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The Hugh M. Jenkins Award for Excellence in Community Programming recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting global understanding and international exchange in the local community. Specifically, it honors people who exemplify a spirit of volunteerism and a long-term dedication to international exchange. The award identifies individuals whose leadership encompasses outstanding skills in recruiting, training, and recognizing community volunteers. It is also intended to reward personal involvement with international students/scholars/dependents in the local community.

The nomination period for the 2025 Hugh M. Jenkins Award for Excellence in Community Programming will be announced in the fall. All KC ISSS members are invited to submit nominations for the award.

Selection Criteria

The nominee must have:

  • commitment to promoting global understanding and providing for international exchange in the local community;
  • spirit of volunteerism and a long-term commitment to international education and exchange;
  • excellence in leadership for recruiting, training, and recognizing community volunteers;
  • active participation with international students/scholars/dependents in the local community.

Nomination Procedure

Each nominee must have the following:

  • One primary nomination form
  • Two additional references (their names, organizations/institutions, daytime phone numbers, and e-mail addresses)

The recipient of this award will be announced by KC ISSS leadership in conjunction with the NAFSA Annual Conference and Expo.

Questions? Please contact NAFSA's International Student/Scholar Services team.

Cynthia J.K. Smith

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Cynthia Smith's photo
University of Arkansas - Fayetteville
Cynthia Smith is the Assistant Director of the office of International Students and Scholars at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Her focus is to work with programs that connect the international students with the campus and community. Cynthia started working officially in International...

Wesley Blood, MDiv

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Wesley Blood
Northwest Ohio Baptist Association
Wes moved from the Boston area to Toledo, Ohio in 1991, where he served as pastor for nearly 13 years. During that time, he followed in the footsteps of his parents, and began to befriend international students. This series of friendships opened his eyes to the unique needs of people traveling from...

Jonathan GoldbergBelle, PhD

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Jonathan GoldbergBelle
University of Illinois Springfield
Jonathan GoldbergBelle, PhD, serves as director, study away programs at the University of Illinois Springfield, and previously served in director roles in the offices of International Programs and Internships, International Programs, and International Affairs. For over 30 years, GoldbergBelle has...
All Past Recipients
Criteria for Selecting Nominees
Selection Information