Colleagues and Friends,
International education has seen its fair share of challenges this past year. Tackling these challenges has required collaboration, dedication and focus – a focus on why we do what we do.
Our mission of “cultivating and advancing global learning, understanding, and connection by leading, supporting, and inspiring global engagement” is more vital than ever in guiding us as we navigate the current landscape.
Our focus on this mission has led to some truly remarkable outcomes this past year, outcomes we’re proud to share with you in this year’s Annual Report.
I am pleased to confirm an increase this fall in both first-time first year undergraduate international enrollment and total international enrollment at the University of Kentucky. We understand the value of a UK education. These new students will gain the skills necessary to tackle the world’s biggest problems and will go on to lead lives of purpose and meaning.
This year, we also reported an overall increase in education abroad participation. International experiences prove hugely impactful for our students, in helping them succeed academically here at UK and in their future careers. But we also see the confidence gained through these experiences. We see previously reserved students come back and become campus and community leaders. We witness students apply for elite internships or fellowships because of their education abroad experience.
A key element in our vision and our mission is the work we do to support faculty. We have recently launched resources for faculty to create and facilitate Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) modules in their courses. COIL modules link together students and classrooms in different countries, bridging the physical distance between students through technology. COIL is an exciting opportunity because it allows students to have an international experience and practice real world teamwork without leaving home.
These wonderful developments would not be possible without the hard work of our staff here in the International Center and the collaboration and support of our colleagues across campus and around the globe.
We know the work of internationalizing the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth. Globalengagement leads to international graduate students assisting in critical breakthroughs in healthcare or toeducation abroad alumni using their experience to start a business which creates jobs for their fellowKentuckians. This is why the work is so vital. This is why, as we enter 2026, this work continues even amidst the challenges.
Thank you for your support this past calendar year. I look forward to continuing our work together this year and in the years to come.