About NAFSA
The Marita Houlihan Award for Distinguished Contributions to the Field of International Education
The 2008 nomination process is now closed.
Marita Houlihan, former State Department official, pioneered in the establishment and administration of the Fulbright international student exchange program in the 1940s and ‘50s. She was also instrumental in the development of the U.S. government program for improving the cultural and academic experiences of privately sponsored students through grants to universities and institutions which share this goal, including NAFSA, although she was not a member.This award, established after her death in 1982, recognizes those who have displayed imaginative activity, outstanding personal enterprise, and creative contributions to the field through research, writing, or program development.
Criteria Used by the Awards Subcommittee to Select Nominees
A professional colleague who:- Has contributed to the field of international education and exchange through research, publications or activity which has made a difference to the profession
- Has displayed imaginative activity, outstanding personal enterprise, and creative contributions to the field through research, writing, or program development
- May or may not be a member of NAFSA
- May or may not be directly involved with the everyday concerns of the NAFSA membership
- Through his/her body of work has influenced how international educators act and think about their work
Nomination Procedures
Nominations should be made by a NAFSA member and should describe at least one significant original activity of the nominee with a broad impact on the field of international education and exchange which is worthy of recognition. Nominations must be supported by at least two additional people. The supporters of the nomination need not be NAFSA members. Current members of the Awards Subcommittee, those serving on the Executive Committee of NAFSA, and self nominations are not eligible for consideration. The nomination process is confidential.The Board of Directors recommends that the Awards Subcommittee put forth no more than one name for the Marita Houlihan Award.
