Baili Zhang Recognized with Prestigious Award

     Topeka, Kan. – The University of Kansas (KU) School of Education and Human Sciences will give Washburn University’s Director of International Programs, Baili Zhang, one of its highest honors, the Friend of Education and Human Sciences Award. The annual award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional service and support to the School of Education and Human Sciences, its students and its mission.

     KU will give Zhang this award during the School of Education and Human Sciences commencement ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at Allen Fieldhouse, 1651 Naismith Drive, Lawrence.

     As Washburn University’s director of international programs since 1996, Zhang has led the development, implementation and maintenance of Washburn’s international initiatives. He has overseen international relations with 20 global partnerships and supervised all major international education units, including study abroad (until 2023), intensive English (until 2023) and international student services.

     Zhang led efforts to expand Washburn’s international profile, tripling international student enrollment, quadrupling study abroad participation and increasing the intensive English program fivefold. He also chaired Washburn’s International Education Committee until 2023 and serves as campus coordinator for Phi Beta Delta, the honor society for international scholars.

     In the community, Zhang has served as executive secretary of the International Center of Topeka since 1995. He is a charter member and current chair of Study Kansas, a statewide organization that promotes Kansas higher education globally. He also serves on the Advisory Board for International Affairs at the University of Kansas.

     “For more than 30 years, Baili has provided visionary leadership for Washburn University’s International Programs,” said Dr. Danny Wade, associate provost for faculty development and student issues and professor of English, Washburn. “During his tenure, Washburn has benefited from a broad array of cultural exchanges among faculty, staff and students worldwide. He understands that global relations grow stronger through education, collaboration and international travel. His expertise is widely recognized, and other institutions frequently seek his guidance.”

     Wade added that Zhang played a key role in developing international partnerships.

     “A significant reason for this award is Baili’s role in helping the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences launch its first joint elementary education program in China with Zhejiang Normal University,” Wade said. “He also spearheaded Washburn’s Joint English Education Program in China with Liaoning Normal University. These programs strengthen international partnerships and expand opportunities for students and educators in both countries.”

     Zhang earned degrees from Zhejiang Normal University in Jinhua, China and Washburn University. He also completed doctoral coursework at the University of Kansas.

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