ISSS Awards
Models of Excellence
The International Student and Scholar Services team has been repeatedly recognized for its dedication to bringing the world to Penn, bringing Penn to the world, and forging new inter-office partnerships by developing a range of engaging, holistic programs. The Models of Excellence recognizes notable staff member accomplishments at Penn that reflect initiative, leadership, increased efficiency, and a deep commitment to service.
2021 Models of Excellence Award:
20 members of the the International Student and Scholar Services team were honored as recipients of the 2021 Models of Excellence Award for “delivering exemplary relationship building and educational outreach with departmental staff and coordinate solutions with departments, while consistently improving practices that solve problems for our international community”.
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2018 Models of Excellence Award:
In 2018, 13 members of an interdisciplinary team were bestowed the Models of Excellence Award for their collaboration in facilitating ILP, the Intercultural Leadership Program, “a transformative initiative designed for both international and U.S. students, fosters intercultural leadership through a weekend retreat that explores themes such as cultural humility, power and privilege, and self-awareness“.
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2018 Model Supervisor Award:
ISSS Executive Director Dr. Rudie Altamirano was also recognized in 2018 with the Model Supervisor Award, “given to Penn supervisors who demonstrate exemplary behaviors and serve as outstanding role models.“
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ISSS Honoring Excellence in Global Engagement
ISSS Honoring Excellence in Global Engagement: The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) recognizes outstanding students, administrators, and advocates who contribute to a more welcoming, globally connected Penn community.
Celebrating Exceptional International Engagement: Through a series of prestigious awards, we celebrate those who demonstrate exceptional dedication to international engagement, collaboration, and support for the international community at Penn.
Penn Global Student Citizenship Award
This award is presented annually to a graduating international student—one undergraduate and one graduate—who has exemplified a spirit of global citizenship during their time at Penn.
Award Criteria and Recognition: Recipients are recognized for their proactive involvement with ISSS programs, positive influence within the Penn community, engagement in local initiatives, and contributions to global causes. Honorees receive a trophy and are acknowledged across various platforms, with their names displayed on a plaque in the ISSS office.
Awarded annually at the International Student Graduation Reception
2025 Graduate Winner
2025 Undergraduate Winner
2024 Graduate Winner
2024 Undergraduate Winner
2023 Graduate Winner
2023 Undergraduate Winner
2022 Graduate Winner
2022 Undergraduate Winner
2021 Graduate Winner
2021 Undergraduate Winner
2020 Graduate Winner
2020 Undergraduate Winner
2019 Graduate Winner
2019 Undergraduate Winner
2018 Graduate Winner
2018 Undergraduate Winner
2017 Graduate Winner
2017 Undergraduate Winner
2016 Undergraduate Winner
International Student Advocate of the Year (ISAY)
The ISAY Award recognizes a Penn administrator whose voice, vision, and values champion the success and well-being of international students across our campus. Through advocacy, empathy, and partnership, this individual exemplifies what it means to say—and live—support for Penn’s global community every day.
They don’t just speak for international students—they listen, uplift, and act with purpose so every student feels they belong.
Awarded annually at the Fall IPOG Meeting
2025 Winner
Associate General Counsel
Office of the General Counsel
2024 Winner
Senior Associate Dean
Education and Global Initiatives
2023 Winner
Associate Director of Federal Affairs
Office of Government and Community Affairs
2022 Winner
Director of Integrated Care Initiatives, Student Health and Counseling, Wellness @ Penn
2021 Winner
Senior Associate Dean
Undergraduate Admissions
Penn Administrator Partnership Award (PAPA)
The PAPA Award recognizes Business Administrators whose partnership, diligence, and advocacy exemplify excellence in supporting H-1B employees and J-1 scholars at Penn. Their professionalism and collaboration make them invaluable partners in advancing Penn’s global academic mission.
They make the complex simple, the technical human, and the international possible.
Awarded annually during the Business Administrators Town Hall
Model Administrator for Mobility and Access (MAMA)
The MAMA Award honors Admissions and Student Services professionals who demonstrate exceptional support for the F-1 and J-1 student experience. Through their compassion, coordination, and commitment, they help international students thrive and make Penn a welcoming global community.
They turn transitions into connections and open doors for global belonging.
Awarded during the Annual Admissions Meeting
2025 Winner
Director, Dual Degree Programs
Wharton MBA Academics
ISSS Enduring Impact Award (IEIA)
The IEIA award acknowledges exceptional contributions by business administrators with a minimum of 10 years of continuous service.
Recognizing Sustained Commitment: Awardees demonstrate sustained commitment to collaborating with ISSS, particularly in facilitating the recruitment and support of foreign nationals under F-1, J-1, and H-1B visa programs. This award celebrates individuals whose enduring dedication has significantly enhanced the integration and support of international scholars within the Penn community.
Awarded during IPOG as merited for exemplary long-service contributions.
2024 Winner
Manager, Personnel and International Affairs
Smilow Center for Translational Research