2024 UW Excellence in Global Engagement Award Nominees

Director of Global Initiatives, UW Bothell

Natalia Dyba is a visionary leader and advocate for global engagement at the University of Washington Bothell (UWB). As the Director of Global Initiatives, she has pioneered initiatives to internationalize the curriculum and expand opportunities for students and faculty alike. Natalia’s most significant impact lies in her establishment of the UW-wide Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiative, which facilitates virtual exchanges with international partners, offering transformative global learning experiences to students who may be place-bound. Under her leadership, participation in COIL has surpassed traditional study abroad programs, demonstrating its effectiveness in reaching a diverse student population. Natalia’s efforts have positioned UWB as a leader in virtual exchange pedagogy, garnering national attention and attracting external funding. Additionally, Natalia has cultivated a culture of Fulbright participation at UWB, supporting students, faculty, and staff in their pursuit of Fulbright opportunities and elevating the campus’s recognition as a Fulbright Top-Producing institution. Her innovative approach to global engagement has not only enriched the educational experiences of UWB students but has also strengthened the university’s international presence and impact.

Co-Executive Director for the Center for Environmental Forensic Science and Research Scientist, School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, UW Seattle

John C. Hermanson is a Research Scientist at the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle. Thanks to his ability to obtain an affordable (at the time), nerdy education and cross-disciplinary mentorship and research experience, John is at the frontline of combating illegal logging; developing innovative technology and empowering a global next generation of scientists. His expertise spans from his tenure at WSU, USDA Forest Service, another UW, to his current role, where he was a founding Co-Executive director of the Center for Environmental Forensic Science, a global multidisciplinary collaboration aimed at addressing transnational conservation crimes. John is the developer of a handheld device for field wood species identification, ArborTron, and is pivotal in supporting a global collaboration system  to combat illegal logging. With a dedication to both academic excellence and practical application to create positive environmental impact, John seeks to make significant contributions to environmental conservation and fostering the next generation; at UW and abroad.

Associate Director, Study Abroad, Office of Global Affairs, UW Tacoma

Courtney Kroll is a dedicated educator and advocate for inclusive international education, recognized for her commitment to diversity and equity in global engagement. Holding an M.Ed. in International Higher Education from Loyola University Chicago, with a B.A. in French and Elementary Education from Albion College, Courtney’s extensive experience includes advising and managing study abroad programs at institutions like the University of Washington Tacoma and Marquette University. Her innovative approach integrates identity-based advising strategies, pre-departure orientation programs, and scholarship workshops to make study abroad accessible to underrepresented student groups. Courtney’s passion for social justice extends beyond campus borders, as demonstrated by her advocacy for Native American students and the development of identity-based study abroad programs. Through publications, presentations, and workshops, she actively contributes to the advancement of inclusive practices in international education, striving to decolonize traditional models and empower students to engage authentically with global experiences.

Project Director, International Clinical Research Center, Department of Global Health, UW Seattle

Meighan L. Krows is a seasoned clinical research professional dedicated to advancing global health initiatives through her extensive expertise in clinical research management and international collaboration in Eastern and Southern Africa. With a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington, majoring in Infectious Diseases: Public Health and Community Medicine, and holding certifications as a Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) and in Project Management (ACRP-PM), For over 16 years, Meighan has played pivotal roles at the International Clinical Research Center within the Department of Global Health at the University of Washington. She made major contributions to the Partners PrEP Study, which contributed to FDA approval of HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, and the DO ART Study, which demonstrated better HIV outcomes through community-based HIV care. These high impact studies significantly influenced global HIV policy. From her current position as Project Director to her past roles as Clinical Trials Coordinator, Meighan’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes is evident. She is strongly committed to fostering equitable, transparent, impactful global health practices, and capacity building with global health colleagues. She serves as Chair of the Decolonizing Global Health Working Group and spearheaded development of the Decolonizing Global Health Toolkit. She is committed to improving global public health and has made invaluable contributions to global health.

Associate Director, Graduate Program in Sustainable International Development and Associate Director, Barer Institute for Law & Global Human Service, UW Seattle

Jennifer Lenga-Long, currently serving as the Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Sustainable International Development (SID) and the Barer Institute for Law & Global Human Service at the University of Washington School of Law, has dedicated over a decade to fostering global engagement and academic excellence. Through her transformative guidance, she has empowered a diverse cohort of students, ranging from aspiring lawyers and advocates to mid-career professionals from low-and-middle income countries. Jen has also taught seminar and experiential courses at UW Law and has worked to support students in their research, writing, and advocacy related to human rights and sustainable development. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she mentors students, supervises research projects, and facilitates professional opportunities both domestically and abroad. Drawing from her extensive legal background and experiences in human rights advocacy, Jen cultivates an inclusive learning environment that amplifies the voices of international students and connects them with global partners. Her impact resonates not only through the achievements of her students but also in her unwavering dedication to promoting justice, equity, and community building on a global scale. Jen’s nomination for the UW Excellence in Global Engagement Award is a testament to her exceptional contributions and the profound difference she makes in the lives of her students and the broader community.

Regional Program Lead, International Training and Education Center for Health, UW Seattle

Ruth Levine is a seasoned global health program director with over two decades of experience at the University of Washington (UW), spearheading initiatives funded by PEPFAR to combat HIV/AIDS in Eastern and Southern Africa. With a focus on Zimbabwe for the past decade, Ruth led a dedicated team in expanding access to HIV-related clinical services across hundreds of clinics and hospitals, demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills. Her efforts resulted in the successful formation of an independent non-profit organization in Zimbabwe, marking a significant shift in program ownership and sustainability. Ruth’s inclusive leadership style fostered a culture of collaboration and empowerment within her team, driving impactful outcomes and nurturing the growth of individuals and organizations. With a rich background in program management, strategic planning, and partnership development, Ruth has left an indelible mark on the global health landscape, embodying the principles of sustainability and resilience in her work.

Research Scientist, School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, UW Seattle

Suzanne Peyer, a Research Scientist at the University of Washington’s School of Environmental & Forest Sciences, is known for her pioneering work on the global impact of Arbor Harbor, a Trees to Trade Framework. With a passion for sustainable consumption, Suzanne and her team delve into the intricate web of global supply chains. Collaborating with the USDA Forest Service International Programs and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Suzanne co-developed Arbor Harbor for evaluating the legality of trees in trade for Lacey Act implementation. Her efforts extend beyond academia; Suzanne mentors graduate students and fosters collaborations with other early career professionals in government and non-government organizations, such as the World Resources Institute, on projects that complement the Arbor Harbor system and enhance forest legality worldwide. Suzanne’s innovative approach has garnered recognition as a leader in environmental science and through Arbor Harbor, her mission is clear: to empower stakeholders with the knowledge to make informed decisions, safeguarding our planet’s precious ecosystems for generations to come.

Program Manager, The eDNA Collaborative, School of Marine & Environmental Affairs, College of the Environment, UW Seattle

Cara M. Sucher is a seasoned leader at the forefront of global scientific collaboration and innovation. With a background in chemical engineering and oceanography, Cara’s career has spanned pivotal roles at esteemed institutions like the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Antarctic Program. As Program Manager of The eDNA Collaborative at the University of Washington, Cara is pioneering efforts to democratize access to environmental DNA analysis worldwide, empowering researchers to address pressing environmental challenges. Her visionary leadership, commitment to equity in science, and passion for bridging gaps in research make her a driving force in shaping the future of environmental conservation.

The award is the highest recognition for UW faculty and staff who make significant contributions to global engagement at the University of Washington.