Mapping our impact: 26 stories, 24 countries, a world of global engagement

From students making the local news in Switzerland to a 55-country research consortium, the depth of international engagement and intercultural learning at Virginia Tech is breathtaking. The 24 stories curated in this newsletter offer just a glimpse of the work happening across the world. 

Meet the new face of international travel safety at Virginia Tech

Elizabeth Morrison, Virginia Tech’s new assistant director of global safety and risk management, is the go-to resource for international travel safety — from risk mitigation to emergency response. 

Learn more in this Q&A and discover how her global experiences shape the way she supports Hokies abroad.

Virginia Tech's international engagement recognized by APLU

The university earned international recognition from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU). 

The 2025 International Impact Award recognizes Virginia Tech for its initiative to help faculty universitywide bring global perspectives into their teaching, open new pathways for international and virtual collaborations, and prepare students to become globally engaged citizens in an interconnected world.

Behind the gallery: Hear from the winners of the Global Education Study Abroad Photo Contest

After rounds of judging and voting, five students are named the winners of the Global Education Office 2025 Photo and Video Contest. 

From September to November, 11 finalists were featured in Newman Library, where students voted for their favorites. 

Each winning photo and video offers a glimpse into study abroad life — and a story worth sharing. Explore what these moments mean to the students behind the lens.