Jennifer Kushner has accepted the role of director of the CALS Global program. An experienced manager with strong communication and program development skills, Kushner became assistant director of CALS Global in 2018 and has been the interim director since August of 2021.

During her time in CALS, Kushner has managed 35 new and existing international agreements, hosted professionals through the Cochran Fellowship Program, planned seminars reaching more than 400 people and facilitated $900,000 in grants and contracts. She has held leadership roles with national advocacy groups including APLU’s International Agriculture Section and the Globalizing Extension Innovation Network.

“Jennifer is a seasoned professional, with deep ties to UW–Madison and strong connections to national and international partners,” says Dean Glenda Gillaspy. “Her experience will help the college expand our international collaborations. In addition to welcoming Jennifer to this role, I want to thank the members of the search committee for identifying two very strong finalists.”

Prior to joining CALS Global, Kushner held a variety of leadership roles in higher education. She served as a state specialist with UW–Extension. Before that, she was an assistant and interim dean at Edgewood College during a time of significant organizational transformation and growth. At Edgewood, her portfolio included graduate programs, accelerated undergraduate programs, continuing education and corporate professional development.

“This is a pivotal moment for CALS as it moves into a new chapter under a new dean. I bring enthusiasm and vision for growing CALS’ contribution in the world and strengthening its leadership and engagements at UW, within our networks and nationally,” says Kushner. “I am excited to build on initiatives established during my first three years and to lead CALS Global into the future.”

Kushner assumed the director role on Aug. 28, 2022. Her office is located on the second floor of Agricultural Hall.