Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger (third from left) was at TRU on June 27 to congratulate TRU's International efforts, which won the university three awards in the past few weeks. Joining Krueger from left to right: Mike Henniger, Wes Koczka, Baihua Cadwick, and Larry Peatt.

Thompson Rivers University was recognized by the BC Council for International Education (BCCIE) for its excellence in the field of international education in the province.

Vera Wojna, Cyndi McLeod, two former TRU administrators, along with the annual TRU International Days swept the BCCIE International Education Awards May 30th in Vancouver. TRU won 3 of the 5 awards presented in categories that included all of BC’s post-secondary institutions.

Vera Wojna, who retired from TRU in 2010 was presented with the International Education Distinguished Service Award, recognizing the unique and important accomplishments and contributions of an international educator or member of the community who has ‘led from behind’, who through determined years of service has supported the students, activities and community of the field of international education.

Wojna’s 18 years at the university focused on international student services and internationalization of the entire TRU campus. She has offered her expertise to professional organizations such as British Columbia Council for International Education (BCCIE), Association for Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC), and Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) by either sitting on the board, sponsoring events, or presenting workshops to inspire her fellow colleagues.

Former AVP of International, Cyndi McLeod, now of Royal Roads University, was presented with the Innovation in International Marketing Award, recognizing innovation and success in support of the education export sector in BC and in the marketing of our world-class education system. McLeod spent 10 years at the helm of TRU’s international division, opening the doors to the International Education building in 2005, establishing successful off-shore programming in 7 countries, and participating in the BCCIE pilot initiative that created pathways between private ESL schools and the post-secondary public sector.

TRU International Days was presented with the Outstanding Program in International Education Award, recognizing an institution, district or program with high quality and highly creative programming in international education.

What began 14 years ago as a 1-day showcase of cultural foods and artifacts, but has since developed into a campus-wide program with roughly 80 events spread over 5 days. International Days events have included staff and student presentations on teaching experiences abroad, international research sharing, and celebrations of all aspects of the globally-minded campus and community.