Brian White selected to lead the Office of International Students and Scholars

Celestino Limas, dean of students and chief diversity officer, announced today that Brian White will become the Associate Dean of Students and Director of International Students and Scholars on June 1. White will replace Greg Caldwell, who is retiring this spring after 35 years of service to the college.

White has spent more than 20 years working in the international education field and has been at Lewis & Clark since 1997. Among his current responsibilities, White represents the college to international schools, parents, and alumni during regular trips to Asia. He has studied and taught in London, China, and Japan, and during his tenure at Lewis & Clark he has led an overseas program in Kenya and Tanzania. White earned his undergraduate degree from Whitman College and his graduate degree in literature at Arizona State University.

Lewis & Clark has established itself as a preeminent college in the international education arena, and Limas said White was the perfect choice to build on the programs established during Caldwell’s tenure.

“There is no one better to carry forward the incredible programs that have made Lewis & Clark a supportive, nurturing, and culturally rich environment for learning,” Limas said. “All of our students are fortunate to have Brian’s professional expertise and dedication to ensuring the best possible educational experience.” 

Promoting White gained early support from a number of international students upon news of Caldwell’s retirement; more than 100 students signed a student-led petition for White’s candidacy. White said the students are a major source of inspiration in his work, as is Caldwell’s legacy and his own educational experiences abroad.

“Leading the Office of International Students and Scholars has been a goal of mine for many years,” White said. “I’m honored and humbled by this opportunity, and I look forward to it. In Greg, I’ve had a great mentor and an example of how to excel at this work: Put students first. Lead by example. Communicate clearly. Finally, don’t just teach the students, learn from them as well.”

The Office of International Students and Scholars offers support programs for the more than 200 international students attending the three schools at Lewis & Clark. The office is responsible for international student admissions, financial aid, orientation, and immigration services.

Caldwell sent a message to international students, visiting scholars, and third culture kids expressing his enthusiastic support for White’s selection as the new director.

“He is a strong advocate for international students, TCKs, and college-wide international programs,” Caldwell said. “He is level-headed, fair-minded, and a person of the highest integrity. Brian is the perfect choice, and I am happy for him and for our students.”