Dr. Samba Dieng Honored as Senior International Officer of the Year

Dr. Samba Dieng, Associate Vice Provost for Global Engagement at Louisiana State University (LSU), has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Senior International Officer (SIO) of the Year Award by the Institute of International Education (IIE). This annual accolade honors leaders who exhibit exceptional vision and commitment to international education. Winners are chosen by a panel of distinguished global peers.

Jason Czyz, President and CEO of IIE, praised Dr. Dieng’s contributions, stating, “IIE is grateful for Samba’s vision and leadership in the international education field, especially as we share the simple principle that the more international education we have, the more peaceful and vibrant world we will all have.” Dr. Dieng’s recognition comes at a pivotal time for LSU, which is expanding its global presence.

Under Dr. Dieng’s guidance, LSU has implemented transformative initiatives that enhance international engagement. He has provided strategic direction to seven units within the Office of Global Engagement. In collaboration with the American Council on Education (ACE), he led an 18-month strategic planning process that resulted in departmental restructuring, the creation of new leadership roles, and the digitalization of international advising systems.

Driving Internationalization at LSU

Interim Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost Troy Blanchard emphasized that this recognition reflects the university’s commitment to advancing internationalization as a core strength. “We are proud to be operating at the highest level in this space, where the work is ultimately about expanding opportunity and improving student learning,” he stated. Dr. Dieng’s approach prioritizes accessibility and innovative programming, including the Pre-Scholar’s Academy (PSA) Global Learning Program in West Africa and specialized study abroad opportunities for student-athletes and first-generation students.

His initiatives have also expanded to international internships in Central America and LSU’s involvement in the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. Notably, he spearheaded a multi-institutional SIO Africa Engagement initiative, collaborating with over 30 universities across the United States and Africa. This effort was highlighted in The Chronicle of Higher Education.

In addition to the SIO award, Dr. Dieng was recognized as one of the “50 Voices in International Education” in the Americas by the Professionals in International Education (PIE). Under his leadership, LSU also received the IIE Heiskell Award for innovation in strategic partnerships, marking a significant achievement for the institution.

A Personal Journey in International Education

Dr. Dieng expressed that this honor holds special significance for him, as he once arrived in the United States as an international student. “This award carries a very special weight for me; having once arrived in the United States as an international student myself, I know firsthand the transformative power of international education,” he remarked. He emphasized that the success of these programs is a testament to the collaborative spirit at LSU and acknowledges the relentless dedication of his colleagues in the Office of Global Engagement.

The LSU Office of Global Engagement plays a vital role in advancing the university’s global mission by promoting international learning, collaboration, and exchange. Its subunits encompass International Student Services, the International Faculty & Scholars Office, Study Abroad, the Global Community Center, Global Partnerships, and Global Travel, Safety, and Security (GTSS). Together, these units facilitate international student and scholar support, create global learning opportunities, and foster partnerships that enhance the university’s community.

To explore more about the LSU Office of Global Engagement, visit lsu.edu/global-engagement.