U-M Leaders Transform Global Education Through Innovative Programs

Each year, thousands of University of Michigan students turn the world into their classroom, benefiting from a diverse array of international education opportunities, thanks to the dedication of U-M faculty and staff.

August 12, 2025

Every year, the University of Michigan (U-M) transforms the world into a classroom for its students through diverse international education opportunities. These range from immersive study abroad programs and language courses to internships and service learning, all made possible by the dedicated U-M faculty and staff who inspire students to immerse themselves in new cultures. The President’s Award for Leadership in International Education celebrates these efforts, connecting students globally. This year, the award honors Cheryl Moyer, Lorenzo García-Amaya, and Scott Riggs for their significant contributions to broadening global learning at U-M.

The award ceremony is scheduled for September 12, from 8:30-10 a.m. in the Rogel Ballroom, Michigan Union. U-M President Domenico Grasso emphasized the importance of global engagement, stating, “Engaging at a global level is a cornerstone of the Michigan experience. Interacting with other cultures and nations builds intellectual capacity and empathy.” New categories this year include Distinguished Service and Rising Professional, recognizing Moyer and Riggs, with García-Amaya receiving the inaugural Rising Professional award.

Empowering the next generation of global health leaders

Cheryl Moyer has been part of U-M for nearly 27 years, co-designing the Medical School’s Global REACH unit and securing over $9 million in grants for research focused on women’s health in low-resource settings. She has mentored 124 U-M students on international health projects across various disciplines. Through the Minority and Health Disparities International Research Training Program, Moyer has enabled 22 students from underrepresented backgrounds to gain international research experience. “It’s our mission to inspire students to make the world a better place,” said Moyer.

Reimagining language learning abroad

Lorenzo García-Amaya, since 2012, has enhanced U-M’s global programs, emphasizing immersive language experiences. He has led 15 study abroad programs in Spain, Argentina, and South Africa, mentoring students in international research. His project, “From Africa to Patagonia: Voices of Displacement,” bridges Michigan classrooms with an Afrikaans-speaking community in Argentina. “I know firsthand how life-changing it can be to engage with the world through education,” García-Amaya stated.

Bridging borders for commuter students: Access for all

Scott Riggs, director of global engagement at UM-Dearborn, has expanded affordable study abroad options for commuter students. He co-developed the Dearborn Discovery Core Study Abroad program in Gdansk, Poland, integrating global learning into Dearborn’s strategic plan. Riggs also supports international students and fellowship applicants, aiming to prepare students for a complex world. “Receiving such an honor is humbling,” Riggs said, emphasizing the importance of opening doors for others.