International Education blog

Celebrating the International Community

Each year at the International Banquet UWL's International Education & Engagement recoginizes the recipients of the International Student Academic Excellence and Internationalization Award, The Burt & Norma Altman Awards, The  W. Carl Wimberly Founder's Award for International Partnerships, and the Legacy Award.

This year the 2025 Award Reciepients are:

• The International Student Academic Excellence and Internationalization Award recipients are Nashreena Sidhu, Afonso Klein, and Joseph Chan. 
• The Burt & Norma Altman Award recipients are Tammy Fisher for Community Service, Dr. Hongying Xu for University Service, and Marie Moeller for Leadership. 
• The  W. Carl Wimberly Founder's Award for International Partnerships recipient was Lisbeth Reynertson. 
• The very first International Education & Engagement Legacy Award recipient was Jay Lokken.

Read more about their impact below.

Legacy Award - Jay Lokken 

This award recognizes individuals who have made significant, lasting contributions to the field of international education, embodying the spirit of global learning and cultural exchange.

Jay Lokken was a cornerstone of UWL for over two decades, serving as the Director of the Office of International Education. His tenure at UWL also included positions in both UWL Career Services and the UWL Foundation too.  Lokken's leadership was instrumental in the development and expansion of UWL's international education programs. By 2014, he managed nearly 150 international partner agreements, encompassing student and faculty exchanges, study abroad programs, and joint degrees. Under his guidance, UWL saw tremendous growth of our study abroad program, and the university hosted a record 383 international students in one year.

Jay's efforts have built a strong reputation for UWL as a premier destination for students and families from around the globe. He believed that "the global perspective and diversity international students bring to UWL, the community, and Wisconsin are priceless.

A strong advocate for global engagement, Jay supported the travel and professional development of numerous faculty, staff, and administrators. His initiatives have fostered new relationships, maintained existing partnerships, and connected UWL with prospective students, alumni, and their families worldwide.

W. Carl Wimberly Founder's Award for International Partnerships - Lisbeth Reynertson

The recipient of the 2025 Wimberly Award, Lisbeth Reynertson, has made an extraordinary impact on the international programming at UW-La Crosse and the broader community. Originally from Denmark, Lisbeth moved to La Crosse in late 1986. She quickly became a cornerstone of support for newly arrived Hmong refugees through her role as Director of the Friendship Program at the Episcopal Church, providing essential services such as English language instruction, living skills, childcare, and healthcare assistance.

Her journey at UW-La Crosse began with a serendipitous visit to the International Education office, leading to her immediate hiring as a part-time international student advisor. The following year, she secured a full-time position as the foreign student advisor.

One of Lisbeth's notable contributions was the establishment of the La Crosse Friends of International Students (LFIS). This program fostered friendships between international students and American families, promoting cultural exchange and understanding. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the families of international students, she also founded the International Women’s Group, providing a supportive community for women and children.

Lisbeth's dedication to international education extended beyond campus borders, as she traveled globally to recruit new international students, often with the support of alumni. Her efforts have created a legacy, with many international students becoming cherished members of her extended family. 

Lisbeth’s passion for her work and the profound connections she forges with students and colleagues alike have left an indelible mark on UW-La Crosse and the La Crosse community. 

Burt & Norma Altman Award in Leadership - Marie Moeller

Dr. Marie Moeller has significantly expanded UWL's global footprint through her efforts in establishing partnerships with institutions in China, Spain, Germany, Ireland, and France. She has spent many hours working on developing structure across the university for successful cross-college partnership and finessing the finer institutional hurdles. Marie excels at identifying who needs to be involved and how to bring others together. Her dedication to experiential education and expanding international opportunities has enriched the academic and cultural experiences of many at UWL.

Marie’s commitment to mentoring faculty is evident in the guidance she provides, helping her colleagues navigate the complexities of creating impactful and enriching programs. By fostering a collaborative environment, she ensures that faculty feel supported and empowered to bring their ideas to life. Through her own experiences teaching abroad, she inspires others to embrace the transformative power of intercultural learning. Her leadership not only enhances the academic and cultural experiences of students but also strengthens the university's global connections. Marie has paved the way for a more inclusive and globally minded campus community.

Burt & Norma Altman University Services Award - Hongying Xu

Dr. Hongying Xu has made outstanding contributions to international education at UWL. Her faculty-led study abroad, "Getting Immersed in Chinese Language and Culture," took students to Hangzhou, China, for a four-week program in the Summer of 2023. Dr. Xu was a dedicated partner in planning and worked tirelessly with various stakeholders to ensure the program's success.

The program, which she co-designed with Hangzhou Normal University (HZNU) and received partially funding by the American Short-Term Study in China Initiative (ASSCI) scholarship program, offered UWL students an immersive experience in Chinese language and culture. Dr. Xu was one of only eight individuals nationwide to receive the ASSCI scholarship in its inaugural year.  One of her students was even asked to participate in a business competition with Hangzhou students where they selected to compete at a national level and the student was flown back to China (all expenses paid) for the finals.

Dr. Xu's contributions have significantly advanced international education at UW-La Crosse, fostering a global perspective and enriching the academic experience for all.

Burt & Norma Altman Community Service - Tammy Fisher

Every fall, Dr. Fisher and the Screaming Eagles marching band extend a warm welcome to our newest international students with a special performance at the ICE SCREAM Social. Despite the exhaustion from their summer training and the challenges posed by the hot weather, Dr. Fisher and her students consistently deliver a unique and memorable American experience that embodies the spirit of our campus.

Their dedication and enthusiasm create a welcoming atmosphere for international students, making them feel at home from the very beginning. Dr. Fisher’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and inclusivity through these performances is truly commendable. Her efforts not only highlight the vibrant culture of UWL but also play a crucial role in the integration and support of our international student body. Her exceptional service, unwavering support and dedication to enhancing the university experience for all students have left a lasting impact on our campus community.

International Student Academic Excellence and Internationalization Award - Nashreena Sidhu, Afonso Klein, Joseph Chan

This year there are three recipients of the International Student Academic Excellence and Internationalization Award Recipients:

Nashreena Sidhu, from Malaysia who is graduating with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in At-Risk Child and Youth Care. During her time at UWL Nashreena has served as the International Student Organization Vice-President dedicating countless hours to create an open and collaborative community with unwavering dedication, kindness, and fearless leadership. As a student employee for University Centers and previously as a custodial assistant she approaches each role giving 110 percent with pride and humility. She is always willing to jump in and lend a hand and uplift others. As a high achieving student, she also has found time to volunteer in many different ways with infectious energy and unwavering commitment to excellence. After graduation she plans to gain experience in her field of study at her degree level and then start graduate school in Fall 2026.

Afonso Klein, from Brazil who is graduating with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Philosophy and Psychology Department Honors. During his time at UWL he has been a student employee on campus while balancing the demands of his academics and volunteerism. Individuals have described him as hard-working and one of the most caring individuals they had the privilege to work with. He approaches every task with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to learn. He has humility, grace, professionalism, and contagious positivity. He has served as a leader during new international student orientation welcoming new students to campus and building meaningful connections. After graduation he will be starting a master's program in Human and Development Counseling at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College.

Joseph Chan, from Malaysia is graduating with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Outdoor, Recreation, Tourism & Event Management. He is always one of the first students to volunteer and lend a hand. He has served as a leader during new international student orientation welcoming new students to campus, serving as a resource and building meaningful connections. During his time at UWL he has been a student employee in the Outdoor Connection of the REC. His supervisor describes him as the epitome of taking initiative. His passion for the outdoors and building community drives him to great lengths to serve students, the community, and the international population.  His contributions as a mentor and leader will be felt for years after his departure, but something tells us he will remain connected to UWL and to Outdoor Connection in a special way long into the future

2026 Nominations

International Education & Engagement is now seeking nominations for the 2026 awards. If you would like to nominate an individual for any of these awards please visit the UWL Internation Banquet Page.