On Wednesday, April 3, the 2013 International Awards Ceremony was held where John Schwille Won the Award for Special Recognition for Promoting International Understanding.

John Schwille, professor and assistant dean for international studies in education at MSU, has been an influential leader in international research and education for 50 years. He is known for his collaborative leadership style and ability to bring out the best in people by encouraging engagement in important and challenging projects.

Since 1972, after initial research on France and French education, one of his primary interests has been in cross‐national studies of educational achievement, primarily in civic education and mathematics. Currently, he is co‐director of the 17‐nation TEDS‐M teacher education in mathematics study, the first international assessment of student learning in higher education based on national samples. He has also worked extensively on international development in education, primarily in Africa, with major projects first in Burundi, then Guinea and now Tanzania. At the same time, he has been a college administrator for over 25 years with responsibilities for developing an international dimension in research, teaching and outreach throughout the college.

Through his “infusion approach to international education” John has managed to involve faculty and students who may not have otherwise worked in international settings. Over the years, John has made a difference in the lives of many students. The alumni from the College of Education, which includes a vast network of international scholars, are quick to share their memories of MSU and the impact “Jack” Schwille had on their professional development. 

As a researcher and scholar, John has made important contributions since 1985. He has promoted international understanding in research and development projects and therefore improved the quality of basic education in countless developing countries. He has written numerous international books, book chapters, articles and technical reports and he has presented at numerous international conferences throughout his careers. Currently, John is a key member of MSU’s multi-college team formed to establish an endowed program for integrated rural development in Tanzania.

A dedicated professor, mentor and fierce advocate for students and junior faculty, John Schwille is most deserving of special recognition for promoting international understanding at MSU and around the globe.