On Wednesday, April 3, the 2013 International Awards Ceremony was held where Carol Downing Towl won the Homer Higbee International Education Award at MSU.

Carol Towl is a living example of the values exemplified by the Community Volunteers for International Programs (CVIP) at Michigan State University. Her services to CVIP and accomplishments have been commendable and she continues to work to bring together different cultures from around the world.

Beginning her journey in 1990 as a Global Festival volunteer, Carol has travelled a long way with CVIP. She was elected chair of the CVIP Speakers Bureau, now called the International Speakers Program, or “I Speak,” in 2006 and since then has helped dozens of schools and organizations fill their international speaker requests. Continuing as the co-chair of the CVIP initiative, Carol has remarkably arranged speakers for 17 schools and 23 community organizations this year alone. Currently, she serves on CVIP’s executive committee and board and also is involved in many other CVIP activities.

A committed and involved leader, Carol has been a strong supporter of the CVIP Scholarship Program and the World Gift Shop at the annual Global Festival.

Her love of education took her to Misawa, Japan where she taught English at the Air Force Dependents School. She later moved in to a career as a teacher in the U.S., teaching mathematics and science in Ohio, East Lansing, Haslett, Laingsburg and Perry. 

Carol has been an inspiration, embodying the qualities of a true global citizen. She has had a significant impact on international students, embracing them as a part of the larger MSU family. 

Carol’s passion for cross-cultural understanding and her eternal commitment towards international students and visitors make her an ideal recipient for the Homer Higbee Award.