The Senator Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that are making significant, well-planned, well-executed, and well-documented progress toward comprehensive internationalization—especially those using innovative and creative approaches. There are two categories in which an institution can receive a Simon Award, Comprehensive and Spotlight.

The 2024 application cycle is closed and recipients will be announced in February 2024. Plan ahead - the next application cycle will launch in August 2024.

Comprehensive Award

The Simon Award for Comprehensive Internationalization is granted to a limited number of institutions each year - usually no more than five. The award recognizes overall excellence in internationalization efforts as evidenced in mission, strategies, programs, and results.

  • East Carolina University
  • Georgia State University
  • Northwestern University
  • University of Kentucky

Spotlight Award

The NAFSA Senator Paul Simon Spotlight Award is presented to no more than three institutions that highlight innovative internationalization programs and initiatives.

  • Albany State University for its Curriculum Internationalization initiative
  • Arizona State University for its Afghan Women's Education Project
  • Cedar Crest College for its Carmen Twillie Ambar Sophomore Expedition program

Watch the Acceptance Videos from 2023 Recipients

Past Award Winners

Discover the institutions with innovative international programs.

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Profiles of Success

Review NAFSA’s digital Internationalizing the Campus.

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