Director of Off-Campus Study Pat Martin recently received the Education Abroad Leadership Award from NAFSA: Association of International Educators for her distinguished work in field of international learning.

"I was honored and excited to learn that I had been nominated, and then somewhat overwhelmed when it was announced that I received the award," says Martin, who was recommended by peers at other higher education institutions. "Since I have known many of the previous recipients of the award and am familiar with their accomplishments, I was humbled to be thought of in this way by my peers."

Martin, who came to Swarthmore in 2009, edited and contributed to the 2017 volume Crisis Management and Education Abroad. She is also active in the national organization, having served as the chair of NAFSA’s education abroad section from 1998 to 1999. The most rewarding part for her, however, is helping students expand their horizons and enhancing their learning by connecting them to educational opportunities across the globe.

"We work with students during a time in their lives when they are doing something very exciting for them," she says. "It's a pleasure to help them identify opportunities for study, research, internships, and community service that support their academic and other personal interests."

The honor has been bestowed upon one recipient per year since 1999 and recognizes professionals with more than 15 years of dedicated service.