The University of Central Florida appointed Lisa Beeson as the new managing director for the Global UCF program for international students.
Beeson will manage all operations at Global UCF and continue its efforts to provide exemplary services to international students and ensure their success at the university.
Global UCF is the hub of programs the university offers its international students. The center provides opportunities for international students and enhances UCF’s campus by connecting the university to the world and helping native students develop into global citizens.
Beeson joins the Global UCF team with more than 10 years of experience in international education. Most recently, she was a senior manager at the American Cultural Association in Morocco, providing leadership for English language education, cultural and community service programs to over 30,000 students in 12 cities.
Prior to that role, she served as an English as a Foreign Language teacher at the association. Beeson began her tenure at Global UCF on Sept. 26.
“UCF is an innovative university with a progressive and ambitious vision for their future,” said Lisa Beeson, Managing Director at Global UCF. “Working with the Global UCF team, I look forward to helping students realize their dreams and prepare for their future.”
Beeson received her bachelor’s degree in English from the University of California at Berkeley and her doctorate degree from Tulane University.
“Lisa’s diverse cultural and professional background make her an exceptional candidate to lead the Global UCF team,” said Cynthia Young, vice provost for Faculty Excellence and International Affairs and Global Strategies, which oversees Global UCF.
“Her appointment as managing director is a sign of UCF’s commitment to international student success,” she added. “With Lisa at the helm of Global UCF, I am confident the team will continue creating outstanding and innovative experiences for our students as they transition to the university and life in the United States.”
Having a strong international program is important because it demonstrates a commitment to the comprehensive internationalization of the UCF campus and curriculum. In today’s world, students are competing for jobs globally and understanding multiple cultures is something employers are looking for in their candidates. Students at UCF come from 122 countries, strengthening the cultural competency of native students, faculty and staff.
Global UCF is a joint venture between UCF and Shorelight Education. The student-focused program fosters the development and success of international students to ensure success during their time at UCF and beyond.
Beeson replaces Mary-Kay Haseley, who will now serve as an executive director of regional partner operations at Shorelight Education, overseeing Global UCF and other programs.