Local Connection, Global Opportunity: Seton Hall Engage at the NAFSA Region VIII & X Bi-Regional Conference

“Learn, network, and engage with IE professionals dedicated to advancing the field of international education at the Bi-Regional VIII and X Conference!” That’s exactly what the Office of International Programs (OIP) team did earlier this month at NAFSA’s Region VIII and X Bi-Regional Conference in Philadelphia, PA, held Monday, October 14 – Thursday, October 17.

The annual conference brought together international education professionals from across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. Over three days, attendees representing international student and scholar services, study abroad, enrollment management and academic leadership shared insights, strategies and resources while forging new professional connections.

Among the participants was Andrea Hundley, OIP’s international student advisor and a member of the NAFSA Region X Leadership Team. Representing the New York and New Jersey region, Hundley worked alongside volunteer leaders from other institutions to help organize the event, which drew approximately 468 attendees. She also volunteered at the registration and information tables, welcoming guests and assisting with conference logistics.

Reflecting on her experience, Hundley said, “Being a member of the NAFSA regional leadership team has been invaluable—not only for gaining knowledge in our specialized area but also for connecting and engaging with colleagues from all aspects of international education.”

Beyond her leadership duties, Hundley attended several sessions led by international student and scholar services practitioners. Topics included best practices in STEM OPT work authorization reporting, strategies for handling complex student cases and updates on potential immigration regulations. “The information we learned was extremely useful for expanding our knowledge and improving our work here at Seton Hall,” she added.

OIP’s director, Johanna Pan-Carr, also played a key role at the conference, sharing her expertise in two presentations. She co-presented “Resources in Uncertain Times” alongside Michael Goldstein, a well-respected New York-based immigration attorney and partner at Goldstein and Cheung LLP, and Gwyneth Smith, senior associate director at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. This interactive session utilized scenario-based discussions to explore how international offices can navigate sudden policy changes, drawing on institutional and legal perspectives, as well as regulatory and nonregulatory resources to prepare for uncertainty.

Pan-Carr also joined Thomas Sirinides, director of international student services from New York University, and Meri Price, senior associate director of international services from Johns Hopkins University, for a session titled “Becoming a Principal Designated School Official/Responsible Officer: What to Know, What to Do.” The panel discussed the vital compliance roles PDSOs and ROs play in enabling universities to host F-1 and J-1 students and scholars, offering practical advice and shared experiences for current and aspiring professionals.

“Collaboration and information sharing are essential in international education, especially during challenging times,” Pan-Carr noted. “It’s inspiring to see so many dedicated professionals come together with the shared goal of supporting students and scholars.”

As Seton Hall continues to expand its global engagement, OIP’s active participation in conferences like NAFSA’s Region VIII and X Bi-Regional Conference reflects its ongoing commitment to collaboration, professional growth and serving the international community on campus.

Categories: Nation and World