July 29, 2024
Sara Thurston to leave in August for Northwestern University
Submitted by Office of International Programs
![](http://www.k-state.edu/k-publisher/custom-images/2024/Jul/2024-Jul-26_1431_05-thursto.jpg)
Sara Thurston, director of International Student and Scholar Services, will leave Kansas State University in August after accepting the position of director for International Student and Scholar Services at Northwestern University, in the Chicago area. Thurston leaves after nearly 17 years of service to the university.
"Sara was one of the first people I met here at K-State and has always put international students and international scholars first," said Grant Chapman, associate provost for international programs. "Sara is active and visible around K-State advocating for and serving international students and international scholars; she is also a national leader within international education through her leadership and involvement with NAFSA: Association of International Educators."
The Office of International Programs will host a reception for Thurston in appreciation of her service to K-State and to wish her well at Northwestern University. The reception will be from 3-5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, in the Frith Community Center in the Jardine Complex. Remarks will begin at 4 p.m. RSVPs are appreciated.
Express your well wishes via this Kudoboard link.
Stacey Bailey will serve as the acting director of International Student and Scholar Services effective Monday, Aug. 5. Bailey has been with International Student and Scholar Services for 21 years in various roles and is a champion for the international community.
"I am so delighted that Stacey has accepted the offer to lead the International Student and Scholar Services office in the interim," said Chapman. "Stacey is well known at K-State for serving international students and scholars."