The Office of International Education is pleased to announce that NAFSA: Association of International Educators has selected Ashlee Toomey-Flinn, GT director of on-campus internationalization, as the recipient of the prestigious NAFSA Award for Impact in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in International Education for 2023. 

“The NAFSA Award for Impact in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in International Education honors our members who passionately foster these values through their work. Ashlee embodies the spirit of this award,” said Fanta Aw, PhD, executive director and CEO of NAFSA. “At Georgia Tech, Ashlee has forged partnerships with centers supporting LGBTQIA, women, student diversity, civic engagement, disability, new and transfer students, and student health. By strengthening the relationships between her office and these services, Ashlee has transformed how underrepresented communities on campus view and value international education, resulting in their greater participation in it. We congratulate Ashlee for her leadership and look forward to her continued impact on the evolution of our field.”

The NAFSA Award for Impact in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in International Education is given annually in honor of a NAFSA member who has shown sustained commitment to the association’s Mission, Vision, and Values by advocating for the interests of under-represented populations; improving recruitment and retention of under-represented populations; or incorporating diversity training in international education programming.

“By leveraging campus partnerships and utilizing the expertise of colleagues in Student Life, Ashlee has brought international education to the forefront and has enhanced efforts to increase participation of under-represented groups”, said Lorie Johns Paulez, Director of Education Abroad.

Ashlee will be recognized for this achievement during the NAFSA 2023 Annual Conference and Expo this May.

NAFSA is the largest and most comprehensive association of professionals committed to advancing international higher education. The association believes that international education advances learning and scholarship, fosters understanding and respect among people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, is essential for developing globally competent individuals, and builds leadership for the global community.

The complete list of NAFSA awardees is available at www.nafsa.org/awards.