NIU's Diverse and Inclusive Community Celebrates International Education Week

Advancing Education: NIU's Achievements in International Education Recognized

Established in 1895, Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university located in DeKalb, Illinois. Committed to excellence in teaching, research, and public service, NIU provides a vibrant learning environment for its diverse student body. Recently, individuals and departments at NIU received awards for their achievements in international education, sponsored by the Division of International Affairs and presented during International Education Week in November.

Taylor Atkins, a Distinguished Teaching Professor of History, received the Outstanding International Educator at NIU Award for 2024. With over 20 years at NIU, Atkins has significantly contributed to North and East Asian History education, serving in various roles such as instructor, advisor, and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Affairs. He is known for his courses on topics like Women in Asian History, Popular Culture in Japan, and the Korean War. Atkins's extensive research in modern Japanese and Korean cultural history, colonialism, ethnomusicology, and jazz studies has established him as an internationally recognized scholar. NIU Music Professor Jui-Ching Wang praised Atkins for his dedication to promoting global understanding, multiculturalism, and outstanding scholarship, highlighting his motivating instruction and mentorship.

Additionally, Jessie Alex, the office manager for diversity, equity, and inclusion at NIU's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), has been recognized for promoting international education. She is active on campus, serving on the Operating Staff Council, the Presidential Commission on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, and the Faculty Senate Social Justice Committee.

Robert Brinkman, Dean and Smerge Endowed Dean’s Chair of CLAS, commended Alex for her dedication to advancing diversity and belonging initiatives, including supporting Indonesian government officials' training and managing logistical tasks. She also gathers and manages data to better understand NIU's international student demographics.
Founders Memorial Library received the Outstanding Department Contribution to International Education Award for its support of international education through resources, services, and programs. These include guest lectures, library tours, specialized research help, curated collections, and cultural events. The library's research collection of Southeast Asian materials, managed by curator Hao Phan, is notable for its breadth. NIU History Professor Trude Jacobsen Gidaszewski highlighted the library's critical role in contributing to international education and providing opportunities for students to gain a global perspective through its extensive collections and collaborations with other NIU departments.

Fernando Marroquin Mendoza, a graduate student at NIU pursuing a master’s degree in music with an emphasis on music performance and world music pedagogy, received the Outstanding Student Contribution to International Education Award for 2024. Originally from Guatemala, Mendoza specializes in oboe performance and has participated in ensembles such as the NIU Philharmonic Orchestra and the New Music Ensemble.

NIU Music Professor Jui-Ching Wang, who nominated him, noted Mendoza's motivational influence as a graduate teaching assistant. She mentioned his innovative approach to teaching rhythm, where he has students record dance movements to groove patterns and share them as TikTok videos. Wang praised Mendoza’s dedication to both general education courses and music education majors, highlighting his role as a globally connected and locally engaged student. NIU's recent awards in international education highlight the university's commitment to fostering global understanding and excellence across its diverse and dynamic community.

Editor's Note:

Northern Illinois University's (NIU) remarkable achievements in international education are commendable. Through the recognition of individuals and departments, NIU demonstrates its unwavering commitment to developing global understanding in various fields. From distinguished professors and dedicated staff members to innovative students and supportive departments, these awards highlight the university's dedication to creating a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic educational environment.

Skoobuzz acknowledges NIU’s contribution in international education by showcasing the importance of global engagement and cross-cultural collaboration in today's interconnected world.