Tessa Zanoni and Ruby Benigno, leaders of North Park University’s (NPU) Office of International Affairs, play pivotal roles in embodying the university’s commitment to its intercultural distinctive. With their combined expertise and passion, they guide more than 300 international students from 55 different countries through the complexities of international education, ensuring a holistic and enriching experience.
Zanoni, who has served as the office’s director for the past two years and previously as its assistant director for four years, leads international student visa advising and manages the university’s study abroad portfolio. “Our office is responsible for helping international students navigate the complexities of their student visa, academics, work authorization and life in the U.S.,” she said.
Their collaboration extends beyond administrative tasks as they engage with the international community at NPU. “We recognize the importance of intersectionality when it comes to addressing the needs of our students as they come with diverse experiences and background that enrich the culture of North Park but also remind us that there is so much we still need to do truly live out the intercultural mission of the university,” said Benigno.
Collaborating with other offices within the Division of Student Engagement, Benigno and Zanoni work to ensure that international students receive the necessary support to be academically successful at North Park University and after graduation. Through events like international student orientation, sessions on acclimating to Chicago winter, and workshops on internship and work authorization, the intercultural distinctive comes alive on campus.
Both Zanoni and Benigno are most proud when they share success stories of their international students, such as those who go on to pursue graduate degrees or receive employment sponsorship upon graduation. “We spend so much of our day-to-day advising students on complex visa regulations, so it’s really rewarding to be able to take a step back and celebrate our students’ many accomplishments,” said Zanoni.
Looking to the future, the Office of International Affairs plans to further enhance the intercultural environment at North Park. Initiatives include expanding study abroad scholarship opportunities to support equity and access to study abroad programs. As NPU grows its international community, Zanoni and Benigno are there to meet the evolving needs of the diverse student body.