Radford University selects Ismael J. Betancourt as chief global officer
Radford University has selected Ismael J. Betancourt to serve as the University’s Assistant Provost for Global Education and Engagement. Betancourt was announced today as the University’s chief global officer following a national search led by Faculty Senate President Jake R. Fox, Ph.D. and assisted by a cross-functional search committee.
Betancourt currently serves as Vice President of Student Life and Auxiliary Services at Upper Iowa University, where he has worked in a variety of capacities since 2012. At Upper Iowa University, he previously served as Vice President for Student Life and International Education and Vice President of International Education. Throughout his tenure at Upper Iowa University, he led the campus’ international operations supporting students in Iowa, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore. Prior to his senior leadership position at Upper Iowa University, Betancourt served as Executive Director of International Education at Xavier University; Director of Education Abroad at Northern Arizona University; and Director and Assistant Director of the Office of International Services at Saint Louis University.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. said, “Ismael has a long history and proven record of success in the area of international education. He has significant experience with admissions, programming and student services in a global setting. I look forward to his arrival on Radford’s campus, his leadership of the Center for Global Education and Engagement and his ability to further the University’s global focus and related footprint.
Search Committee Chair Fox said, “I’m grateful to the Search Committee, who worked so diligently to identify highly-qualified candidates to visit our campus and learn more about the Radford family. Ismael’s campus visit confirmed that he brings the energy and student-centered vision for international education that Radford needs. I am confident that he will be a valuable addition to our campus and work collaboratively with the faculty and others to provide expanded opportunities both at home and abroad.”
Associate Provost for Academic Programs Jeanne Mekolichick, Ph.D. said, “When you talk with Ismael about his work, his passion for international education is palpable. His deep experience has created a level of expertise that will serve Radford University now and into the future. I look forward to working with Ismael, his team and the entire campus community to move our vision for international education forward in meaningful ways in the months and years to come.”
Betancourt said, “I am honored to be selected to serve in this capacity at Radford University. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working on projects and initiatives that have made a positive difference in the lives of thousands of students and their families. As a passionate and long-standing international educator, I cannot wait to become a Highlander and continue this important endeavor in collaboration with the students, faculty and staff at Radford University.”
Betancourt attended Saint Louis University, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an Executive Master of International Business and completed coursework toward a doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration. Betancourt will officially join the Radford family on February 25, 2020.