#USA #CIEE #South Portland #Michael McRobbie #Indiana University

Michael A. McRobbie Joins CIEE Board of Directors

The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has appointed Michael A. McRobbie, the Chancellor Emeritus and former President of Indiana University (IU), to its Board of Directors. With a career dedicated to global engagement and higher education reform, McRobbie brings valuable expertise to the nonprofit organization that has been a leader in facilitating international study and exchange programs since 1947.

CIEE, founded with the aim of creating cultural bridges across nations, has significantly influenced the international education landscape, helping over one million students from more than 140 countries experience diverse cultural perspectives. McRobbie's election comes as the organization looks to further its mission of fostering cross-cultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

A Legacy of Leadership

Michael A. McRobbie served as the 18th president of Indiana University from 2007 to 2021, during which he spearheaded transformative changes at IU. Under his leadership, the university underwent the largest academic restructuring in its history, leading to the establishment of ten new schools and hundreds of innovative academic programs. He also focused on elevating the university's financial resources, boosting both financial aid and research funding, and significantly enhancing campus diversity.

A champion of international education, McRobbie was instrumental in doubling the number of study abroad participants and expanding IU's global partnerships. He founded the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies in 2012, which has played a pivotal role in promoting global education at IU. The establishment of global gateway offices in key cities such as Bangkok, Beijing, and Berlin further highlights his commitment to international engagement.

Contributions to Higher Education

In addition to his administrative roles, McRobbie has held faculty appointments across various disciplines, including computer science and philosophy. His research efforts have been bolstered by substantial grants totaling over $100 million, underscoring his influence in academia. He has also served on the boards of significant educational groups and played a crucial role in the governance of the Association of American Universities and the Big Ten Athletics Conference.

His contributions have earned him recognition as a fellow in multiple prestigious organizations, including the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, showcasing his impact both in technology and in academia.

Looking Forward

Laura A. Brege, Chair of the CIEE Board, expressed her enthusiasm about McRobbie joining the board, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Michael to the CIEE Board of Directors and look forward to the many ways in which he will help us advance our timeless mission to advance peace in our world through people-to-people exchange programs."

James P. Pellow, Ed.D., President and CEO of CIEE, also acknowledged how McRobbie's experience in technology and philanthropy will enrich CIEE's commitment to democratizing international education for students from all backgrounds. The organization aims to leverage McRobbie's expertise to enhance its capacity to serve students around the globe effectively.

CIEE's long-standing mission to build bridges among people, countries, and cultures is more crucial than ever, and with experts like Michael McRobbie on board, the organization is poised to make significant strides in international education. As McRobbie embarks on this new journey, both CIEE and the students they serve can anticipate an era of enriched global education experiences that align with the complexities of today's world.

For more information on CIEE and its programs, please visit CIEE.org.