Office of International Programs

Sandrine Ingabire, recipient of the 2023 Graduate Student Global Leadership Award, has exemplified outstanding service and cross-cultural leadership throughout her time at App State. As a Grant Assistant for the Mandela Washington Fellowship, she provided exceptional mentorship and support to visiting Fellows, helping foster meaningful dialogue and global understanding within the campus community. Her commitment to international engagement also shines through her work as a Resident Advisor and mentor, where she supports students, encourages cultural exchange, and creates an inclusive environment for learning and growth. Sandrine’s empathy, steady leadership under pressure, and advocacy for women’s leadership embody the very spirit of global citizenship, making her a truly deserving honoree.

Shea Raiola, a 2023 Student Global Leadership Award recipient, has distinguished herself through her dynamic leadership and deep commitment to global engagement at App State. As an active leader in the International Business Student Association and a driving force within INTAPP, she played a pivotal role in transitioning the organization’s programs from virtual to in-person following the pandemic. Her efforts revitalized signature events such as the Global Perspectives Panel and the Coffee Buzz 5K fundraiser, expanding support for the Landon Hill scholarship and strengthening community involvement.

Drawing from her own experiences of moving from China to the United States and studying abroad in the UK, Shea brings empathy, cultural insight, and a genuine passion for fostering an inclusive campus environment. She has been instrumental in recruiting globally minded students, organizing cross-cultural programs, and creating welcoming spaces for international students to connect and thrive. Her professionalism, compassion, and organizational skill have enriched the university’s global community and left a lasting foundation for continued internationalization at App State.

Megan Kasper, recipient of the 2023 Global Leadership Staff Award, has made extraordinary contributions to strengthening App State’s international engagement. As Associate Director of Community-Engaged Leadership, she played a vital role in shaping meaningful global leadership exchange programs, including hosting partners from the University of Johannesburg and showcasing the cultural and academic vibrancy of our institution. Despite navigating a new staffing structure, Megan skillfully orchestrated programs that deepened cross-cultural understanding and elevated global learning opportunities. Her impact extends into the Reich College of Education through her involvement with the Fulbright TEA Fellows program and her work developing courses with a global focus. Her dedication, vision, and commitment to fostering global connections make her a standout leader and a deserving recipient of this honor.

Dr. Cameron Lippard, recipient of the 2023 Faculty Global Leadership Award, has spent more than 16 years at App State advancing a deep and impactful understanding of global issues through teaching, scholarship, and community engagement. In the classroom, he creates dynamic learning spaces where students critically examine complex topics including racism, immigration, and war, encouraging them to connect local experiences with global realities. His scholarly work—focused on the sociological impacts of immigration and the evolving dynamics of racism—has made significant contributions to his field and provided valuable insight for students, colleagues, and the broader academic community. Dr. Lippard’s dedication to fostering global awareness and informed dialogue has left a lasting mark on campus and makes him a truly deserving recipient of this honor.