International Students, Staff, and Faculty

In this issue, we spotlight some of Drury University’s international students, staff, and faculty. They share what drew them to Drury and why they call it home, and their stories reveal how the university’s inclusive community, academic excellence, and commitment to global perspectives make it a destination for individuals from around the world. Readers will gain insight into how Drury supports and enriches the lives of its international members, building a campus culture that values diversity and connection. Join us in exploring the voices that add to the university’s vibrant, global identity.

Dr. Karim Moukrime

Director of Academic and Student Affairs for Drury GO

Morocco

I first came to the U.S. on a Fulbright scholarship in 2008 to teach the Arabic language at Missouri State University. I quickly developed solid relationships with many friends in Springfield. I remember coming to Drury often to visit and organize cultural events. Even though I did not work at Drury back then, I always loved the campus vibe and enjoyed meeting people who worked here. When the position I hold now was posted on the Drury website roughly three years ago, I did not hesitate to apply and go after it!

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Luz Olivera ’24 MA ’26

Communications Graduate Program & Graduate Assistant in International Support Services

Peru

Studying at Drury has been an enriching experience where I’ve had the chance to connect with an inspiring community of staff and students. These relationships have not only supported my academic journey but also shaped my professional growth. Choosing the communication graduate program here was an easy decision — Drury’s collaborative environment and commitment to practical learning align perfectly with my goals. I chose to be part of the International Support Services program for my career in organizational leadership and my master’s degree in communication. ISS allows me to support and interact with students from diverse backgrounds and this has deepened my understanding and interpersonal skills. Aside from my professional background, I want to support, teach, and collaborate with students because that is what I received when I came to Drury.

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Dr. Maurizio Sabini

Professor of Architecture at Hammons School of Architecture

Italy

After moving to the U.S. from Italy in 2000, to pursue an academic career following fifteen years of international practice, I joined Drury in 2012 as the new director of the Hammons School of Architecture. The culture of the school, housed within a liberal arts environment, and its potential evidenced by faculty accomplishments and student work, were what primarily attracted me to the HSA. After a fulfilling term as an administrator, I returned to the faculty and, realizing that I had made a good decision, I stayed at Drury for the same reasons: the humanistic approach to teaching, learning, and researching, with which I had grown up and practiced (particularly valuable for a professional field like architecture), as well as the outstanding level of faculty colleagues and students. Over the years, I have also come to appreciate that the Drury welcoming environment can also be found in the larger Springfield community with many opportunities to get involved and contribute to a vibrant local culture.

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Tyra Johansson ’25

Exercise Physiology/Psychology/Sports Leadership

Sweden

Initially, I came to Drury just to continue my swimming career. The reason I stayed is because of the tight-knit community that I get to be a part of here. I get to have close and meaningful relationships with my teammates, classmates, and faculty that help me grow more than I would have done anywhere else. The experience I have here is truly something unique.