For over three decades, Belinda Pauley welcomed the world to Virginia Tech

After nearly four decades of building bridges across cultures and continents, Belinda Pauley is closing an important chapter at Virginia Tech. As the J-1 program manager and responsible officer in Global Strategic Services, Pauley has been instrumental in transforming the lives of international scholars and students since 1986.

For the past 10 years, she has managed immigration documentation for visiting scholars and student interns under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. Previously, she served as a Designated School Official in the Cranwell International Center, welcoming international students to campus.

“I’ve enjoyed working at Virginia Tech, specifically with the international community,” Pauley says. “I’m very proud to have been part of the university’s mission in welcoming the best and brightest from around the globe.”

Pauley notes that helping students and scholars navigate life in a new country has been deeply rewarding, offering daily opportunities to learn and build meaningful connections — experiences she’ll miss in retirement.

“I have been able to meet so many amazing people from around the world and made lasting friendships,” she says. “I will definitely miss the visiting scholars, student interns, and their families. I love to hear about their research and learn about their countries and cultures.”

Her transition to Cranwell marked a pivotal moment in her career, as the university supported her development as an immigration advisor. This shift not only advanced her professionally but also created memorable experiences, including organizing hikes to the Cascades for visiting scholars.

As she approaches her official last day on Dec. 31, Pauley looks forward to spoiling her five grandchildren, including her newest granddaughter, who was born this month. She and her husband, Mike, are also eager to embrace the opportunity for adventure with a cross-country RV trip to Alaska — a trip, she says, they’ve been dreaming of for the past 20 years.

“My work at Virginia Tech is done, but I still have a lot more to do,” she says. 

“Belinda has positively impacted the lives of so many students, staff, and faculty — particularly in the international area,” says Jeff Van Doren, director of Global Strategic Services. “We wish her all the best as she begins this exciting new chapter of her life.”