From a podcast interview with Randy Kluver, the Associate Provost and Dean at Oklahoma State University

“To justify the university's international engagement, you must often expand your activities and initiatives. This includes building new alliances, creating innovative programs, and securing new funding sources.”

Introduction

In this enlightening episode, Randy Kluver delves into the importance of expanding the mission of international engagement offices to achieve tremendous success. Through his own experiences, he emphasizes the need for SIOs to innovate, advocate for their roles, and seek out new opportunities to elevate their impact within the university. By sharing compelling examples like the Afghan Family Project and strategic partnerships in global trade, Randy illustrates how thinking outside the box can lead to transformative outcomes in serving the community, building relationships, and securing funding for international programs.

Key Takeaways

• Randy Kluver highlights the significance of seizing opportunities and being proactive in expanding the role of international engagement offices within universities.
• The Afghan family project is a powerful example of how universities can address humanitarian crises, support refugees, and fulfill their public service mission while gaining recognition and funding.
• Establishing dedicated personnel and robust systems for monitoring and responding to emergencies is essential for effective risk management in study abroad programs.
• Strategic partnerships, such as those in global trade and diplomatic initiatives, can amplify the impact of international programs, enhance student experiences, and establish long-term value for the university.
• Success in advocating for international engagement stems from building trust, demonstrating tangible outcomes, and leveraging existing resources to create innovative solutions.
• Embracing a forward-thinking approach, seeking collaboration across departments, prioritizing visibility, and building relationships can lead to sustainable growth and recognition for international offices.

Reviving Dormant Programs and Embracing Strategic Partnerships

In the dynamic landscape of higher education, adaptability, and innovation are crucial for success. Randy's journey exemplifies the transformative power of reviving dormant programs and embracing strategic partnerships. He amplified the university's global footprint and academic offerings by recognizing the potential of underutilized resources, such as the Center for International Trade Development. He aptly says, “We were severely underfunded, but when the university recognizes our work, they provide the necessary support.”

Strategic partnerships play a pivotal role in enhancing the impact of international engagement initiatives. Randy’s collaboration with the state of Oklahoma in supporting Afghan refugees showcases the tangible outcomes that arise from proactive engagement with key stakeholders. By leveraging the university’s resources to address immediate community needs, such as language instruction and job training, Randy fulfilled the institution’s public service mission and garnered vital funding and support. This proactive approach benefits the targeted beneficiaries and strengthens the university’s reputation and relevance in the broader community.

Navigating Geopolitical Challenges and Building Trust

In an era of geopolitical uncertainties and shifting priorities, universities must navigate complex terrain to uphold their international commitments. Randy’s emphasis on fostering trust and collaboration with various stakeholders, including the State Department and honorary consuls, underscores the importance of building enduring relationships in times of change. By actively engaging in initiatives like export control frameworks, universities can contribute valuable expertise while safeguarding their global interests.

The key to success lies in staying ahead of the curve and anticipating future opportunities. Randy’s approach of “looking around the corner” echoes the proactive mindset needed to drive innovation and growth in international engagement. By seizing opportunities before they fully materialize and advocating for strategic investments, SIOs can position their departments as indispensable assets within their institutions.

Embracing a Dynamic and Inclusive Vision for Internationalization

In conclusion, Randy Kluver’s transformative journey offers valuable insights for SIOs seeking to expand their mission for greater success. By reviving dormant programs, cultivating strategic partnerships, and navigating geopolitical challenges with foresight and collaboration, SIOs can elevate their role and impact within their universities. Embracing a dynamic and inclusive vision for internationalization, grounded in proactive engagement and strategic foresight, is critical to unlocking new opportunities and driving positive change in the higher education landscape.

To catch the full interview with Randy, CLICK HERE.