KU News Release

Susan Gronbeck-Tedesco appointed interim leader of International Programs

Susan Gronbeck-Tedesco

LAWRENCE — Susan Gronbeck-Tedesco, director of the Office of Study Abroad at the University of Kansas, has been appointed interim associate vice provost for International Programs. Gronbeck-Tedesco has been at the university since 1980 and has been the director of study abroad for the past six years.

The new position was created as a result of a restructuring at KU that brought together the Graduate School and Office of the Vice Provost for Research. International Programs and the Office of Study Abroad, which were part of the Graduate School, will now be led by Gronbeck-Tedesco, who will report directly to Senior Vice Provost Kathleen McCluskey-Fawcett.

McCluskey-Fawcett said Gronbeck-Tedesco’s past experiences with study abroad and her familiarity with all facets of the university have prepared her well for the new position.

“In her 27 years here, Susan has gained a breadth of administrative experience across the university,” McCluskey-Fawcett said. “Study abroad, under her leadership, has grown into a nationally ranked and internationally respected program.”

KU ranks eighth in the nation among public research universities in the percentage of students who study abroad, according to the 2006 Open Doors Report, a national survey of international education produced by the Institute of International Education.

Gronbeck-Tedesco holds a doctorate in film studies from KU and a master’s degree from the University of Iowa.

Nancy Chaison and Angela Dittrich will serve as interim co-directors of the Office of Study Abroad.

A search for a permanent associate vice provost will begin at the start of the fall semester.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues during this transition year as we plan for the new administrative unit for international programs,” Gronbeck-Tedesco said.

-30-

The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.