Saint Louis University received the 2026 Senator Paul Simon Award for Comprehensive Internationalization on Feb. 10, in honor of the university’s commitment to welcoming international students. The award highlights exceptional work in integrating international education into all areas of the university.
“This recognition celebrates SLU’s deep commitment to international education,” SLU president Edward Feser said. “A commitment we demonstrate by welcoming international students to St. Louis, fostering a global community at our Madrid campus, developing innovative global partnerships and creating rich opportunities for SLU community members to learn and build relationships across nations and cultures.”
SLU has a large population of international students as well as an international campus in Madrid, Spain. In 2025, SLU had over 1,800 international students from 95 different countries, as well as over 1,200 students on the SLU Madrid campus.
The award is presented by NAFSA: Association of International Education, the largest nonprofit association in the U.S. dedicated to international education and exchange. The award is named after the late Illinois senator, Paul Simon. SLU was one of only five universities to receive the award in 2026.
“This recognition affirms SLU’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world while ensuring all of our students gain the global perspective they need to thrive after graduation,” said Jean Marie Cox, the University’s interim vice president for enrollment management.
As a Jesuit university, SLU consistently focuses on ensuring that students are globally minded and working towards the greater good. In order to do so, Cox said SLU has been focusing on increasing international engagement.
“International students and global experiences are essential to the vitality of our campus and the quality of a Jesuit education,” Cox said.
SLU currently offers 56 courses covering international communities, culture, law and different global topics. SLU has also encouraged international education through events and programs on campus. One of SLU’s biggest international events is ATLAS Week. This is a week full of events focused on international education, culture and traditions, including different events, seminars, traditions, showcases and a Parade of Nations.
“Internationalization is in the DNA and mission of Saint Louis University,” Luchen Li said, SLU’s associate vice president for global engagement and international enrollment. “SLU is intentionally innovative with our efforts for internationalization as we pursue success.”
Studying abroad is one of the many opportunities SLU offers. More than 600 SLU students study abroad each year. SLU’s Education Abroad team has been working to make study abroad accessible to as many students as possible to ensure anyone who wants an international education experience can have one.