Kurt Tischler

J. W. George Ivany Internationalization Award - Fall 2002

The J. W. George Ivany Internationalization Award was established to recognize the extraordinary contributions of a member of faculty or administration toward the internationalization of the University of Saskatchewan. This is awarded annually at convocation. The 2002 winner is Mr. Kurt Tischler, Director of International Student Office.

Since 1985 Mr. Tischler has been the Director of the International Student Office. Over the course of his service to the University of Saskatchewan and particularly to international students, he has initiated numerous programs. The International Friendship Program, (in cooperation with Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship) currently matches 185 Canadian families with 220 international students. Over 130 international students access the Oral English Program, which provides spoken English assistance. The Spouses Program supports the spouses of international students with English language development skills and cultural adaptation. In addition, orientation and special programming for international students is conducted under Mr. Tischler's guidance.

Mr. Tischler's initiatives have impacted positively on the academic environment of the university and which have broadened our global perspectives. He is co-founder of the Forum of Saskatchewan International Education and Development (FOSIED), which started in 1987 as an information exchange regarding international education issues and opportunities. Through his efforts Mr. Tischler has fostered understanding between the international student body of the University of Saskatchewan and the local community.

Mr. Tischler has demonstrated exemplary dedication to international students at the University of Saskatchewan. Along with his regular duties, it is not unusual for Mr. Tischler to respond to an early morning call at home from a new student at the train station. Without hesitation he can be found meeting newly arrived students at 4:00 a.m. and assisting them with their transition to life in Saskatoon.

Mr. Tischler's commitment to international and intercultural understanding is highly regarded within the University and surrounding community. His compassion, sincerity and understanding have made him a counselor and friend to many. In his nomination for this award it was noted that he understands international students and provides quality support and programming for them. He tries to ensure that this understanding extends throughout our campus, thus giving our university a truly international environment.