghana and mentoring prospective students through social media and direct outreach. Ruth proudly represents UNI at conferences and networking events, always advocating for the value of its global education. As she says, “I do not wait for opportunities, I construct them,” a mindset that reflects her drive to make a real impact. Guided by empathy and her own experiences, she is committed to helping others feel supported from the very beginning, sharing, “I want to ease those feelings for others in my situation.”
Thank you Ruth for you role in making our community shine here and off campus!
Doaa Ibrahim - Rising Global Star
Doaa Ibrahim is a passionate student leader who is deeply committed to international education and supporting students from . As a Global Panther Success Ambassador, she helps international students navigate their transition to campus, offering not just guidance but genuine care and connection. As one nominator noted, she is “...friendly and approachable… making others feel included, valued, and supported,” which shows in the strong sense of belonging she creates for those around her. Her work is shaped by her own journey, growing up in rural Egypt and becoming a Fulbright scholar, which drives her mission to expand access to global education. She actively supports students through mentorship, research, and advocacy, always working toward a more inclusive community. As Doaa shares, “I’m not just checking boxes, I’m trying to build something,” a mindset that reflects her dedication to creating lasting impact both on campus and beyond.
Thank you Doaa for bringing your experience to our campus and sharing it with others!
Faiza Tabassum Ananta - Rising Global Star
Faiza is a caring and dedicated student leader who consistently goes above and beyond to support her peers. Through her roles as the previous President of student organization, International Student Promoters and as a Resident Assistant; she helps students adjust to campus life and feel like they truly belong. She’s always willing to step in and help, even when it’s not expected of her. As one nominator shared, “...she went above and beyond to help me navigate the challenges of settling into a new country and university environment.” Her care shows up in the little things she does every day, with another nominator noting that “...their advocacy for international education shows in both their formal roles and everyday actions.”
Thank you Faiza for your commitment to helping our student settle into life here on campus!
See more photos of the event below! So many of our students and community were nominated this year. It was a great opportunity to recognize the hard work of our students, staff, faculty, and UNI Family.
