KIE Annual Conference - Ottawa University April 9, 2026
Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. with a light breakfast
Opening and Welcome 9:00 a.m.
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Parking and Meeting Information
Parking - Tauy Jones Hall (Parking Lot located off of 9th and Poplar Streets)
Meeting Location - Gangwish Library / Gibson Student Center (upstairs), entrances are on the north and east sides of the building.
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Parking is free; however, you must display a parking pass in your windshield. The parking pass will be emailed to the address used during registration. If you do not receive the parking pass by April 6, please contact Dr. Scott at cscott@kckcc.edu or (913) 288-7601.
Session A 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
Title: SEVP at a Glance
Presenter(s): Heather Young, SEVP Field Representative – Territory 35 and Bridget Canty, SEVP Field Representative - Territory 23
Description: This presentation will cover the latest news concerning F and M students and schools, notifications on program initiatives, reminders regarding student transfers, best practices for avoiding scams, facts and figures showcasing F and M students and SEVP-certified school data, and helpful resources.
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Sessions B 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Title: "Kansas in Focus: International Student Trends, Emerging Markets, and Regional Insights"
Presenter: Jonathan Lee
Description: Join Studyportals for a data-rich session exploring the latest international student interest trends specific to Kansas. Using real-time insights from Studyportals’ global platform, this session will reveal the top source countries, most searched academic programs (undergraduate and graduate), and key growth and declining markets for Kansan institutions. Whether you're seeking to diversify your student pipeline, understand shifting regional dynamics, or make data-informed marketing decisions, this session will equip you with actionable intelligence.
Title: Identifying Student Need and Administering Scholarships
Presenter: Andrew Freck
Description: This presentation outlines my approach to administering scholarships, explains how institutional policy drives changes to that process, and reflects on opportunities for improvement. At Kansas State, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) awards thousands of dollars in scholarships to international students each spring. Funding comes from a range of sources—including private donors, student government, the alumni association, and ISSS—often with differing priorities and eligibility requirements. Recent changes to protected class definitions and institutional spending targets have further complicated the process, alongside a growing need for flexible emergency funding. Balancing these factors is essential, and I will share my experience and suggestions for improving our approach.
Title: Celebrate the World: An Idea Lab for International Education Week
Presenter: Dr. Candice Scott
Description: Join us for a lively, high-energy conversation where every voice brings something valuable to the table! In celebration of International Education Week, this dynamic roundtable will spark fresh ideas, share real experiences, and explore the impact of international education—plus highlight creative ways campuses are celebrating students from around the world.
Sessions C 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Title: Stronger Together: Collective Advocacy and Engagement for Global Impact in International Education
Facilitator: Carol Solko-Olliff and Baili Zhang
Description: In an increasingly interconnected yet uncertain world, the international education community must work collaboratively to safeguard mobility, expand access, and elevate the global impact of learning across borders. This round table discussion will explore how coordinated advocacy, strategic engagement, and unified messaging can influence legislative priorities and strengthen the field. Through interactive discussion and shared experiences, attendees will leave empowered to take collective action that advances international education and amplifies our collective voice at local, national, and global levels
Title: Education Abroad Roundtable
Facilitator: Savannah Maynard
Description: Join this roundtable for an open and energizing conversation on education abroad. We’ll explore real experiences, challenges, and opportunities—from choosing the right programs to navigating scholarships and ensuring student safety.
Title: ISSSer Roundtable
Facilitator: Maranda Badeaux, Kimberly Diah, and Heidi Staerkel
Description: This will be all things International Student Services related! Who knows where it will take you. This session highlights topics in visa advising, regulatory challenges, travel issues, OPT/CPT, admissions, and overall best practices for DSO. Advisors and campus partners can exchange insights to strengthen collaboration to better serve international students.