OHIO faculty, staff honored for global education, research excellence

Ohio University celebrated its international education programs and honored several individuals for their outstanding global engagement efforts near the end of the fall semester.

During International Education Week, Nov. 18-22, Ohio University held several events to recognize the importance of global education through research, teaching and experiential learning. One of those events was the International Education Week Gala and Awards Ceremony, which is held each year to honor many of the individuals involved in these efforts.

“Tonight, we come together to celebrate not only the importance of international education but also the remarkable legacy and future of Ohio University in global engagement,” Interim Associate Provost for Global Affairs said at the Nov. 18 event. 

OHIO’s strong legacy in international education is especially evident this year as the University celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Center for International Studies and the African Studies program. In addition, in the past year OHIO has celebrated the 50th anniversary of its partnership with Chubu University in Japan, 25 years of Thai language instruction, and strong rankings for international enrollment and for OHIO students studying abroad.

“These achievements are a testament to the enduring power of collaboration, cultural exchange and global learning,” Ice said. And now, OHIO has the opportunity to continue to strengthen its programs in order to best prepare its students to engage across differences, collaborate with diverse teams, and navigate a globalized economy.

“The University’s Dynamic Strategy provides an excellent framework for advancing these goals. It empowers us to expand global learning opportunities, foster groundbreaking research, deepen international partnerships, and create an inclusive community for globally engaged faculty, staff and students,” Ice said. 

While the awards gala honored a few select individuals, Ice said that faculty, staff and alumni all across the University contribute greatly to OHIO’s global education programs, and she thanked everyone in attendance for their support.

“Your dedication to global engagement strengthens not just our University but the broader communities we serve,” Ice said.

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Awards for Excellence in Global Engagement

Global Learning Award – Dr. Michael Kopish

Dr. Michael Kopish, associate professor in the Department of Teacher Education in the Patton College of Education, was named as the winner of the Global Learning Award.

This award honors faculty and staff who create outstanding learning experiences that promote global awareness, cultural competence, and the development of students as global citizens

“Mike has consistently incorporated global perspectives into his curriculum, teaching, and mentorship,” said Professor Danielle Dani, associate dean of research and graduate studies for the Patton College of Education. “He has used innovative teaching methods and programs to promote intercultural competence and prepare students for global citizenship, and he continues to make measurable impact on student learning outcomes at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.”

Kopish has integrated the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) technologies into his courses, contributed to a Global Education Fair with local schools, facilitated international partnerships, and engages undergraduate students with international graduate students in his courses. In addition, he is a dedicated mentor for Ph.D. students, helping them to become global educators and scholars.

“Mike’s commitment to global engagement is unwavering and his efforts to promote intercultural and global competencies within Patton Hall, across Ohio University, and in collaboration with the broader and global community have made an indelible impact,” Dani said.  “I have no doubt that his work will continue to shape the discourse in this field and inspire future generations of global educators.”

Global Discovery Award – Dr. Zelalem Haile

Dr. Zelalem Haile, associate professor of epidemiology in the Department of Social Medicine in the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and interim director of Global Health Initiatives in the College of Health Sciences and Professions, was honored with the Global Discovery Award. 

This award recognizes individuals who have engaged in innovative research, scholarship and creative activities with significant global or international impact. The honor highlights those who are advancing knowledge that addresses global challenges or enhances understanding across borders. 

“Dr. Haile’s commitment to research in global health is evident in his expansive and impactful research, particularly in maternal and child health and sexual and reproductive health,” said Prince Adu, Ph.D., assistant professor of instruction in the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine.

As the interim director of Global Health Initiatives, Haile has exemplified leadership and OHIO’s commitment to collaboration. In addition, he spends his summers in Ghana, Uganda, Botswana, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, leading initiatives that strengthen local research capacity.

“For him, these trips go far beyond producing publications; they are about developing sustainable partnerships, mentoring emerging scholars, and empowering local researchers with the tools needed to address various health challenges,” Adu said. “Dr Haile is indeed a champion for global health research.”

Global Community Award – Bose Maposa

The Global Community Award was presented to Bose Maposa, director of operations for the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost. This award honors those who contribute to building an inclusive, welcoming environment, fostering diversity, and building a sense of belonging at Ohio University.

“Over the years, Bose has made it her personal mission to support and uplift international students, faculty, and scholars at Ohio University,” said Interim Director of Global Health Zelalem Haile, associate professor of epidemiology in the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. “Her work goes far beyond her professional responsibilities—Bose’s initiatives and unwavering commitment have profoundly contributed to the values of inclusion and engagement within the Ohio University community.”

Maposa has provided mentorship and guidance to countless international students over the years, and she has also taken her own time to organize a network to collect and deliver furniture, household items and other necessities to students and scholars in need.

“This remarkable effort highlights her dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for those from diverse international backgrounds,” Haile said. In addition, she has led groups of students, alumni and faculty to the African Studies Association Conference the past four years and has served as a leader from programs such as the STARTALK Swahili Program. 

“Bose Maposa is a true champion of inclusion and engagement,” Haile said. “She brings people together and fosters a sense of belonging for all. Her tireless efforts remind us of the power of compassion and commitment in creating a globally connected community.”

Global Community Award – Dr. Andrew Ray

Andrew Ray, the director of International Student Services at the Graduate College, was also honored with the Global Community Award.

“His innovative credential evaluation has streamlined our processes and enabled digital systems for international admissions,” said Graduate College Dean David Koonce.  He added that Ray works very hard to help all OHIO students, and explained that his initiatives have enabled a quick review of applicants to ensure that international students meet OHIO’s academic standards.

“Dr. Ray's leadership encompasses more than just administrative achievements. He has focused on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students,” Koonce said.

Ohio University has seen a substantial increase in international graduate enrollment in recent years, and Ray and his team have streamlined processes and managed the growth effectively.

“His positive leadership inspires his team, and his dedication to cultural exchange is clear from his interactions, such as greeting students in their languages and integrating his staff into the campus community,” Koonce said.  “Dr. Andy Ray exemplifies all the qualities of an outstanding recipient of the Global Community Award.”

Global Engagement Award – Dr. Haley Duschinski

The Global Engagement Award was presented to Dr. Haley Duschinski, director of the Center for International Studies and professor of anthropology in the College of Arts and Sciences.

The Global Engagement Award showcases work that expands Ohio University's influence and relationships worldwide, as well as contributions that align with OHIO’s Dynamic Strategy by extending its impact through outreach and collaboration beyond the campus.

“Haley has dedicated her career to untangling complex issues surrounding conflict, human rights, and legal anthropology, with a special focus on the disputed Kashmir region (divided between India and Pakistan),” said Brianne Dowler, assistant director for student success and communications for the Center for International Studies. Duschinski was nominated for the award by Dowler and Professor Anirudh Ruhil, associate dean for research and planning in the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service, and Laura Sowers, assistant director of alumni relations, campus partnerships for the Ohio University Alumni Association.

Duschinski was recognized for her visionary leadership for the study abroad programs she has worked with, including the South Africa study abroad program, her research work and her impressive publishing record. She was also honored for her outstanding work with the Center for International Studies.

“Haley has made tremendous strides to elevate the Center for International Studies (CIS) since taking the role of director in October of 2023,” Dowler said. Duschinski was integral in securing a prestigious Fulbright-Hayes grant for the CIS, and her work has benefited the CIS and the entire University in numerous ways.

“Haley’s work as a Bobcat embodies the best of global engagement at OHIO,” Dowler said.

Tanaka OHIO Award for Excellence in Global Engagement – Professor Koichi Hasegawa

The Tanaka-OHIO Award for Excellence in Global Engagement recognizes faculty and staff at Chubu University, Ohio University’s long-time strategic partner, for their outstanding contributions to international education and research, global community service, global competency, cultural understanding and/or international programs at Chubu University, or in their fields or disciplines.

This year’s recipient is Professor Koichi Hasegawa, who is a professor in the Department of Environmental Biology in the College of Bioscience and Biotechnology at Chubu University. He also serves as the deputy director of the Center for International Affairs, a position he has held since 2021.

“Professor Hasegawa’s contributions to international education and globalization at Chubu University have made a tremendous impact on the institution and on its students,” said OHIO Professor Chris Thompson, who has worked extensively with Chubu University over the years. “His work is highly acknowledged by both his colleagues and university administrators.” 

Hasegawa has worked with universities around the world, invited international researchers to work in his lab, and has seen the students he has taught and mentored go on to prestigious research positions across the globe.

“Even today, Dr. Hasegawa came to my Spoken Japanese class to engage with students and promote Chubu’s Summer Intensive Japanese Language Program for OHIO students,” Thompson said. “His work and his reputation make Professor Hasegawa most deserving of this year’s Tanaka-OHIO Award.”

Center for International Studies Alumni Awards

This year’s awards ceremony also honored several alumni from the Center for International Studies, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

A large number of Center for International Studies alumni traveled from around the world to attend the event, as well as other special activities during International Education Week.

To read more about the alumni award winners and to learn more about the panel discussions and other alumni events held through the week, see this OHIO Today article about the Center for International Studies 60th anniversary celebration.