Seton Hall’s Johanna Pan-Carr Honored With Prestigious NAFSA Distinguished Service Award

Seton Hall University proudly announces that Shao-Chen “Johanna” Pan-Carr, director of International Student and Scholar Services, has been recognized by NAFSA: Association of International Educators with the James O’Driscoll Distinguished Service Award. This distinguished honor celebrates sustained and selfless service to NAFSA Region X (New York and New Jersey), as well as exceptional contributions to the advancement of international education.

With more than 12 years of leadership in international education, Pan-Carr has made a lasting impact at institutions including NYU Shanghai, Fordham University and New York University, where she supported more than 25,000 international students. Since joining Seton Hall University, she has strengthened the University’s global engagement efforts, enhanced support for international students and scholars, and advanced Seton Hall’s strategic goals for internationalization.

Pan-Carr’s leadership extends beyond campus through her long-standing service to NAFSA. She served on the Region X Chair Stream from 2019 to 2021, guiding the community through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, the region maintained strong connections and collaboration through innovative virtual programming, professional development and resource sharing at a time when global mobility was at a standstill.

An active member of NAFSA’s Trainer Corps, Pan-Carr has also served as a lead trainer for multiple F-1 visa workshops and has mentored numerous emerging professionals in the field. Colleagues across the region recognize her for her strategic vision, mentorship and compassionate leadership, which continue to shape the international education community.

Pan-Carr previously received the NAFSA Rising Star Young Leader Award in 2016, an early recognition of her promise and potential. Her continued contributions, culminating in this year’s Distinguished Service Award, emphasize her sustained advocacy and commitment to the global education mission.

“Johanna’s leadership and dedication have elevated Seton Hall’s international programs and strengthened our connections worldwide,” said Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., assistant provost and dean of Continuing Education and Global Learning. “Global engagement is central to Seton Hall’s mission, and we deeply value the contributions of our international student community. Johanna’s work ensures that every student and scholar who joins our campus feels supported, welcomed and empowered to thrive as part of our Pirate family.”

Through her ongoing engagement with NAFSA and her leadership at Seton Hall, Pan-Carr continues to advance opportunities for students and scholars from around the world, embodying the University’s commitment to inclusion and servant leadership.

Categories: Education, Nation and World