NAFSA Peer-to-Peer Perspectives

How can ISSS offices develop robust and responsive crisis management plans that are effective for tackling any type of modern-day challenges? In this recording, we will review the 5 C’s of crisis communication to understand a framework that can shape an ISSS office’s response to a crisis. We will speak to Dan Kampsen, Director of Global Safety and Operations at Drexel University, to understand what lessons we can learn from our Education Abroad and Risk Management colleagues that may translate to the work of an ISSS office. Finally, we will also hear from Karen Binger Marshall, Director of International Student and Scholar Services at Appalachian State University, for a discussion and lessons learned from the crisis response on Appalachian State’s campus in the aftermath of 2024’s Hurricane Helene.

Understanding and properly maintaining Public Access Files (PAFs) is essential for every H-1B practitioner. Noncompliance can lead to serious consequences, including debarment from the H-1B program. This community dialogue, held June 25, 2025, began with a brief panel discussion and was followed by an open forum for sharing best practices related to the creation, storage, and upkeep of PAFs. Participants also exchanged insights on institutional procedures for handling public requests to view Public Access Files and for managing both internal and external audits.

On January 29, 2025, NAFSA's International Education Leadership Knowledge Community  held an informative panel on navigating change and building resilient leadership. International education leaders shared strategies for leading through times of transition, offered tools and resources to advocate for international education, and reflected on self-care practices for both leaders and their teams.

According to the PIE News, over 1.3 million Indian students studied abroad in 2004. In the U.S. alone, Open Doors reported a remarkable 23% increase in Indian students enrolling in U.S. institutions. India is now one of the fastest-growing international student markets, with top destinations including Canada, the U.S., the UK, Australia, and Germany. Join our experts for a dynamic discussion on the latest trends in Indian higher education and discover the model practices for effectively engaging with Indian students.

The IEM KC and the Africa SIG partner to discuss current recruiting trends for Sub-Saharan Africa. Join EducationUSA Regional Managers (REACs) Diane Weisz Young and Lisa Maroni;  Phil Agbeko, CEO of Hilltop Global Group; and Stephen Appiah-Padi, Director, Office of Global and Off-campus Education at Bucknell University for a lively discussion about current recruitment opportunities, partnership strategies, and challenges on the continent.