Purdue announces new director of International Students and Scholars
Joe Potts (University of Kansas photo)
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Joe Potts has been named associate dean of international programs and director of Purdue University's Office of International Students and Scholars, effective Wednesday (Feb. 1).
Potts previously served as director of International Student and Scholar Services at the University of Kansas.
"We are enthusiastic about Joe because his leadership in managing the complex realm of issues, policies and support services related to international students and scholars will benefit Purdue tremendously," said Michael Brzezinski, dean of international programs. "The Office of International Students and Scholars is responsible for a variety of campus services and programming that assist nearly 8,000 international students and more than 600 faculty and researchers from abroad. Joe's professional experience in understanding regulations, policies and best practices, combined with his proven track record for creating and implementing unique programs for international students, will serve our student population well and also enhance Purdue's reputation."
International Students and Scholars is housed in International Programs, and the office is responsible for assisting international students, faculty and researchers in compliance with federal reporting requirements to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), the U.S. government's international student tracking system; organizing cross-cultural programs and engagement opportunities both on campus and with the community and local schools; directing international undergraduate student recruitment and admissions; and collaborating with other strategic areas such as study abroad and global engagement initiatives.
Potts was at University of Kansas since 1998, and before that he oversaw a similar office and study abroad programs at Fort Hays State University. He also founded the intensive English language program at the university. He earned his doctorate in the history and philosophy of education from Kansas State University in 1998, a master's degree in English as a second language from University of Kansas in 1988, and a bachelor's degree in secondary science education from Kansas State University in 1981.
"Purdue is widely known and respected for its large, diverse international student population and its leadership in international education," Potts said. "I look forward to getting to know the faculty and staff at Purdue and am excited to serve on the great team and continue to build the university's global reputation."
Purdue has the second-largest international student population among U.S. public universities, according to the 2011 Open Door report released by the Institute of International Education. The institute also reported that international students and their families contributed $20.2 billion to the U.S. economy in 2010-11, with Purdue international students and their families contributing more than $219 million to the Indiana economy.
Writer: Amy Patterson Neubert, 765-494-9723, apatterson@purdue.edu
Sources: Michael Brzezinski, 765-494-9399, mbrzezinski@purdue.edu
Joe Potts, jdpotts@purdue.edu