Tara Braun is returning to Ferris State University as its executive director of the Office of International Education. An alumna, former staff member and area native has accepted the office’s executive director position and begins on Monday, July 10.

Braun grew up in Big Rapids as the daughter of College of Engineering Professor Larry Wagner before earning a Bachelor of Science in Business and a Master of Science in Career and Technical Education from Ferris. She later earned a doctorate in Higher Educational Leadership from Central Michigan University. Braun returns to Ferris from Calvin University, where she was its director of international admissions and immigration.

In previous roles with Ferris’ Office of International Education, Braun was the study abroad manager and was abroad manager and international admissions and immigration coordinator.

“I have received so many greetings and well wishes from my friends on Ferris’ campus, along with peers in international education,” Braun said. “I feel great excitement as I return because of my connections and what I see is real potential for growth in the international student community.”

Braun is the co-founder and chair of Study Michigan, a consortium promoting international education at the state’s two and four-year colleges and universities. She is also active with NAFSA: The Association of International Educators. With the experience of visiting over 30 countries globally in a nearly 20-year career, Braun hopes to bring her track record of steady international enrollment growth at Calvin and positively impact learning on Ferris’ campus and abroad.

“Ferris has great potential in the international market. We can sell the stature of our academic programs and variety of degree paths,” Braun said. “We will also encourage the faculty to resume or explore Study Abroad programs so that any student can build on their worldview and apply that knowledge to their professional intentions.”

Jennifer Hegenauer, the executive director of Research, Planning and Assessment in Extended and International Operations, said Braun’s passion will be an asset to the Office of International Education.

“Her excitement was evident from the beginning, with Study Abroad,” Hegenauer said. “Since then, Tara has consistently expanded her knowledge in all aspects of international education, prioritizing student experiences in her work. Returning to Ferris, she brings even greater expertise, valuable connections, and knowledge that will benefit the entire university community.”

Click Office of International Education for more information about the department and its services.