The Isabella Cannon Global Education Center (GEC) recognizes four members of the Elon community for their leadership, service, and commitment to advancing global education.
This year marks the fourth year that the GEC Dean’s Excellence Awards have been presented in recognition of exceptional contributions to global engagement at Elon. Awardees will be recognized in an upcoming International Coffee Hour (April 16, 3rd floor of Sato Commons, 9:30 am), celebrating their impact on the university’s commitment to internationalization as outlined in Elon’s global strategic plan.
“This year’s award recipients reflect the very best of Elon’s commitment to global engagement,” said Nick Gozik, dean of global education. “Through their leadership, service, scholarship and care for others, they help create a campus culture where internationalization is not simply an aspiration, but a lived experience. Their efforts strengthen our community and remind us that global education is essential to preparing thoughtful, engaged citizens in an interconnected world.”
Courtney Smith, senior associate director of financial aid, received the staff award for her outstanding support of study away students. Her work, particularly in the area of financial aid and literacy, has played an important role in helping students thousands of students access global opportunities and navigate the financial aspects of studying away.
“Courtney’s contributions have been pivotal to the university’s efforts to make international experiences more accessible and manageable for students,” said Allegra Laing, executive director of global programming.
Jeff Carpenter, William S. Long Professor and professor of education, received the faculty award in recognition of his leadership in global education, including as chair of the Global Education Curriculum Committee; support and leadership of overseas programs, including the joint GEC/Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education program in New Zealand; and strong record of scholarship and teaching with a global focus. It was noted that Carpenter’s work as a teacher educator, scholar and mentor has helped strengthen Elon’s global learning environment, and his teaching overseas reflects a sustained commitment to international and intercultural education.
Huria Tahiry, recipient of Elon’s Commitment to Democracy Scholarship, received the international student award for her contributions to Elon’s campus community since arriving in fall 2022. Tahiry has served as an International Student Ambassador and has been involved in the Muslim Student Society, Eco-Reps, the Asian Pacific Student Association and other campus organizations. She also founded Caravan Club focused on Central Asian countries and culture, worked as an environmental justice intern and served as a SOC analyst for the Information Security Office. In addition, she is president of Women in Computer Science (WiCS).
Most recently, Tahiry worked with campus partners to bring Habiba Sarabi to Elon, helping foster dialogue about the global impact of Afghanistan’s ban on women’s education and the ongoing fight for educational rights and gender equality. Denise Teeters, director of international students, said Tahiry stands out not only for her accomplishments but for her character, noting that she is consistently among the first to offer support to others.
“Her presence has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our campus, and we are stronger because of her,” Teeters said.
Mya Lee received the Study Away Student Award for exemplifying Elon’s commitment to global learning through academic excellence, leadership and meaningful engagement abroad. An Odyssey Scholar, Global Ambassador and student-athlete, Lee brings a thoughtful and inclusive perspective to global education.
“Mya’s study abroad experience in Florence further reflected her dedication to cultural exchange, learning and community, while inspiring her peers through her leadership and engagement,” said Danthon, program coordinator.