U.S. State Dept: Southern Is A Top Fulbright U.S. Scholars Producer

NEW HAVEN, CT —The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has recognized Southern Connecticut State University as one of the top-producing institutions for the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program for the 2024-25 academic year.

Southern is the second-highest producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars in the state of Connecticut, further solidifying its role as a leader in international academic exchange.

The Fulbright Program, one of the world’s most prestigious international exchange programs, operates in more than 160 countries and fosters cross-cultural collaboration and academic excellence across educational institutions.

Southern is honored to have four faculty members and administrators selected for Fulbright placements in 2024-25 – a reflection of the university’s commitment to international engagement and scholarly excellence, said Michael Schindel, assistant director of international education and international student advisor.

These include three Fulbright U.S. Scholars—Dr. Kelly Mabry, Dr. Radu Bogdan Zamfir, and Dr. Amy Smoyer—and Fulbright Visiting Scholar Dr. Cristina Alsina Risquez from Universitat de Barcelona.

“At Southern, we prioritize transformative learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom, fostering an exchange of diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich both our university and the global community,” said Schindel.

Additionally, Southern professors Joyce Taylor, who teaches social work, and Jonathan Weinbaum, who teaches biology, were named Fulbright specialists this year and will travel internationally to share their expertise.

“This recognition as a Fulbright top-producing institution underscores the caliber of our faculty and the quality of research at Southern,” said Interim President Dwayne Smith. “Our faculty’s global engagement enriches the academic experience for our students, many of whom gain exposure to international education through study abroad and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) courses. These opportunities enhance cultural competency, preparing our graduates for success in an increasingly interconnected world.”

Dr. Smith was also named to the Fulbright Scholar Specialist Program in 2013 while serving as provost and vice-president for academic affairs at Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Southern has twice hosted Fulbright Visiting Scholars and sent 17 academicians to 15 countries, representing disciplines across education, social work, business and the humanities. Students are also encouraged to apply for Fulbright opportunities through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program.

“SCSU also offers approximately 15 dynamic, short-term, faculty-led study abroad programs each year, allowing students to explore international destinations such as Rome, Costa Rica, Iceland and Paris while engaging in hands-on learning with their professors,” Schindel explained. “This is more opportunities than any other institution in the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities (CSCU) system.”

The Fulbright Program, the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative, has provided more than 400,000 students, scholars, and professionals with opportunities to study, teach, and conduct research abroad since its inception in 1946. Fulbright alumni include 44 heads of state or government, 62 Nobel Laureates, and 90 Pulitzer Prize winners, among other distinguished leaders.

“It is an incredible accomplishment for Southern Connecticut State University to be recognized as a top producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars,” said CSCU Chancellor Terrence Cheng. “The work of SCSU’s faculty and staff in pursuing international scholarship through their Fulbright experiences positively impacts the students we serve, enhances the campus community, and affirms the CSCU system’s commitment to global learning and engagement.”

Applicants to the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program at SCSU receive guidance and support from the Office of International Education. For more information about the Fulbright Program, visit https://fulbrightprogram.org/. For a full list of the top-producing institutions, click here.

About Southern Connecticut State University:

Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is a leading institution committed to academic excellence, community engagement, and social justice. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, SCSU has a rich history dating back to 1893 and fosters a supportive learning environment that empowers students to become responsible global citizens.

Our world-class faculty and diverse student body collaborate on research and initiatives that address critical societal issues, driving positive change in our local community and beyond. SCSU remains dedicated to its mission of preparing students to be critical thinkers and agents of social change, working toward a more just and equitable world.

For more information about Southern Connecticut State University, please visit www.southernct.edu.