By Kyle Johnson, Texas A&M University Global Engagement
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, TX, AUG. 27, 2024 – Texas A&M University’s Associate Vice President for Global Engagement, Dr. Holly Hudson, recently received the Education Abroad Leadership Award during the NAFSA: Association of International Educators Annual Conference and Expo in New Orleans.
The Education Abroad Leadership Award was established in 1999 to recognize members whose records of distinguished service to the education abroad profession exceed 15 years. Each year, this award is given by the Education Abroad Knowledge Community (EAKC) to one education abroad professional who has made and will continue to make a lasting contribution to education abroad.
One nominator said, “Holly’s passion and knowledge for international education is unparalleled. She is never satisfied with the status quo and consistently looks for ways to adapt, innovate, and enhance the field.”
While serving as the executive director of Education Abroad at Texas A&M, Hudson successfully led one of the nation’s largest education abroad offices through the global pandemic while strengthening programs and processes. Before joining Texas A&M, Hudson made significant contributions at various institutions. For instance, at the University of Southern Mississippi, she established faculty leader training programs and emergency plans, while also enhancing risk management protocols. Additionally, Hudson substantially increased the number of faculty-led programs and boosted study abroad participation by 60% at the University of Alabama. Through additional grants and scholarships, she tripled the study abroad program at the University of Southern Alabama.
“It is an honor to be recognized as a leader in a field with so many talented and dedicated people,” Hudson said. “I’ve been fortunate to work at institutions that value international education throughout my career and these accomplishments wouldn’t be possible without that support.”
About the Program
NAFSA is the largest and most comprehensive association of professionals committed to advancing international higher education. The association believes that international education advances learning and scholarship, fosters understanding and respect among people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, is essential for developing globally competent individuals, and builds leadership for the global community. More information about the award can be found at: https://www.nafsa.org/about/about-nafsa/education-abroad-leadership-award