Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) continues to shine globally as it celebrates its Fulbright Program participants and international scholars for the 2024-2025 academic year. As a Fulbright Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Institutional Leader, MVSU remains committed to fostering cultural exchange, educational excellence, and global engagement.
This designation, awarded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), recognizes MVSU’s dedication to supporting Fulbright scholars and enriching the university’s international community. The announcement was made before the 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference, hosted by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through HBCUs.
The Fulbright Program continues to bring world-class scholars and educators to MVSU, expanding opportunities for students to engage in meaningful international learning experiences. This year, MVSU proudly hosts a Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence, two Fulbright Language Teaching Assistants, and several Global Undergraduate Exchange (UGRAD) students, all contributing to a rich and diverse academic environment.
Dr. Cheng Yung-Chen (Taiwan), Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence, actively contributes to the Bioinformatics program at MVSU. Expressing gratitude for this opportunity, he shared,
"I am honored to join the Bioinformatics program at Mississippi Valley State University. I am delighted and grateful for the opportunity to teach Bioinformatics courses and collaborate with my colleagues on research endeavors. I eagerly anticipate the upcoming academic year and the contributions we will make together at MVSU."
MVSU’s international community is further enriched by Fulbright Language Teaching Assistants (FLTAs), who play a key role in language and cultural exchange:
- Ms. Anuja Halder (India) is teaching Hindi and embracing the immersive cultural experience of Mississippi. She reflected on her journey, saying,
"It’s been a life-changing learning experience to work as an FLTA at MVSU. Being able to share Indian culture and language while grasping the nuances of American life has been transformative. Mississippi's rustic and warm environment has drawn me closer to people and nature." - Ms. Nour Souissi (Tunisia) instructs Arabic, further expanding MVSU’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
International Students Enriching the Valley Experience
MVSU also welcomes a distinguished group of Global UGRAD exchange students who bring unique perspectives to campus. Among them:
- Ghiyosidin Hakimov (Tajikistan) – Journalism
- Phoyphailin Sisaykeo (Laos) – English
- Abache Yahaya (Niger) – English
- Saraisabel Ruiz Soto (Panama) – English, who shared,
“Being at MVSU feels like finding a second family. Every smile is warm, and every conversation is uplifting. The kindness here turns daily into a celebration of community and joy!"
Dr. Lokesh Shivakumaraiah, Executive Director of International Programs and Special Assistant to the Provost emphasized the importance of MVSU’s collaboration with Fulbright:
"The Office of International Programs continues strengthening its collaboration with the Fulbright Program to promote curriculum and campus internationalization efforts at MVSU. Our partnership with Fulbright enables students and faculty to interact with scholars and educators from across the globe. Departments and faculty interested in applying for the Fulbright program or hosting Fulbright scholars can contact the Office of International Programs at international@mvsu.edu or 662-254-3094."
Additionally, Dr. Abigail Newsome, a key advocate for global education at MVSU, praised the impact of the Fulbright program on both faculty and students, stating,
"Fulbright continues to be a powerful tool in expanding academic and cultural horizons for our university. It brings fresh perspectives and innovative teaching methodologies to MVSU, benefiting students and faculty alike."
MVSU’s recognition as a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader reinforces its growing influence in global education and commitment to academic excellence. The university's mission is to prepare students for leadership roles in an interconnected world by embracing international exchange, fostering innovation, and promoting diversity.
For more information about the Fulbright Program and MVSU’s international initiatives, visit https://fulbrightprogram.org.