Mara Flamm, Ed.D.

International Student and Scholar Advisor

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Biography

Dr. Mara Flamm, Ed.D has had a remarkable career spanning more than two decades in international education, marked by deep dedication, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to student success.

From 2007 to 2024, Mara served as the Director of International Programs at The University of the Arts (UArts), where she played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s international landscape. In that capacity, she led the full scope of services for F-1 and J-1 international students and scholars — providing regulatory advising, designing and delivering innovative programming, advocating for students across institutional layers, and ensuring SEVIS compliance and policy implementation. Her work consistently reflected her core belief in building a supportive and inclusive environment where international students could not only thrive academically, but feel truly seen and valued.

In addition to immigration advising, Mara’s impact extended across global engagement initiatives. She managed the university’s study abroad programs, exchange partnerships, and faculty-led travel, helping to cultivate a global mindset within an arts-focused education. One of her signature achievements was the co-creation and faculty leadership of UArts’ English Language Program, a uniquely interdisciplinary curriculum that blended English language learning with the visual and performing arts — making it one of the most distinctive offerings in the country.

Mara is not only a seasoned international educator, but also a proud Penn alumna, having earned her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) in Reading, Writing, and Literacy from the Penn Graduate School of Education (GSE) in 2017. Her research, advocacy, and professional practice continue to center around empowering multilingual students, building inclusive communities, and supporting learners from around the globe.

What makes Mara truly exceptional is the heart and humanity she brings to her work. She is known by students and colleagues alike as a generous listener, a creative problem-solver, and a tireless advocate. Her commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding, paired with her academic grounding and regulatory expertise, make her a tremendous asset to Penn Global.

Mara is incredibly excited to be a part of the Penn Global ISSS team where she looks forward to deepening international student support, enriching the advising model, and further advancing Penn Global’s mission of strengthening global engagement across our campus and around the world.