Office of International Programs

Graduate student Kazi Samina Afroz is recognized for her remarkable dedication to promoting cross-cultural understanding and global engagement on campus. Through her role as a Cultural Ambassador, she has shared her Bangladeshi heritage in activities across campus, enriching the App State community’s appreciation of diverse cultures. 

Additionally, Samina has contributed to international research on sustainable practices in the Global South, emphasizing the importance of global citizenship.

Graduate student Jonathan Linderich is recognized for his extraordinary dedication as one of the most active Cultural Ambassadors at App State. Through his involvement in the International Friendship Program, he has fostered meaningful cultural exchanges and supported students in navigating new cultural environments. 

Jonathan's research in sustainable technology and leadership at global conferences have further highlighted his commitment to advancing climate solutions on behalf of the Appalachian community. 

Undergraduate student Grace Knapp has been instrumental in fostering a global mindset at App State. As president of International Appalachian (INTAPP), a student-led organization affiliated with the Office of International Programs, she has promoted study abroad, leadership, and positive experiences for international students while advancing the internationalization of our campus. 

Grace's leadership and dedication to cross-cultural understanding have inspired many and strengthened our community’s commitment to global engagement. Beyond campus, her work with the Fulbright TEA Fellowship Program, her support for Ukrainian refugees, and her recent participation in COP 29 in Azerbaijan showcase her unwavering commitment to global citizenship.

Faculty member Misa Yamamoto has made sustained contributions to advancing global understanding and intercultural exchange. Despite the limitations often faced by non-tenure track faculty, she has dedicated herself to promoting global awareness through education and cultural initiatives that reach beyond the classroom. Her support for student organizations, her work with international students, and for fostering connections with partner universities have greatly enriched the App State community. 

Misa has continually gone above and beyond, ensuring that students and faculty alike gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and language. Her commitment to creating transformative global experiences underscores her passion for education and cultural enrichment. 

Misa's dedication to cultural exchange and the support she's provided for student organizations has left a lasting legacy of global understanding on our campus. 

Faculty member Charlie Chen has distinguished himself through years of dedication to fostering international education and research collaboration. With a focus on creating transformative experiences for students, he has led numerous study abroad programs across Asia and Europe, enriching students' perspectives and global awareness. His efforts have also established vital institutional partnerships with universities around the world, broadening App State’s global network and opening new avenues for collaborative research. 

An esteemed scholar, Charlie has contributed significantly to international publications and conferences, sharing his expertise and furthering cross-cultural understanding in his field. His commitment to building an inclusive, globally-minded academic community has made a memorable impact. 

Charlie's commitment to creating international opportunities and building academic partnerships has opened the world to so many of our students and faculty.