2020 Graduation Awards
Clark Coan Leadership Awards
Named after Clark Coan, who directed the Office of International Students for 33 years, this award recognizes exceptional student leadership.
John (Changhong) Liu
Doctor of Philosophy, Mechanical Engineering
John (Changhong) Liu served as a YOU at KU orientation leader, graduate ambassador at the KU School of Engineering and vice president and social chair of the Graduate Engineering Association.
Fenqi Wang
Master of Arts, Linguistics
Fenqi Wang served on the board of the International Student Association for multiple years, as well as the KU Student Senate as the international student representative and as a YOU at KU orientation leader.
Fatimah Al-sinan
Bachelor of Science, Architectural Studies
Fatimah Al-sinan served as a YOU at KU orientation leader, AEC conversation group leader and member and leader of the KU Korea Student Association, Japanese Student Association, Chinese Student and Scholar Friendship Association, KU International Women’s Association, and Global Leaders.
Charles Olcese Per Aspera Award
Named in honor of retiring ISS director Charles “Chuck” Olcese, the award pays homage to the Kansas State motto Ad Astra Per Aspera, to the stars through difficulty, and honors a student who has shown perseverance.
Muna Hano
Doctor of Philosophy, Civil Engineering
During Muna Hano’s time at KU, she faced a number of challenges including the loss of funding from her home government and delays in completing her dissertation with the departure of her primary advisor, all while caring for her family.
NEXUS Award
Encouraging inclusiveness and appreciation of intercultural activity and learning, the Nexus Award honors a U.S. citizen who has worked to promote international student integration and friendship at KU.
Katherine McGaughey
Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
Bachelor of General Studies, Psychology
Katherine McGaughey has served as the cultural chair of the International Student Association, member of the International Leadership Team, a You at KU orientation leader, president of the Global Partners Association and a member of the KU International Women’s Association.