Christopher Ferguson

About Christopher Ferguson

I am an experienced international higher education professional dedicated to expanding access to education. I strive to create programs that enrich learning, personal growth, and development. With a strong background in training, workshop facilitation, and experiential learning, I am committed to fostering meaningful experiences that promote cultural awareness and critical thinking. I bring almost two decades of expertise in education abroad, international student and scholar services, and professional advising as a service, including experience with providing student support services, international credit transfer, exchange partnership development, and Title IX advising and decision making. I specialize in academic, education abroad, and international student advising, ensuring that students and scholars thrive in new cultural and academic environments. Beyond my professional work, I enjoy hobby board gaming, traveling, reading, baking, cooking, history, performing, and digital content creation.

Experience

1. Assistant Director of Global Education

   High Point University

   Mar 2023 — Present · High Point, NC, US

   Manage International Student Programs & Services, the International Student and Scholar Services branch of the Office of Global Education- As the Principal Designated School Official, ensure university compliance with federal regulations including SEVIS registration and maintenance of the institution\'s I-17- Successfully applied for Program Designation with the Department of State to serve as a program sponsor for the Exchange Visitor Program- As the Responsible Officer, ensure university compliance with Department of State regulations as a designated Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor- Advise international students and scholars on immigration matters including regulatory compliance and maintenance of status, approve work authorization, assist with tax compliance, and manage other relevant SEVIS updates- Manage communications and logistics with newly accepted F-1 and J-1 students, semester exchange partners, and all non-degree international students and scholars from first point of contact through the completion of their program- Manage bilateral exchanges with approximately 40 institutions abroad- Collaborate with undergraduate and graduate admissions, student support services, and academic units to mentor students on a successful transition to academic and social life on campus- Facilitate orientation workshops for new international students and scholars, F/J regulations, and education abroad participants, parents, and families- Create and implement communications plan and workshops for current students regarding current opportunities, activities, and issues of compliance- Cross-train university staff on immigration policies and relevant compliance issues- Assist with purchasing and procurement for Unit- Assist with planning of events related to Global Education.

Education

• High Point University

  Master of Education - MEd, Educational Leadership

• High Point University

  Doctor of Education - EdD, Educational Leadership and Administration, General

• Kunming University of Science and Technology

  Study Abroad, Chinese Studies

• High Point University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Mathematics Teacher Education