Jordan Anderson, coordinator in the Anderson University Center for Global Engagement, is among a select group of international educators who are NAFSA RISE (Representation, Inclusion, Support and Empowerment) Fellows.
Only 10 out of 140 international educators were selected from a nationwide application process in order to take part in the NAFSA RISE Fellows for 2022-2023. NAFSA RISE Fellows is funding a two-year professional development program for Jordan that promotes diversity within international education.
“Just realizing how amazing it is to be chosen and to feel as though I have what it takes to be on this fellowship for two years is amazing,” Jordan said. “Looking at the other applicants, it’s been phenomenal getting to know them. They are from different parts of the United States, so we’re really like a community.”
At the Anderson University Center for Global Engagement, Jordan’s job is twofold: He advises students on study abroad opportunities and he also helps Anderson University’s many international students with their onboarding process and assists them as they navigate a new culture and become part of the university community. Wanting to build his career in higher education administration, he feels that the NAFSA RISE Fellows will help him to open his career horizons.
Jordan received his degree in Mass Communication from Anderson University in 2020 and is currently enrolled in the Master of Organizational Leadership program at Anderson University. His first glimpse of Anderson University came when he was a high school student taking part in Palmetto Boys State. Feeling Anderson University was the perfect fit, he enrolled, and also was a member of the Trojan’s Men’s Track and Field Team.
RISE Fellows benefit from coaching from a seasoned international educator, increasing in their competency as an international educator through an individualized learning plan, training and networking and gaining knowledge and skills to prepare them to serve as an international education resource at their home institution. They benefit from a network of international education colleagues at the regional and national level to support them in their professional journey.
RISE participants receive all Academy benefits including the opportunity to attend three transformational NAFSA events, including the Spring Training Meeting, NAFSA Annual Conference and Expo, and a NAFSA Regional Conference. They also share their experiences gained through the fellowship via one of NAFSA’s publications and/or trainings, as well as give back to the field by being active in one of NAFSA’s volunteer leadership opportunities.
Ann-Margaret J. Themistocleous, Director of the Center for Global Engagement, a former NAFSA Leader, was honored by the news.
“Jordan plays an integral role within the larger campus community. He is an immigration advisor for international students and in addition, he serves as a study abroad advisor within the Center for Global Engagement. As RISE Fellow he will have the unique opportunity to network with international educators on a global scale. We are proud to have him selected for the RISE Fellowship,” Themistocleous said.
NAFSA RISE Fellowship welcomes applications from international education professionals from an underrepresented minority background.