Life Membership is awarded each year to NAFSAns in recognition of their career achievements in advancing the goals of the Association and of international education and exchange. Individuals become eligible for nomination at the time of their retirement from professional responsibilities in the field of international education. Life Membership is not automatically granted to members who attain emeritus status. Life Members shall receive regular membership privileges and a waiver of annual dues and Annual Conference registration fees. Multiple Life Memberships may be offered each year, subject to Board approval.
Recent Recipients
Mariam Assefa
World Education Services
Mariam Assefa retired as the Executive Director and CEO of World Education Services (WES) in 2019 after 38 years with the organization. Mariam spent her career in international credential evaluation and recognition. She is the author of a 1988 book on the system of education of France and has made...
Patricia A. Burak, D.A.
Syracuse University
After more than 40 years in international education at Syracuse University, Pat Burak retired as director in 2018 from the Slutzker Center for International Services. She continues to be an Assistant Professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, Syracuse University. Pat says "For more than four...
Stephen C. Dunnett
State University of New York at Buffalo
Stephen C. Dunnett is the former Vice Provost for International Education at the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB) and professor emeritus of foreign language education in the Graduate School of Education. He was chief university officer (SIO) responsible for international programs and...
Anita V. Gaines
University of Houston
Anita Gaines retired from the University of Houston in July 2019, accomplishing more than 40 years of service with International Student and Scholar Services. She served as Director there from 1994 until her retirement. Anita was inspired to a career in international education thanks to her...
Heidi Gregori-Gahan
University of Southern Indiana
Heidi Gregori-Gahan has been active in the field of international education for more than 40 years. She will retire in June 2020 as Associate Provost for International Programs at the University of Southern Indiana. At USI, she oversees a comprehensive unit responsible for international recruitment...
Nominate a Colleague
The nomination period for the NAFSA Life Membership Award is November 16, 2020 to February 1, 2021.