Adem Althor honored with statewide award for excellence in international student advising

Adem Althor, executive director of Global Engagement at Oakland University, has received the Scott Cooper Award for Excellence in International Student Advising from the Michigan Association of International Educators. He was nominated for the honor by David Archbold, director of the International Students and Scholars Office at OU.

The award recognizes professionals who have made significant contributions to international student services through sustained commitment to advising, professional development and mentorship. Recipients must have at least five years of experience in the field and demonstrate exceptional dedication to supporting students.

Althor has worked in international education for more than 12 years and has advised thousands of students throughout his career. His work centers on helping international students navigate a wide range of challenges, including academic, immigration and personal issues, while supporting them in reaching their educational and professional goals.

“Advising international students is difficult work because of the wide range of issues our students face — cutting across academics, immigration, personal, professional and social concerns,” Althor said. “But helping these students overcome challenges and achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding.”

Althor said his approach was shaped in part by a lesson he took from his first NAFSA conference in 2015. He remembers that one of the keynote speakers, Malcolm Gladwell, emphasized a point that has stuck with him: the most powerful people in a university are often not the president, provost, or deans, but the faculty and staff who meet with students regularly. That idea reinforced Althor’s belief in the critical impact of advisers and faculty on student success.

MAIE Chair Adem Althor with Past Chair Jonny Porter

“I’ve met thousands of international students over the last 12 years,” Althor added. “These are remarkable individuals who have taught me a great deal.”

In addition to receiving the award, Althor was recently named chair of MAIE and will lead the organization through its upcoming 65th annual conference, scheduled for next March in Frankenmuth. He has been involved with MAIE since 2019, including serving in a leadership role focused on international enrollment management.

The Scott Cooper Award highlights the impact of those working directly with students and the important role advising plays in student success. Althor’s recognition reflects ongoing efforts at Oakland University to support and engage its international student community.