Fall 2023: Reflecting on KU's Internationalization Efforts

As our fall semester begins to hit its stride, I am delighted to share our 2022-2023 annual report with you. We have taken a step back to reflect on the impact of our internationalization efforts as a university and assembled a series of stories that we feel reflect KU’s engagement in the world, as well as the depth of our expertise on the world.

Our students, faculty and staff embody a global mindset, a way of seeing the world and our connection to it that underscores our common humanity and shared responsibility to society. This is possible at KU because of our astonishing diversity — diversity of thought, diversity of vision, diversity of experience, and diversity of backgrounds and identities.

Our work and studies span more countries than ever before, just as those who call KU home come from more places around the world than in years past. We have deep and rich partnerships, across KU, as well as with our local, state, national and international communities. We also have an alumni base that extends beyond Lawrence to the farthest reaches of the globe. Those connections keep us informed and engaged, and ensure our work remains as relevant today as ever.

In the pages that follow, you will read about faculty members who exemplify our values as a globally engaged and responsible university. You will learn about staff efforts to bring the world to KU and get KU out into the world. You will find inspiration in the stories of our students, who have not only discovered themselves at KU but found deep purpose in being here. These are stories of transformation, hope and excellence, and I hope they inspire you as they have me.

Our community shows us each day that anything is possible, and it is a great pleasure and privilege to be a part of it. Thank you for all that you do as a member of our community. Please know that you are valued and seen and that the KU you fell in love with continues to be a thriving place of discovery. Our exceptional learning community continues to grow, further internationalize and lift each member as we advance society. We have a great deal of important work ahead of us, but we stand on the shoulders of giants and those giants, you, have made our shared future possible.

Charles A.S. Bankart

KU Senior Internationalization Officer

Posted Oct. 2023