Spring 2025 / Around the Green

International Students at Wilson College

By Muskan LNU

This fall, Wilson College welcomed 12 international students from all over the world. Students from countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and more joined the Wilson community and the Wilson campus quickly became a second home for this culturally diverse group of students, some were here for a semester as exchange students, while others will stay to complete a four-year degree program.

This is what international students at Wilson College have to say about their experience:

“I found a sense of belonging here.” – Vu, Vietnam

“I made lifelong friendships at Wilson College.” – Manal, Saudi Arabia

“I was delighted to learn about various cultures.” – Ivan, Montenegro

“I found good friends here.” – Hamida, Afghanistan

“I am thankful for every opportunity provided to me here.” – Homaira, Afghanistan

“It was a life-changing experience for me.” – Catrin, Indonesia

“I found a family here.” – Marta, Panama

“Coming to Wilson College hasn’t just been a journey to discover new people but also to discover myself.” – Arij, Tunisia

“At Wilson College, I have cherished the vibrant international community, the unwavering support, the inspiring professors, and the tight-knit campus that feels like home.” – Anaida, Armenia

“I learned a lot about Americans—they’re so different from how they are portrayed in Hollywood films.” – Nash, Taiwan

“I cherish the opportunity to form friendships with people from around the world.” – Marta, Armenia

“Even though my time here passed in the blink of an eye, the memories will stay with me for a lifetime.” – Muskan, Pakistan

The international students bring fresh perspectives and inspiring ideas to the Wilson community. Having them attend Wilson provides a better understanding of diverse cultures and every international student adds uniqueness to campus life in countless ways as they become part of the Wilson College family.

Flook Brings International Experience to New Role

Sarah-Jane Flook began working this fall as the new coordinator of student engagement and international scholar services. Originally born and educated in the UK, Flook pursued a career with the British Diplomatic Service that spanned 26 years. She and her husband, a former U.S. Marine, have traveled to over 50 countries and lived in 12 different locations, including Nigeria, Angola, Uganda, Costa Rica, Argentina, Kuwait, and Australia.

Her experience helps her understand how it feels to be an expatriate, which she brings to her new role working with Wilson’s international students. She said, “I’ve been overseas in just about every category you can imagine. And there have been times when I’ve been really lost, and I always describe it as feeling so lost you don’t even know what questions to ask.”

Flook’s previous work includes working overseas at embassy locations in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. Most recently, she worked in the U.S. as program coordinator for the Maryland School for the Deaf Foundation. She holds a foundation, or associate, degree in event management and earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Derby in the United Kingdom in 2024.

Wilson Weekend: A Student’s Perspective

By Muskan LNU

Nearly 400 alumnae, alumni, family, and friends joined students on campus in mid-October for Wilson Weekend. The event featured several receptions, soccer and baseball athletic events, crafting events at the barn, food trucks, the annual parent’s brunch with the president, BBQ & Brew, golfcart karaoke, and spooky evening entertainment.

As an exchange student from Pakistan, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Wilson Weekend, but it turned out to be way more interesting than I thought. There were activities that were completely new to me, and luckily, one of my friends from Pakistan who is also studying in the U.S., joined me for the weekend, which made everything even more fun.

The women’s soccer team took a quick selfie before riding the wagon from the Hankey Center parking lot to their game at Kris’ Meadow on Saturday afternoon.

We kicked off the first day with golf cart karaoke. I joined my international friends, and since I had the chance to choose the music, I obviously went with Bollywood! It immediately reminded me of home and made the whole experience more personal. The next day, we had a “Scarecrow Make and Take” (though I made mine with full enthusiasm, I forgot to take it back to my dorm!). It was such a new experience for me—I’ve never made or even seen a scarecrow in real life. But since I got the chance, I went all out and made what was probably the cutest scarecrow ever. Honestly, I doubt it would scare any crows—if anything, it might attract them!

Coming from a country where cricket is the main sport, I don’t know much about football—sorry, I mean soccer! But as a cultural exchange student, I didn’t want to miss any opportunities, so I joined in. It was fun, even

The men’s soccer team rode the wagon from the Hankey Center parking lot to their game at Kris’ Meadow on Saturday afternoon. though I didn’t really understand the game.

The men’s soccer team rode the wagon from the Hankey Center parking lot to their game at Kris’ Meadow on Saturday afternoon.

Lastly, since it was the Halloween season, Saturday night featured an event called “Summoning Spirits”, a combination of a seance and a magic show. Written and performed by Peter Boie, this interactive experience brought to life old legends and haunted stories by using multimedia, magic effects, and masterful storytelling. This was the most fun part of the weekend for me, as I had never experienced anything like that before. It was such an eye-opening and unique weekend, full of things that were completely out of my usual routine, and I loved every bit of it!

Lastly, since it was the Halloween season, Saturday night featured an event called “Summoning Spirits”, a combination of a seance and a magic show. Written and performed by Peter Boie, this interactive experience brought to life old legends and haunted stories by using multimedia, magic effects, and masterful storytelling. This was the most fun part of the weekend for me, as I had never experienced anything like that before. It was such an eye-opening and unique weekend, full of things that were completely out of my usual routine, and I loved every bit of it!

Representatives of the Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) met with recipients of the animal-studies scholarships made possible by a TERF grant, during the Donor Recognition Event on Friday evening. (left to right) Former Trustee James A. Orsini, Kendi Long ’26, Regina Snyder ’26, Trustee Margaret H. Duprey , Michelle Miller ’21, and Natalie Cowdrick ’22.

Far right: Judi Wolf ‘25 and Magic escorted the soccer teams to their games and carried the US flag for the National Anthem.

Beyond Her Expectations

By Sandra Huffman ’86

Muskan LNU presented information about Pakistan during the Muhibbah Sampler Night in November.

Muskan and her friend from Pakistan (also studying in the U.S.) attended Wilson Weekend and made a scarecrow during the barn events.

The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program in Pakistan (Global UGRADPakistan) provides emerging youth leaders from diverse communities across Pakistan with the opportunity to attend American universities and colleges for non-degree academic study. Out of 36,000 applicants, Muskan LNU was one of 110 students selected for this program and Wilson became her home away from home this fall. She said, “When I first stepped onto American soil, it hit me—I had made it.”

As a linguistics major at her home college, she opted to take literature courses at Wilson because it was an opportunity for her to learn about America through American literature. As part of the UGRAD-Pakistan program, Muskan needed to complete community service which led her to writing for this issue of the Wilson magazine.

Muskan ultimately plans to pursue a master’s degree in linguistics. Since returning to Pakistan, Muskan is using social media to share her knowledge about the UGRAD program, answer questions, and provide advice for other students interested in applying to a UGRAD program.

Getting into the Holiday Spirit!

By Muskan LNU

Wilson College is not only dedicated to its academics but also takes pride in celebrating holidays with enthusiasm.

The Annual Halloween Spooktacular kicked off the season as students, faculty, and staff gathered in the science center for a costume dance party in late October. Then, a Trunk or Treat night sponsored by WCGA invited all campus clubs to share candy and spooky activities with the Chambersburg area community.

This year, with the change in the academic calendar, White Dinner was held in early November, but the change in date did not make it any less special. The 2024 theme was “Red Carpet Movie Premier”—complete with paparazzi, senior names featured on stars, a photo station, and, of course, seniors dressed in white. The event was an elegant evening filled with memories and camaraderie.

The Thanksgiving Dinner at Wilson College has always been a unique and enjoyable event. One of its highlights is the active involvement of faculty and staff who serve dinner to the students. This gesture strengthens the friendly bond between students and those who support them throughout their time at Wilson. For international students, Thanksgiving Dinner was an especially memorable experience. Since many had never celebrated Thanksgiving in their home countries, it provided an opportunity to enjoy a home-like celebration on campus.

In December, the College joined the festive spirit of the Christmas season by entering a float in the Chambersburg Christmas Parade. The entire town lined the streets to enjoy the parade, and Wilson students, faculty, staff, and administrators enthusiastically represented the College, chanting “Happy Holidays from Wilson College!” to the crowds. It was a joyous moment that showcased the vibrant and inclusive spirit of Wilson.

Cultural Exchange Program Grants International Student a Life-Changing Wish

By Muskan LNU

Nguyen presented information about Vietnam during the Muhibbah Sampler Night in November

Wilson College welcomed Dai Vu Nguyen this fall as an exchange student from Vietnam through the Global UGRAD program. Arriving in August, Nguyen joined the campus for a semester-long academic and cultural exchange. For Nguyen, however, coming to Wilson wasn’t just about studying in a new environment—it became a life-changing experience that reconnected him with a longlost family member.

From a very young age, Nguyen often wondered what life would have been like if he had experienced the unconditional love of a grandmother. Listening to his friends talk about their grandmothers made him question: How would her love feel? What would it be like to be spoiled by her? Or, if nothing else, what would it be like to see her for the first time?

After the Vietnam War, Nguyen’s grandmother moved to the United States. Financial constraints prevented Nguyen’s family in Vietnam from visiting her, and she faced similar challenges. Throughout his life, Nguyen had never met his grandmother—not in person nor virtually, as she wasn’t familiar with modern technology. It wasn’t just Nguyen who missed out on seeing her; his father hadn’t seen her either since the Vietnam War. The only connection Nguyen had with his grandmother were the red envelope letters she sent during Christmas, which he cherished deeply. These letters weren’t just communication—they were symbols of her love, that traveled all the way from the U.S. to Vietnam.

Students in the World Learning UGRAD Program received a visit from the program coordinator Melanie Winters. Left to right: Winters, Vu Nguyen (Vietnam), Ivan Kujovic (Montenegro), Catrin Rumondang (Indonesia), and Marta Phillips Montero (Panama).

Life, however, took an unexpected turn. In August, Nguyen was selected for the Global UGRAD program for Vietnamese students, and the number one thing on his wish list was to finally meet his grandmother in the U.S. He promised himself that he would visit her during the fall break. But, as life often goes, things didn’t turn out as planned.

Wilson’s international students checked were excited to visit many area attractions in the fall, including Hershey Park.

Just a month after arriving in Pennsylvania, Nguyen received a call from his aunt, who lives with his grandmother. She told him that his grandmother’s health had worsened and that visiting her would mean a lot. That was all Nguyen needed to hear. The very next day, he booked a flight from Pennsylvania to California. Everyone at Wilson College, from his host advisor to his friends, supported him in every way—from arranging the flight to getting him to the airport, even at midnight. As Nguyen stated, “It wouldn’t have been possible for me to meet my grandmother if my friends and professors here at Wilson hadn’t helped.”

And then, after 19 years, Nguyen saw his grandmother for the first time. Not only was it a reunion for him, but his father also got the chance to speak with his mother for the first time in decades through a video call. Nguyen described it as the happiest and proudest moment of his life. This cultural exchange program didn’t just connect cultures across the world—it brought a family together.

Wilson’s international students checked were excited to visit many area attractions in the fall, including Luray Caverns in Virginia.

Unfortunately, just days after their reunion, Nguyen received the heartbreaking news that his grandmother had passed away. While attending her funeral, he found comfort in knowing that he was able to meet her.

Nguyen’s time at Wilson College has been so much more than an academic experience. It has been a deeply personal journey of reconnection and healing. “You will always be missed, Grandma,” he said, carrying with him the memories of their reunion and the bond that will forever remain in his heart.

Rising Above: We Rise Campaign Soars

Have you heard the amazing news? Thanks to your generosity and support, Wilson’s We Rise campaign has surpassed the initial goal of $16 million AND exceeded the stretch goal of $20 million! However, we are not finished yet. In true Wilson fashion, we plan to finish strong.

President Wesley R. Fugate, Ph.D. is thrilled with progress thus far. “What the Wilson family has already achieved is nothing short of remarkable, but we must not rest on our laurels. We must continue to dream bigger and rise higher.”

At a time when small colleges across the country are threatened, it is important for students and parents to see the successes happening at Wilson. Prospective students need to feel the momentum and long-term viability of the College and embrace the education she offers. Each of the priority focus areas of the We Rise campaign were selected with this in mind – the key areas that can help move Wilson forward. Each priority directly supports providing an outstanding Wilson education, rooted in the liberal arts and sciences, and will help to ensure students today, and for decades to come, are able to benefit from Wilson’s personalized student experience.

Scholarships

At the heart of Wilson is our commitment to providing access to an affordable, quality education for all students. And, while Wilson has taken steps to maintain a competitive tuition rate, the availability of state and federal financial aid has not kept pace with the cost of attaining a college degree.

Growth

Initiatives These dollars will directly support future academic and co-curricular programming. To remain relevant in the competitive world of higher education, we must continue to evolve and refine our offerings to ensure Wilson meets the academic requirements and personal needs of current and future generations of students.

Faculty & Staff Support

Recruiting and retaining outstanding faculty and staff are key to the College’s future success and longevity. We must also ensure they have access to the technology, resources, and facilities required to deliver a quality Wilson education.

Debt Reduction

Fund Over time, Wilson has amassed a significant debt load due to various capital projects, a challenging amount for a college of our size. In addition, the debt requires meeting challenging covenants, further limiting our institution.

Wilson Fund & Unrestricted Giving

Yearly gifts to the College’s annual fund have long been how alumnae, alumni, parents, friends, and students demonstrate their commitment and support of Wilson. This focus area gives Wilson the most operational flexibility, allowing the institution to respond as needed, when needed, to unanticipated needs.

So many of our alumnae, alumni, and friends have stepped forward and made significant gifts to the We Rise campaign, and we thank you. We are especially grateful for those who have chosen to offer inspiration (and motivation) to the Wilson community with financial matches. Thank you all for leading the way.

“As we enter the final stage of the campaign, we must finish strong. While we have achieved our overall campaign goal, I know together we can go further in support of Wilson. You can help us rise above the goal by making a financial gift to our spring Wilson Fund drive,” shared Angela Zimmann, Ph.D., CFRE, vice president for Institutional Advancement.

If you have not joined us in supporting the We Rise campaign, you still have time. The campaign will officially conclude at midnight on June 30, 2025. Aim higher and dream bigger on behalf of and for Wilson. Help us achieve a conclusion to the We Rise campaign that defies expectations. Make a gift today.

Visit www.wilson.edu/ways-give to learn how you can contribute to the We Rise campaign.