Dr. Roopa Rawjee, executive director of the Office of International Engagement at Illinois State University, has recently been celebrated on two prestigious fronts. Fresh from her participation in the Fulbright International Education Administrators (IEA) program in France, she was honored with the Patti Jones Award for Outstanding Leadership at the NAFSA Region V Conference. These accolades highlight her dedication to fostering international collaboration and her influence on higher education leadership.

The Fulbright IEA program, run by the U.S. Department of State, is a selective, two-week intensive seminar aimed at strengthening international education leadership. This year, only 14 administrators from across the country were invited, placing Rawjee among a highly distinguished group. The program is designed to encourage U.S.–France partnerships and offers participants a chance to deeply understand global education systems.

Immersed in French Academia

During her time in France, Rawjee engaged with top universities, research institutes, and business schools in cities such as Reims, Troyes, and Paris. She also met with government representatives and education professionals to explore new avenues for collaboration. These experiences offered her unique insights into the structure and functioning of French higher education, providing lessons that she can bring back to enrich Illinois State University’s international programs.

Reflecting on her journey, Rawjee shared that the experience carried personal significance. Years ago, she had hoped to pursue a Fulbright award but had been unable to do so due to program requirements. “Receiving this recognition now feels like a full-circle moment,” she said, describing it as both exhilarating and humbling.

Honored for Leadership at Home

Shortly after returning, Rawjee was recognized for her leadership on home soil. The Patti Jones Award for Outstanding Leadership, presented at the NAFSA Region V Conference on October 30, celebrates exceptional leaders who demonstrate mentorship, service, and a commitment to advancing international education in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

NAFSA: Association of International Educators, the world’s largest nonprofit dedicated to international education, notes that the award highlights contributions that strengthen the professionalism and growth of the Region V community. Rawjee’s impact on international education, both through her mentorship and strategic initiatives, made her an exemplary recipient.

Driving Global Engagement Forward

These honors reflect Rawjee’s ongoing commitment to fostering global perspectives at Illinois State University. Her experiences abroad are expected to enhance international collaborations, create new opportunities for students and faculty, and inspire a broader culture of global engagement.

Looking ahead, Rawjee is focused on advancing the university’s strategic initiatives under Excellence by Design. She continues to co-chair planning teams and lead initiatives that translate international insights into actionable goals, demonstrating how leadership and collaboration can create lasting change in higher education.