UTulsa Sets New Record with 11 Gilman International Scholars

TULSA, Okla. – January 09, 2026 – The University of Tulsa has announced a historic achievement, with a record-breaking 11 students receiving the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. The cohort secured a combined total of $34,500 in grants, which will fund transformative academic experiences in countries across the globe, from Europe and Asia to South America.

This milestone not only represents a significant accomplishment for the individual students but also highlights the university's growing success in fostering global citizens and securing competitive national awards. The scholarships provide critical financial support, enabling students who might otherwise face financial barriers to pursue life-changing study and internship opportunities abroad.

The Gilman Advantage: More Than Just a Scholarship

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, is one of the nation's most competitive and sought-after awards for undergraduate study abroad. Its core mission is to democratize international education by supporting a diverse population of students, particularly those with high financial need. To be eligible, all applicants must be recipients of the Federal Pell Grant.

Beyond its focus on financial accessibility, the Gilman program seeks to broaden the spectrum of students who study abroad and the destinations they choose. It encourages applications from first-generation college students, ethnic minorities, students with disabilities, and those in underrepresented fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This national initiative aims to cultivate a generation of American leaders equipped with the cross-cultural skills and global awareness necessary to navigate an interconnected world and advance U.S. national security and economic interests.

Receiving a Gilman Scholarship provides more than just funding, which can be up to $5,000 per student. Scholars become part of a distinguished network of alumni and, upon completion of their program, receive 12 months of noncompetitive eligibility (NCE) for federal government jobs. This special hiring status gives them a significant advantage in pursuing careers in public service. Furthermore, each scholar is required to complete a "Follow-on Service Project" upon their return, sharing their experiences to inspire others in their home communities and on campus to pursue similar opportunities.

A World of Opportunity: The Journeys Ahead

The 11 UTulsa recipients represent a wide array of academic disciplines and personal ambitions. Their chosen destinations span ten different countries, reflecting the diverse interests and global mindset cultivated at the university. Seven students will utilize their grants for faculty-led travel courses, while four will embark on semester, summer, or year-long programs.

Andrea Taylor, a sophomore from Tulsa majoring in Spanish and biochemistry, will travel to Spain. "Winning this award is an incredible honor and a meaningful affirmation of the work I've put into my academic and personal growth," she said. "The opportunity to go abroad means expanding my perspective in ways that aren't possible inside a classroom. It gives me the chance to immerse myself in a new culture, challenge myself in unfamiliar environments and develop independence, adaptability and global awareness."

Taylor's journey is one of many unique paths. Oswaldo Atilano, a junior nursing student, is heading to Peru to gain insights into global health. In a push toward critical regions in Asia, Angel Gutierrez, an international engineering and language student, will study in Thailand, as will biology senior Harrison Schwichtenberg. Meanwhile, Aiva P. Liman, a cybersecurity sophomore, and Jennifer Luna, a psychology senior, are bound for China, with Luna also studying in Japan. Bristie Rahman, another cybersecurity senior, will also study in China, reflecting a growing interest in understanding the technological landscape of East Asia. Business information systems junior Vung Kop will gain experience in India, a rapidly growing global economic power.

Two students earned special supplemental awards for their focus on high-priority fields. One recipient received the Gilman-STEM Supplemental Award, which provides an additional $1,000 for study in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field. Another, Alexis Watson, an international science and language student, received the Gilman-DAAD Supplemental Award for her program in Germany, a recognition offered in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service. The remaining scholars include Kasra Iranpour, a mechanical engineering junior studying in Belgium and the Netherlands, and Michelle Jones, a music senior who will travel to Italy.

A Blueprint for Success: UTulsa's Global Engagement Strategy

This record-breaking number of Gilman scholars is no accident. It is the result of a concerted, strategic effort by The University of Tulsa's Center for Global Engagement (CGE), which provides robust support for students navigating the complex application processes for national scholarships. The CGE's work in advising, mentoring, and assisting students with their essays and project proposals has proven instrumental in their success.

The university's achievement reflects a deep institutional commitment to internationalization. By actively promoting programs like the Gilman scholarship, UTulsa ensures that study abroad is not a luxury reserved for a select few but an accessible and integral part of the undergraduate experience. This aligns perfectly with the Gilman program's mission to diversify the population of students who go abroad.

This success positions UTulsa as a leader among its peer institutions in promoting global learning opportunities. By empowering students from various socioeconomic backgrounds and academic fields to engage with the world, the university is not only enriching their individual educations but also enhancing the intellectual and cultural vibrancy of its own campus community. The diverse destinations chosen by the scholars—many of which are outside the traditional Western European track—demonstrate the success of efforts to broaden students' global horizons.

The Ripple Effect: Why International Education Matters

The impact of these 11 scholarships extends far beyond the individual students and the university campus. In today's globalized economy, employers increasingly seek candidates with cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability, and a nuanced understanding of international markets and societies. The experiences these students will gain in countries like China, India, Germany, and Peru will directly translate into a competitive edge in the workforce.

The supplemental awards in STEM and for study in Germany further underscore the strategic value of international education. Fostering expertise in high-tech fields and strengthening ties with key economic partners are critical for national prosperity. These students will return not just with academic credits but with practical skills and a global network that will benefit them throughout their careers.

Moreover, the Gilman program's "Follow-on Service Project" requirement ensures that the benefits of these experiences are multiplied. Upon their return, the 11 scholars will become powerful advocates for global education within the Tulsa community and beyond. They will share their stories in classrooms, at campus events, and through community outreach, inspiring a new wave of students to look beyond their own borders. This cycle of mentorship and inspiration is vital for building a sustainable culture of global engagement and ensuring that future generations of students are prepared to lead in an increasingly complex world.