The UNLV campus will be filled with colors, sounds, and celebrations of cultures from around the world in celebration of International Education Week. The activities running Nov. 17-22 demonstrate the university’s commitment to global learning and cross-cultural connection.
Leading that effort is UNLV Global, a team dedicated to advancing the university’s international presence, supporting its diverse community, and fostering global connections that go beyond campus.
For Lindsey Gruber, senior executive director of UNLV Global, this week captures everything her team works hard for year-round.
"We are committed to growing UNLV’s global activities and creating an inclusive, internationally engaged campus,” Gruber says.
A Unified Vision for Global Learning
UNLV Global was established under the leadership of Kate Korgan, acting executive vice president and provost, to bring together the various international programs across campus and serve as the university’s central hub for international initiatives. Today, it houses the offices of International Student and Scholar Compliance, International Success Programs, Study Abroad Programs, International Partnerships, and the English Language Center.
“Our mission is to unify UNLV’s global-facing initiatives and make it easier for students and faculty to access the opportunities that connect them to the world,” Gruber says.
From immigration advising and intercultural programs to study abroad opportunities and language support, UNLV Global aims to empower every Rebel to gain global experience, whether they’re coming from another country or preparing to go abroad.
“UNLV Global leads university initiatives that foster intercultural understanding and global learning. By expanding our study abroad and exchange opportunities, international partnerships, and support for global students and scholars, as well as English language learners, our UNLV Global team advances UNLV’s mission to create a welcoming and internationally engaged campus," Korgan says. "It's wonderful to join with our UNLV Global team to celebrate our thriving international Rebel community during International Education Week, and all year-round."
Supporting International Students and Scholars
UNLV Global’s support for international students and scholars begins long before they arrive on campus. The team assists with pre-arrival planning, housing coordination, and airport transport through programs such as the Global Ambassador Program, which pairs new international students with current Rebels for peer support.
Once on campus, students can join activities that help build community, including Global Thursdays, Success Series workshops, and social gatherings such as Sports Tuesdays and Mid-Week Dinners. These events help international and domestic students connect through shared experiences, conversation, and cultural exchange.
“We host almost daily events that help international and domestic students build connections, share experiences, and find belonging,” Gruber says.
The department also offers ongoing immigration and compliance advising, helping students maintain visa status and take advantage of benefits such as curricular practical training and optional practical training.
Expanding Study Abroad and Global Partnerships
For domestic students looking to explore the world, UNLV Global offers more than 50 study abroad programs in 26 countries through partnerships with the University Studies Abroad Consortium and by collaborating with academic departments to design faculty-led and short-term programs. This gives students flexible opportunities to gain international experience.
“We make global learning accessible to everyone,” Gruber says. “That means helping students find scholarships, affordable options, and programs that fit their academic goals.”
UNLV’s reach extends even further through 57 partnerships across more than 30 countries, supporting joint research, faculty exchanges, and collaborative creative projects. These partnerships strengthen UNLV’s reputation as a globally engaged research institution.
Adapting to Change
As international education continues to evolve, Gruber and her team stay ahead by actively engaging in professional organizations and monitoring policy changes that affect international students and scholars.
“We’re committed to supporting our international community through change. Whether it’s adapting to new immigration policies, expanding success programs, or strengthening partnerships,” Gruber says.
Recent initiatives include the You Belong Here events for the international community, informing them about immigration updates while offering opportunities for social engagement and community support in times of uncertainty.
Over the next several years, UNLV Global plans to expand its short-term study abroad programs, increase international student engagement, strengthen global partnerships, and launch new initiatives, including a UNLV International Alumni Network.
For Gruber, the mission goes beyond logistics.
“We’re building bridges of understanding, one student at a time,” she says. “When you open doors to the world, you open minds."
