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Fanta Aw, PhD
CEO of NAFSA
Dr. Fanta Aw is a recognized leader in international education, with over 30 years of experience at American University. She is a passionate advocate for global education, diversity, and innovation, frequently speaking on topics like internationalization, student success, and leadership. Dr. Aw serves on several influential boards and has been featured in major media outlets for her expertise. Originally from Mali, she has lived across Africa and the U.S., bringing a broad cultural perspective to her work shaping the future of higher education.
Vera Grek
Director of Graduate & International Enrollment at Wentworth Institute of Technology
Vera Grek (she/her) is the Director of Graduate & International Enrollment at Wentworth Institute of Technology, overseeing both graduate and undergraduate recruitment. She has expertise in international recruitment, file review, I-20 creation, pre-visa counseling, and international marketing, including SEO and nurture campaigns. Before Wentworth, Vera spent seven years at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and two years teaching English in Spain. She holds a BA in Spanish from the College of the Holy Cross and an MEd in International Education from UMass Amherst.
Shaun Morgan
Executive Director of Global Programs at the University of Massachusetts Boston
Shaun leads the Office of Global Programs as the Senior International Officer. In this role, he oversees international student and scholar services, study abroad programs, and global partnerships, aiming to enhance the university's global engagement. Before joining UMass Boston, Shaun accumulated extensive experience in education management, demonstrating a strong commitment to nonprofit organizations and educational leadership. His professional journey reflects a dedication to fostering international education and supporting public higher education access.
Amo-Augustus Kubeyinje
Director of Graduate Admissions & International Recruitment at Canisius University
Amo has extensive experience in graduate and international admissions, having previously served as an enrollment consultant at Vanguard Global Study Network, associate vice president for graduate admissions at Drew University, director of graduate admissions and enrollment services at William Paterson University, and associate director of graduate admissions at New Jersey Institute of Technology.
Dr. Balaji Krishnan
Vice Provost, Office of International Affairs at The University of Memphis
Dr. Balaji Krishnan is currently the Vice-Provost of International Affairs and Professor of Marketing in the Department of Marketing and Supply Chain Management in the Fogelman College of Business & Economics at The University of Memphis. Dr. Krishnan has 10 years as an academic administrator. Dr. Krishnan has 25 years of experience in marketing research, consulting and marketing education. Dr. Krishnan has consulted with small businesses as well as multinationals in India and the US. He has also consulted with firms in various industries. He has taught in the Doctoral, Masters and Undergraduate programs.
Anne Corriveau
Director International Admissions at Boston University
As Director of International Admissions at Boston University, Anne oversees First-Year student recruitment and immigration, managing one of the largest international student populations in the U.S., with a special focus on India. She has also led sessions at conferences such as NAFSA, OACAC, and NACAC, and served on the Region XI NAFSA Board.
John F. Eriksen
Senior Director of International Graduate Outreach and Admission ay Bryant University
John F. Eriksen has more than 25 years of experience in the international education arena. He began his overseas work in Bangkok, Thailand teaching English at Assumption University. His international admission career started at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. He travels over 10 weeks a year outside of the United States and leads recruitment, admission and enrollment of international graduate students at Bryant University. He has led recruitment tours in various locations around the world. He is a member of the College Board, the Council of International Schools (CIS) and National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) with affiliation to International ACAC. He has presented at the CIS Forum in Europe, NAFSA and International ACAC and he co-developed the Study Rhode Island Consortium, which meets regularly in promotion of Rhode Island as a destination for international students.
Kristin Nichols
Founder & CEO of Nichols Higher Education
Kristin Nichols is a higher education marketing professional and founder of Nichols Higher Education. With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades, she has worked at several top-tier institutions in the Northeast region. Kristin's skills in market research, brand development, digital strategies, and enrollment marketing have made a lasting impact on the industry. Currently residing in suburban Boston with her husband Chris and their two young children, Kristin devotedly balances a dedication to both her career and family. In addition to her consulting role, she currently serves as the fractional CMO at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. As a strategist and leader, she continues to shape the landscape of higher education marketing by contributing to the growth and success of the institutions she guides.
Melissa De Jesus
Director International Students, Scholars & Immigration Services at University of Rhode Island
Melissa De Jesus, is a University of Rhode Island alumna with a BS in Accounting & Finance and an MS in Spanish from URI. As the Director of International Students, Scholars & Immigration Services, she oversees the OISS unit, supporting the success and compliance of URI’s international student community. Melissa also works closely with campus partners to develop advising policies and recommend solutions related to students' and scholars' immigration status and strategy.