Forging a global vision for Idaho’s largest public research university
Situated in Idaho’s capital, Boise State has evolved from a junior college into Idaho’s largest university.
This transformation is driven by institutional strengths and strategic initiatives. In 2019, under Dr Marlene Tromp’s leadership, the university introduced the term “Blue Turf Thinking” – a nod to its iconic blue football field – symbolising a culture of innovation, agility, and unconventional problem-solving.
In 2021, Boise State launched its strategic plan, Blueprint for Success 2021-2028, reinforcing its commitment to innovation with both statewide and global impact. The university’s integration of local and global perspectives has solidified its international footprint.
A key milestone in Boise State’s global expansion was the establishment of the Center for Global Engagement, following the university reclassification as a research university. The Center coordinates internationalisation efforts, enhances global visibility, and develops innovative global learning programs. As a centralised hub, the Center serves students, faculty, partner universities, and various internal and external stakeholders.
Four pillars for building a public university global footprint
Expanding access
Since the Center for Global Engagement’s inception, Boise State has focused on making global learning accessible. Seventy per cent of Boise State students – many of whom are non-traditional students – are from Idaho, spanning diverse backgrounds, ages, and locations. For some, studying abroad seems out of reach.
By diversifying cost structures, introducing new programs, and expanding short-term study abroad options, Boise State has made global learning more attainable. As a result, study abroad enrolment has grown by 55% over the past eight years, making Boise State Idaho’s top institution for study abroad participation, according to the latest Open Doors reports.
Enhancing employability
Global experiences translate into career advantages. Boise State helps study abroad returnees articulate their experiences in ways that highlight workforce-relevant skills and competencies.
Boise State helps study abroad returnees articulate their experiences in ways that highlight workforce-relevant skills and competencies
The university also collaborates with career services to support international students in career preparedness, including advising on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) and educating local employers on hiring students with F visas. This approach has strengthened ties with businesses and expanded employment opportunities for students.
Global problems. Local solutions
Where relevant, Boise State integrates global themes into faculty-led study abroad programs. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), these programs encourage students and faculty to explore global issues with direct implications for Idaho and Boise.
Recent initiatives include sustainability studies (Mozambique), gender gap research (Peru and Bolivia), environmental conservation (Costa Rica), and migration mitigation (Honduras).
Advancing research
With a growing research portfolio, increased funding, and an expanding roster of PhD programs, Boise State is strengthening its global research initiatives.
International doctoral students contribute research with direct local impact, while visiting international scholars collaborate on grant-funded projects, further enhancing Boise State’s research capabilities.
By bridging the global and local, Boise State has expanded its international reach while remaining committed to its mission as a public university – advancing the state of Idaho and enriching the lives of its residents.
About the author: Gonzalo R. Bruce, PhD, serves as the assistant provost for global engagement at Boise State University. As the senior international officer, he leads the university’s strategic internationalisation efforts, overseeing global learning, international recruitment and admissions, the intensive English program, and international student and scholar services.
With over 20 years of experience in international education, Dr Bruce plays a key role in developing new global programs and partnerships, as well as managing externally funded projects. He earned his PhD from The Ohio State University and his master’s degree from the Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of Pittsburgh. Gonzalo is actively involved in several professional associations, including NAFSA, AIEA, APAIE, and EAIE.
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