Arcuino named director of international programs

  Friday, June 7, 2013 2:00 AM
  News

Pittsburg, KS

It’s been an exciting few weeks for Dr. Cathy Lee Arcuino.

In late May, she achieved a personal goal of earning her doctorate degree from Colorado State University. Shortly after, she got even better news. Arcuino has been named the director of Pittsburg State University’s International Programs and Services, effective June 10.

Arcuino had served as the program’s interim director since November 2012, when previous director Chuck Olcese resigned to become director of international programs at the University of Kansas. Prior to that appointment, Arcuino had served as the department’s associate director since January 2009.

Arcuino is the co-creator and co-director of PSU’s Global Leadership Institute, which challenges students to develop a global leadership perspective and communicate information in domestic and international settings.

“I am very excited about this new opportunity and look forward to working with our team to build upon, grow and enhance our current international endeavors,” Arcuino said. “I’m incredibly grateful to have this chance to lead such a forward-thinking program at a great institution.”

As director, Arcuino’s primary responsibilities will be to provide leadership to the International Office and Intensive English Program. She will also be tasked with developing and leading execution of international recruitment strategies.

“My vision for PSU's internationalization efforts embraces global awareness and international education, includes a strong commitment to recruitment and retention, and demonstrates how these values will continue to be interconnected with international endeavors on campus and in the community,” Arcuino said.

Dr. Bill Ivy, PSU’s associate vice president for enrollment management and student success, oversees the international office and said Arcuino’s experience and devotion to her field make her an ideal fit for the director position.

“Dr. Arcuino has done a wonderful job since joining PSU’s international office in 2009,” Ivy said. “Her work as associate director and then as interim director has prepared her well for this challenge, and we are very confident that she’ll lead our international program to new heights.”

Arcuino earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Loyola Marymount University in 1999. She earned a master’s degree in education from Framingham State College in 2005.

Prior to joining the PSU staff, she served as co-director of international relations at Otero Junior College in La Junta, Colo. She has also served as the program manager for the International Research and Exchange Board in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, which is one of several professional positions she’s held overseas. She’s also served as a teacher of English as a foreign language in Poland, Thailand, Japan and, as a member of the Peace Corps, in Kazakhstan.

“My passion for working with people around the world has enriched my life mentally, personally and professionally,” Arcuino said. “I have dedicated my career to working in the global community, and I’m incredibly excited about the international programs we have at Pittsburg State.”