By Jeff Murphy,
February 26, 2016
WARRENSBURG, MO – Joy Stevenson, Ph.D., director emerita of the University of Central
Missouri International Center, has been appointed to serve as one of two public members
on the 13-member Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). Recognized
by the Secretary of the United States Department of Education, CEA is a specialized
accreditation agency focusing on intensive English language programs and institutions
serving students in higher education around the world.
Stevenson was appointed based upon her expertise with comprehensive international
education strategies in U.S. higher education. Public members ensure that CEA governance
is sound and that accreditation decision-making is fair and transparent. Her three-year-term
of service is from Jan. 1, 2016, to Dec. 31, 2018.
CEA currently accredits 300 programs and institutions in the U.S. and abroad. UCM’s
English Language Program was the first university-affiliated intensive English program
accredited in the state of Missouri (initially in 2010 and most recently in 2015 valid
for 10 years).
Honored for her work with international students, Stevenson retired as director emerita
of the International Center in 2014. Her 31-year career at UCM began as an international
student advisor, in addition to teaching in areas of archaeology, higher education
administration and academic enrichment. She served as interim director in the areas
of specialized services and international admissions and held positions that included
director of international student scholar services and interim director and director
of international programs. She has recruited UCM students and built positive relationships
with university friends and supporters across the globe.
Stevenson in May 2014 was recognized by NAFSA: Association of International Educators
as recipient of the Homer Higbee Award for Distinguished Service for her decades of
service to the organization. The same spring, she also received UCM’s John Paul Mees
Award for Outstanding Professional Staff, the highest honor given to a member of UCM’s
professional staff.
