After a national search, Claire Brender has joined Michigan State University as director of international alumni relations. She will work with International Studies and Programs and the MSU Alumni Association.

Claires diverse background and international experience will enrich our efforts to connect with our growing international alumni, said Jeffrey Riedinger, dean of International Studies and Programs. I look forward to her contributions and new ideas that will enhance our connections with alums around the world.

Brender arrived at MSU from Wayne State University, where she was the director of World Bridge, the public affairs, outreach and development arm of the Office of International Programs. As director of World Bridge, Brender identified and cultivated relationships with the international community.

In addition to connecting the university with leadership of the southeast Michigan international community, Brender helped establish and manage the activities of a 15-member board of visitors for the Office of International Programs. Brender has more than two decades of experience in business development, marketing and international relations. She has worked in a wide variety of industries, including banking, engineering and building design. She speaks and reads Chinese, Japanese and Spanish and has worked and lived in China and Japan.

An MSU alumna, Brender holds a bachelors degree in Chinese language and literature. Additionally, Brender holds a MBA in international business and business economics from the University of Chicago.