About the Awards
For more than 30 years, International Studies and Programs has presented a series of distinguished awards to recognize individuals who have contributed positive, lasting change across the world through their efforts in international research, teaching and outreach.
2026 Award Recipients
Wei Liao
Professor, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering and Director of MSU Anaerobic Digestion Research and Education Center
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and College of Engineering
Ralph H. Smuckler Award for Advancing International Studies and Programs at MSU
Armando Benitez
Chief Data and Analytics Officer & Head of AI, Bank of Montreal — Capital Markets
Ph.D., Physics (2009); M.A., Physics (2004)
Joon S. Moon Distinguished International Alumni Award
Max Olivero
Assistant Director of Global Support Services, Undergraduate Academic Services
Eli Broad College of Business
MSU Award for Outstanding Service to Education Abroad
Paul Balas
Executive in Residence
Dean's Office, Eli Broad College of Business
Charles A. Gliozzo International Award for Public Diplomacy
Thomas Almer
Community Volunteer
Volunteer English Tutoring Program
Homer Higbee International Education Award
Jana Woerner
Ph.D. Student, Integrative Biology and Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior
College of Natural Science
Homer Higbee International Education Award
Alaina Bur
Assistant Director, Center for Gender in Global Context
International Studies and Programs
Gill-Chin Lim Award for Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation in Global Studies
Steven G. Pueppke
Professor Emeritus and Senior Scientist, Asia Hub
International Studies and Programs
Special Recognition Award for Promoting International Understanding
Songqing Jin
Professor, Agricultural Food and Resource Economics
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Carl K. Eicher International Development Award
Leonora Souza Paula
Assistant Professor, English
College of Arts and Letters
John K. Hudzik Emerging Leader in Advancing International Studies and Programs
Zahrah Resh
Artist
Zahrah Resh Studio, LLC
Glen L. Taggart Award for Community Contributions to International Understanding
Steve Hanson
Vice Provost and Dean Emeritus
International Studies & Programs
Dean's Global Impact Award
