I have always been committed to promoting international education. As an undergraduate at Grinnell College, I studied abroad in France. That experience led me to a career as a Professor of French and then later as a Department Chair, Division Director, and Dean. Because I have spent considerable time abroad, I am deeply sensitive to the needs of international students and want to use my current position to help them as much as possible. I also strive to seek opportunities for domestic students to have enjoy global experiences. It is especially important to communicate these opportunities to first-generation students, as there are many resources available to promote international access and education here at Iowa. It’s especially important for first-generation students to know that we have resources for them to study abroad. A top priority for International Programs is to connect our study abroad advisors to first-gen students so that they can learn more about what we have to offer regarding innovative study abroad programs and internships.