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WIU alumnus Kurt Jefferson, left, is pictured with WIU Director of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach Richard Carter.
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WIU Alum Wins International Education Award

February 25, 2016

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MACOMB, IL – A Western Illinois University alumnus and the international institute he leads have been chosen for the Innovation Award in Internationalization during a recent international education conference.

Kurt Jefferson, a 1988 graduate with a degree in political science and former student body president (1987-88), was presented with the award during the annual conference of the Association of International Education Administrators Feb. 21-24 in Canada.

"It's always an honor to be recognized for hard work and vision by one's colleagues," said Jefferson. "It's also an honor to know that as a WIU grad, we can make a difference in our world. My professors and student-life professionals at WIU deserve credit for where I am today. For that, I am grateful."

The conference was also attended by WIU Executive Director of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach Richard Carter.

"It is great to be attending a prestigious event with top university international administrators from around the world when they announce a Western alumnus as the award winner," said Carter. "Dr. Jefferson represents WIU in a very positive manner, proving over and over that WIU alumni can do anything."

Jefferson, a Macomb native, is the assistant dean for global initiatives at Westminster College in Fulton, MO. He is also a member of the WIU College of Arts and Sciences' Advisory Board.

Jefferson's parents, Bob and Sally Jefferson, were longtime business faculty at WIU. Jefferson's father was dean of the College of Business from 1984-89.

The award highlights exceptional programs, projects or initiatives aimed at advancing internalization on college campuses. More than 700 international leaders from around the world attended the conference in Canada.



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