The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has recognized Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) as one of the top-producing institutions for the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program for the 2024-25 academic year. Southern is the second-highest producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars in the state of Connecticut, further solidifying its role as a leader in international academic exchange.
The university is one of 46 institutions to receive this honor, and one of only five new top producing institutions this year.
The Fulbright Program, one of the world’s most prestigious international exchange programs, operates in more than 160 countries and fosters cross-cultural collaboration and academic excellence across educational institutions.
Southern is honored to have four faculty members and administrators selected for Fulbright placements in 2024-25 – a reflection of the university’s commitment to international engagement and scholarly excellence, said Michael Schindel, assistant director of international education and international student advisor.
These include three Fulbright U.S. Scholars — Dr. Kelly Mabry, Dr. Radu Bogdan Zamfir, and Dr. Amy Smoyer—and Fulbright Visiting Scholar Dr. Cristina Alsina Risquez from Universitat de Barcelona.
“At Southern, we prioritize transformative learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom, fostering an exchange of diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich both our university and the global community,” said Schindel.
Additionally, Southern professors Joyce Taylor, who teaches social work, and Jonathan Weinbaum, who teaches biology, were named Fulbright specialists this year and will travel internationally to share their expertise.
“This recognition as a Fulbright top-producing institution underscores the caliber of our faculty and the quality of research at Southern,” said Interim President Dwayne Smith, who was also named to the Fulbright Scholar Specialist Program in 2013 while serving as provost and vice-president for academic affairs at Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis, Missouri.
“Our faculty’s global engagement enriches the academic experience for our students, many of whom gain exposure to international education through study abroad and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) courses. These opportunities enhance cultural competency, preparing our graduates for success in an increasingly interconnected world.”
“Fulbright scholarships are a mark of excellence,” added Julia Irwin, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Creating transformative experiences via global networks, cutting-edge research, and collaboration opportunities helps our scholars keep pace with workforce trends and expectations.”
Southern has twice hosted Fulbright Visiting Scholars and sent 17 academicians to 15 countries, representing disciplines across education, social work, business and the humanities. Students are also encouraged to apply for Fulbright opportunities through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program.
“SCSU also offers approximately 15 dynamic, short-term, faculty-led study abroad programs each year, allowing students to explore international destinations such as Rome, Costa Rica, Iceland and Paris while engaging in hands-on learning with their professors,” Schindel explained. “This is more opportunities than any other institution in the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities (CSCU) system.”
The Fulbright Program, the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative, has provided more than 400,000 students, scholars, and professionals with opportunities to study, teach, and conduct research abroad since its inception in 1946. Fulbright alumni include 44 heads of state or government, 62 Nobel Laureates, and 90 Pulitzer Prize winners, among other distinguished leaders.
“It is an incredible accomplishment for Southern Connecticut State University to be recognized as a top producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars,” said CSCU Chancellor Terrence Cheng. “The work of SCSU’s faculty and staff in pursuing international scholarship through their Fulbright experiences positively impacts the students we serve, enhances the campus community, and affirms the CSCU system’s commitment to global learning and engagement.”
Applicants to the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program at SCSU receive guidance and support from the Office of International Education. For more information about the Fulbright Program, visit https://fulbrightprogram.org/. For a full list of the top producing institutions, click here.
