Women Leaders Highlight What Makes Their Schools Stand Out

In honor of International Women’s Day, we talked to some of the stellar women we work with to tell us what’s special about each of their schools. Get an insider’s perspective from this group of dynamic women!

What’s Special About the University of San Diego:

“We treat our students as if they are family,” says Francine Chemnick, the Director of International Programs. “Their success and well-being are of utmost importance to us, and we make it our goal to ensure they are succeeding in and out of the classroom. Because we are a small school, our team chats daily with students but more than about schoolwork, about life outside of school, and their life goals.”

Learn more about the University of San Diego

What's Special About the College of Central Florida:

“The College of Central Florida (CF) sets itself apart by offering students exceptional educational value in terms of quality programs, monetary investment, and most especially service. CF's hands-on approach ensures that each student receives individualized support,” states Lory Ann Coffey, Asst. Director of Admissions and International Student Services.

“CF was recognized by Aspen Institute as one of the Top 150 colleges in the nation for quality and excellence.  It is the sixth time that CF has made this prestigious list. CF also stands out as among the top one percent of four-year colleges in the nation for affordability, making it a highly accessible option for students seeking quality education,” she goes on to say.

“Its largest campus is situated in Ocala, renowned as the Horse Capital of the World. Despite being one of the fastest-growing metros, Ocala maintains its reputation as one of the safest places to live, providing CF’s students with a secure environment in which to pursue their academic and professional aspirations.”

Learn more about the College of Central Florida

What’s Special About QS Quacquarelli Symonds:

“Founded in 1990, QS Quacquarelli Symonds is now the leading global provider of specialist higher education and careers information and solutions,” says Clarisa Figueroa, Regional Marketing Director, Americas Region.

Clarisa goes on to say, “We ensure student candidates have access to helpful tools and the latest independent data and insights so they can make informed decisions about their education. We work with more than 2,000 of the world's leading higher education institutions and more than 12,000 employers, spanning across 50 countries. We provide higher ed services to the students and clients we serve at each academic stage: first degree, master’s, MBA — including executive-level — and early career.”

“Our mission is to enable motivated people anywhere in the world to fulfill their potential through educational achievement, international mobility, and career development,” she summarizes.

Learn more about QS Quacquarelli Symonds

What's Special About Arizona State University Global Launch:

“ASU Global Launch sets itself apart because of its quality of English educators and multiple pathways for students to earn admission to the university. The potential of every student is honored in an environment that best prepares them for an undergraduate or graduate degree,” says Laura Gilbert, Marketing and Communications Specialist.

“Being located in Phoenix, Arizona, sets us apart as well since our technology and engineering industries are growing exponentially. With the presence of companies like Intel and Taiwanese Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and a growing population, our local economy provides opportunities for any student to create a life and career for themselves.”  

Learn more about Arizona State University Global Launch

What's Special About Grossmont College's American Collegiate English:

“American Collegiate English is part of a community college in Southern California,” states Sandy Kuntz, International Student Specialist.

“ACE is unique because it is a small English school, but it is part of a larger campus, a larger community of U.S. and international college students. ACE students can choose to immerse themselves in English for personal development or career improvement, then return home. Or they can continue after ACE to obtain a certificate or degree at the college. Either way, ACE students can experience and enjoy college life, including student clubs and events.”

Learn more about Grossmont College, American Collegiate English

What's Special About the University of Northern Iowa:

“Located in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the University of Northern Iowa creates a welcoming and supportive environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive,” shares Missy Leuthold, Assistant Director of International Recruitment.

“The University of Northern Iowa stands out for its commitment to creating a student-centered community while offering a world-class education and opportunities. The access to opportunities for students to pursue hands-on learning through research, travel, internships, and a vibrant campus life is what truly sets UNI apart,” she goes on to say.

“The faculty and staff at UNI also make the university unique, as these professors and staff members are deeply invested in their students’ success by offering experiences both inside and outside the classroom.”

Learn more about the University of Northern Iowa

What's Special About Global Launch at Arizona State University:

“Global Launch at Arizona State University (ASU) strives for inclusivity, accessibility, student-centered focus, diversity, and adaptive innovation,” says Chloé Martin-Bonneville, Manager of Marketing and Communications.

“ASU's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in Global Launch’s core values. We believe that every student, regardless of their socioeconomic, geographic, or demographic background, should have access to quality education. We break down financial and geographic barriers by reaching students from all over the world and giving them the opportunity to have accessible, quality education.”

Chloé states, “We prioritize student success above everything else. We strive to inspire our students to become globally minded individuals who can positively impact the world.”

“We recognize the unique experiences of our students, faculty, and staff, and our priority is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.”

“As leaders in international training, we believe that innovation and adaptation are critical to success, and we are committed to developing academic and skills development programs that are both innovative and effective,” she asserts.

Learn more about Arizona State University Global Launch

What's Special About Golden West College:

“Golden West College is a truly caring campus with employees who embrace the student-centered philosophy. Each of us goes above and beyond for our students and supports each other in doing so. The supportive environment combined with affordable tuition makes it an excellent place to start the educational journey in beautiful Southern California,” states Kaori Nakama, Director of Center for Global and Cultural Programs.

Learn more about Golden West College

What's Special About Mississippi College:

“As Mississippi College (MC) approaches its 200th anniversary in 2026, our university is both reminded and excited.  We are reminded that our founders erected the main gates with a charge to ‘Depart to share your culture with all mankind.’ It is within this vein of Christian concern for the world that the Office of Global Education exists,” says Mei-Chi C. Piletz, Executive Director/Principal Designated School Official.

“At the same time, we are excited about the future of MC because the campus is growing new programs and erecting new living facilities. International students are finding out that our educational environment and prices are unrivaled. International students are not numbers at MC; they find guidance and care from fellow students, faculty, and staff. MC becomes their home away from home.  Four significant festivals yearly to showcase student cultures: The Autumn Moon Festival, the Celebration of Culture, the Lunar New Year Festival, and the International Festival.”

“The latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report attest to the Office of Global Education (OGE), showing Mississippi College ranks #168 amongst all national universities for percent international students. That’s higher than most Christian universities (i.e., Baylor #194, Union #299), regional big box schools (i.e., Auburn #195), and all public Mississippi universities. Mississippi College has also become a flagship of the HuaYu BEST grant program and Franz Scholarships from Taiwan, placing MC alone in the entire Southeastern US.  MC’s OGE also provides a thriving intensive English program (IEP) — the only one in central Mississippi,” Mei-Chi declares.

Learn more about Mississippi College

What's Special About Santa Rosa Junior College:

“The Santa Rosa Junior College campus is absolutely beautiful,” affirms Teresa Tope, International Student Program Coordinator. “I love just walking around the campus on my breaks. Sometimes I peek in to see the new exhibits in our art gallery or museum or I go to the fourth floor of the library and find a quiet spot to view the rolling hills and vineyards in the distance.”

Learn more about Santa Rosa Junior College