CHICAGO — DePaul University proudly presented the first Global Engagement Faculty Award (GEFA) to Dr. Jason Goulah at the 2025 University Convocation on September 3, marking the beginning of the 2025–2026 academic year.
The Comprehensive Internationalization Committee (CIC) established the award to recognize faculty members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to advancing international education, cross-cultural understanding, and DePaul’s global presence. The inaugural call for nominations drew an extraordinary number of submissions, underscoring the depth, breadth, and impact of globally engaged scholarship and teaching across the university.
“We were honored to receive so many strong applications, each reflecting the remarkable global engagement of our faculty,” said Dr. GianMario Besana, Associate Provost for Global Engagement and Online Learning at DePaul University and co-chair of the CIC. “The enthusiasm and impact of these submissions reaffirm how timely and long overdue this recognition truly is”, added Dr. Nur Uysal, Associate Professor of Communication and co-chair of the CIC.
Honoring a Visionary in Global Education
Dr. Jason Goulah, of the Department of Leadership, Language, and Curriculum in the College of Education, was recognized for his visionary leadership in global education and his sustained contributions to DePaul’s mission of preparing students for leadership in an interconnected world.
As founder and director of the Value-Creating Education for Global Citizenship Ph.D. and M.Ed. Programs and the DePaul Institute for Daisaku Ikeda Studies in Education, Dr. Goulah has developed a sustainable model for educating future global leaders. His scholarship, including more than 100 publications and translations across over 20 countries, has earned him international recognition in peace education, language studies, and intercultural dialogue.
Through his leadership of DePaul’s World Language and Bilingual-Bicultural Education programs, Dr. Goulah has embedded global competency into the academic fabric of the university. He has also forged enduring partnerships with universities in Japan, welcoming visiting scholars to DePaul and expanding cross-cultural opportunities for students and faculty alike. His work uplifts underrepresented voices and champions equity-driven, globally engaged learning.
A Milestone in DePaul’s Global Mission
The Global Engagement Faculty Award celebrates impactful contributions across teaching, research, service, and institutional partnerships that foster meaningful global engagement. For his exemplary leadership and scholarship, Dr. Goulah embodies the values this new award seeks to honor.
“Global engagement is a cornerstone of DePaul University’s mission,” Dr. GianMario Besana noted. “Dr. Goulah’s work elevates DePaul’s visibility worldwide and affirms our commitment to fostering leadership, equity, and intercultural understanding in an interconnected world.”