The University of Tulsa, home to 410 international students from 80 countries, participated in International Student Recognition Day on Feb. 25. The event was hosted at the Oklahoma Capitol by state Rep. Trish Ranson of Stillwater and the Global Oklahoma team.
UTulsa students Kalu Amah, an English doctoral student from Nigeria; Chloé Merlet, a Kendall College of Arts & Sciences exchange student from France; Kwame Mawuenyega Ackah, an MBA student from Ghana; Youssef Ben Jerbania, a Collins College of Business exchange student from Tunisia; and Hana Alebachew Mengist, a computer science master’s student from Ethiopia attended the event with Taylor Jennings and Monica Scott from the Center for Global Engagement. The five UTulsa students were selected for their active involvement as members of the Association of International Students or their completion of the prestigious Global Leadership Program.
The day commenced with the students observing the presentation of the International Student Recognition Day proclamation from the gallery of the House of Representatives. This proclamation underscored the crucial role international students play in Oklahoma’s economy, contributing an estimated $240 million annually, and enriching the state with invaluable global perspectives, innovative ideas, and robust alumni networks.
Following the proclamation, the UTulsa delegation engaged in discussions with individual legislators, including Reps. Tim Turner of Kinta and Neil Hays of Checotah and Sens. Mark Mann of Oklahoma City and Dave Rader of Tulsa (a former Golden Hurricane head football coach). These conversations spanned Oklahoma politics other topics, fostering meaningful connections between the students and state leaders.
The students then joined international peers from across Oklahoma for a barbecue lunch at the Judiciary Center. Afterward, they participated in a group photo session and a tour of the capitol building. The day concluded with the students observing a Senate session, where they witnessed a bill debate, gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process.
This event highlighted the significant contributions of international students, like those from UTulsa, to the state of Oklahoma, reinforcing the value of global education and cultural exchange.