Thomas Tyner, associate vice chancellor for Global Engagement at UNC Pembroke, has been selected for the Fulbright U.S. International Education Administrators (IEA) Program in France for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The IEA program is a prestigious initiative fostering international partnerships and enhancing global understanding through education. Jointly funded by the United States and French governments, the program brings together higher education leaders to explore collaboration, research and exchange opportunities. For Tyner, the experience is both professionally strategic and deeply personal.
The project holds both professional and personal interest for me, Tyner said. France and North Carolina have historically shared strong business ties. Over 84 French companies currently have offices in North Carolina, especially in the high-tech and biotechnology sectors, and many collaborate with institutions in Charlotte and Raleigh. Im eager to explore how we can bring these opportunities to our region.
France also holds a special place in his heart.
I had the opportunity to study abroad at Sorbonne University as an undergraduate. Being from rural southeastern North Carolina, my time in France profoundly affected me it was life-changing. Im excited to work with French institutions interested in providing similar transformative experiences for 51勛圖厙 students, Tyner said.
The Fulbright IEA program's focus is on strengthening educational and cultural connections between the U.S. and France, an objective that closely aligns with 51勛圖厙s mission to serve as a bridge between communities, cultures, and global opportunities.
Participating in this seminar will directly support 51勛圖厙s international education goals by strengthening global partnerships, increasing study abroad opportunities, and enhancing international recruitment, Tyner said.
The knowledge and connections gained during the program will be applied through faculty collaborations, student exchange pathways and workshops across campus, focusing on growing research and exchange opportunities in agriculture, business, computer science and healthcare.
The Fulbright program is a prestigious and competitive opportunity, he added. I truly hope this experience inspires more of our students and faculty to pursue global exchange programs in the future.