Three Walker College of Business community members—two faculty members and one graduate student—have earned global leadership awards from Appalachian State University’s Office of International Programs.
The awards were presented during the university’s Global Symposium on November 20, 2024.
Kazi Samina Afroz, Graduate Student Global Leadership Award
Kazi Samina Afroz, a graduate student pursuing an MS in Applied Data Analytics in the Walker College, earned a Graduate Student Global Leadership Award.
Afroz was honored for her remarkable dedication to promoting cross-cultural understanding and global engagement on campus.
Through her role as a Cultural Ambassador, she has shared her Bangladeshi heritage in activities across campus, enriching the App State community’s appreciation of diverse cultures.
Additionally, she has contributed to international research on sustainable practices in the Global South, emphasizing the importance of global citizenship.
Afroz earned a BBA and an MBA from North South University in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Charlie Chen, Faculty Global Leadership Award
Dr. Charlie Chen, a professor of computer information systems, earned a Faculty Global Leadership Award.
Chen joined App State’s faculty in 2003 and has distinguished himself through years of dedication to fostering international education and research collaboration. With a focus on creating transformative experiences for students, he has led numerous study abroad programs across Asia and Europe, enriching students' perspectives and global awareness. His efforts have also established vital institutional partnerships with universities worldwide, broadening App State’s global network and opening new avenues for collaborative research.
"We are sincerely thankful for his contributions, not only in service to our university but especially for the lasting impact he has made on our global community," said a presenter.
Chen holds a Dean’s Club professorship and is a past recipient of the Walker College’s Sywassink Award for Excellence in Research.
Martin Meznar, Global Impact Award
Dr. Martin Meznar, associate dean for global and civic engagement in the Walker College, earned one of three inaugural global impact awards, for the profound mark he has left on App State and its community.
“As a first-time traveler out of the country, I found him to be an outstanding leader who guided us with patience and expertise,” said a nominator. “His leadership not only enriched the experience but also eased the challenge of traveling abroad for the first time.”
“[His] ability to connect with local communities and institutions has not only enhanced the program's quality, but has also given the students the opportunity to engage in meaningful, real-world scenarios,” said another nominator. “This is a testament to the profound impact he has had on my academic journey and the journeys of other students.”
Meznar, raised in Brazil, has led international opportunities at the Walker College of Business since 2008. Previously, he taught at Arizona State University and the University of Victoria, in British Columbia. He holds a Ph.D. in International Business from the University of South Carolina.
About Walker College of Business International Programs
The Walker College of Business encourages students to study abroad and provides a variety of short-term international programs designed to develop international business skills and intercultural knowledge. These faculty-led programs have proven to be invaluable for many students. Scholarships are available. Fluency in a second language is not required and students can earn credit toward their degree. For more information on future opportunities, contact Global & Civic Engagement Specialist Meredith Church Pipes, churchmm@appstate.edu, or visit international.business.appstate.edu.
Three Walker College community members earn awards for global citizenship
From left are: Kazi Samina Afroz, Charlie Chen, Martin Meznar