By Amelia Heymann

Jill Blondin, vice provost for global initiatives in Virginia Commonwealth University's Global Education Office, will serve as the next president-elect - and then president - of the Association of International Education Administrators.

Founded in 1982, the AIEA is the only membership organization dedicated exclusively to senior leaders in international higher education. Elected by her peers, Blondin, Ph.D., will begin a three-year term in top leadership roles on Feb. 18, serving as president-elect for one year - and then as president and past president for a year in each capacity.

Her duties will include helping organize or leading an annual conference attended by leaders from more than 40 countries, as well as serving on leadership committees that address governance, strategy and finance.

"Jill has always been a key leader within the AIEA community, and we are delighted that she will continue this legacy of volunteer leadership as she joins our executive team," said Clare Overmann, chief executive officer. "Her vision, innovation and commitment - among so many other incredible attributes she brings to the field every day - will continue to shine as she helps lead the association through this exciting next chapter."

Blondin connects her expanded leadership role at the AIEA to how VCU has become a leader of global education initiatives, from studying abroad to hosting international students.

"At the very highest level, VCU understands its role as a global institution and the way that global initiatives can change the lives of students in a positive way," Blondin said. "I feel as if my election, in many ways, is a reflection of the power of international education at VCU."

Blondin will be building upon VCU's strong footprint within the AIEA. As president-elect in the year ahead, she will work alongside Paulo Zagalo-Melo, Ph.D., senior internationalization strategist at VCU and the current AIEA president who will soon transition to the past presidency.

"Jill's election to the presidency of AIEA is a result of that dedication and reputation as well as a proof of her unwavering commitment to advancing global education in the U.S. and worldwide," Zagalo-Melo said. "I am thrilled to have Jill assuming this leadership role."

Overmann became CEO of the AIEA in late 2024, and Blondin said she looks forward to supporting new initiatives that touch on fundraising, mentorship and other key areas that spotlight the association's strength to members.

"What's important to me," she said, "is to help develop the leaders of international education in the future."