Maura McCarthy Honored for Impact on Students Through Study Abroad

Maura McCarthy, International Programs Coordinator, received the NCAIE 2021 Professional Newcomer Award at the organization’s annual conference earlier this month. The award is presented to an individual who is within the first five years of their career and “has demonstrated a significant contribution to the field of international affairs.” Maura was nominated by her colleagues, Kyle Keith and Kory Sanders.

In support of her nomination, former NC State graduate student Christine Lee shared: “Maura’s dedication to students goes beyond those she helps to study abroad. For me personally as I continue on my professional journey, she has set the standard for an ideal supervisor.”

Additionally, Maura was also recently honored in the Employee Dependent’s Tuition Scholarship Fund. Nicolas Wirtz, a former study abroad student, donated in honor of Maura who helped him while studying abroad. The Park Scholar Class committed to donating $21,000 over 5 years to support this fund which provides scholarships to employee dependents.

“I just want to say thank you for helping me through the application process in making my study abroad dreams come true. You helped me live a life-changing experience that brought so much personal growth and fulfillment to my life. On top of that, in times where I might have felt unsafe, I knew I could rely on you at any time on any day. I am forever grateful for the tremendous impact you made upon my experience at NC State and abroad,” says Wirtz. Wirtz is a graduating senior in Electrical and Computer Engineering. He studied abroad in the fall of 2019 and participated in the Hong Kong Polytechnic University exchange program.

“The Study Abroad Office is thrilled that Maura has been recognized for her outstanding student support and impact on student success, especially so early in her career,” says Kim Priebe, Director of Study Abroad.