Frances Vavrus
Position title: Vice Provost and Dean, International Division
Email: dean@international.wisc.edu
Website
Areas of Responsibility
As dean of the International Division, Vavrus provides leadership across the university for international education and engagement, and for strategic planning and coordination in this area. The dean promotes faculty collaboration and initiatives in international teaching, research and outreach. In this capacity, Vavrus provides oversight for several International Division units, including:
- Institute for Regional and International Studies
- International Academic Programs
- International Faculty and Staff Services
- International Projects Office
- International Safety and Security Office
- International Student Services
- Language Programs Office
Biography
Vavrus is a UW–Madison alum whose research, teaching, and service are in the fields of international education and African studies. She served for two decades as a professor of comparative and international education at Columbia University’s Teachers College and at the University of Minnesota. Dean Vavrus’ career has been profoundly shaped by her experiences as a Fulbright student and scholar in Tanzania, as a Foreign Language and Areas Studies fellow, and as a study abroad student and faculty leader. She brings academic leadership, research expertise, and personal engagement in international education to her position as the senior international officer for the University of Wisconsin–Madison. View full bio.