Stronger Together: Working with Federal Relations Officers

By its very nature, the work of senior international officers (SIOs) in the United States extends far beyond the borders of their campuses to the nation’s capital. Many elements of international study are closely tied to the federal government—from visa requirements to financial aid to study abroad.

For senior leaders, building and maintaining a strong working relationship with the campus federal relations officers (FROs) can make a big difference in navigating the ever-changing landscape of government regulations and requirements.

A FRO is an institution’s liaison to the federal government. They are charged with advocating for their institution—including its students, faculty, and staff—and issues that are important to it and higher education in the United States in general. In the context of international education, FROs can help advocate for and provide feedback on policies and regulations that are beneficial to international students and U.S. students studying abroad.

At some institutions, an SIO may not know their FRO—or even know that they should be working together. At others, the two leaders coordinate closely. The latter scenario, say many SIOs, is a result of intentionally building and maintaining this important working relationship.

Lay a Foundation—And Then Build on It

SIOs who currently have a good relationship with their FRO agree that it all begins with identifying and reaching out to the FRO. “The first thing is you have to know who your FRO is,” says Shannon Bedo, director of international and veteran student services at Houston Christian University. She recommends getting to know