Leadership transition at Maryville College leaves international students seeking stability
After more than two decades of service, Kirsten Sheppard has left her role as director of Maryville College’s Center for Global Engagement, leaving international students grappling with uncertainty as the institution searches for permanent leadership.
Dr. Scott Henson, a professor with the International Studies program, has assumed the interim director position while the college conducts its search for a permanent replacement.
The departure has prompted concerns among international students who relied on Sheppard for critical immigration support and cultural guidance. One anonymous international student described learning of the change directly from Sheppard herself.
“She wanted the international students to hear it from her before anyone else, and she cared for us almost like we were her own children,” the student said. “Her leaving felt like losing someone who truly understood us.”
International students expressed frustration with the timing of the college’s official communication, saying the announcement came too late for adequate preparation. The situation grew more complicated when another international counselor also departed shortly after Sheppard, leaving students uncertain about who would handle visa documents and respond to immigration questions.
The leadership vacuum has raised practical concerns about visa renewals, travel authorization and the critical I-20 forms that govern international students’ legal status in the United States. Students worry the instability could complicate interactions with immigration authorities and U.S. embassies abroad.
Despite the uncertainty, international students have expressed confidence in Henson’s appointment. Students praised his global experience, classroom work with diverse populations and personal attention to student welfare.
“Dr. Henson often takes time to ask how we are doing and whether we need any help, which means a lot to us,” the anonymous student said, noting his background in International Studies and demonstrated compassion.
Henson views the transition as a stabilizing period rather than a complete overhaul. He plans to identify systemic weaknesses and build a stronger foundation before implementing new initiatives.
“As far as grand vision, it hasn’t changed, which is to fulfill Maryville College’s purpose and mission statement, specifically around global education,” Henson said.
That vision centers on bringing global perspectives to campus while expanding study abroad opportunities for Maryville students. Henson emphasized the importance of enhancing academic, social, cultural and political dimensions of international programming.
Having worked alongside Sheppard for years through the international programming committee and travel study initiatives, Henson aims to build on her legacy while adapting to current needs.
“There are new people, new ideas and new skills. So [it is] this combination of building on the foundation, but also finding a new direction,” he said.
Henson identified student experience as his primary focus, whether for international students on campus or Maryville students studying abroad. He emphasized ensuring experiences remain positive, safe and productive while maintaining program momentum during the understaffed transition period.
The situation has mobilized the campus community. Faculty and staff have volunteered to fill gaps in programming and support services.
“In fact, I don’t think we would be doing as well as we are if we didn’t have so many volunteers,” Henson said, describing the response as a “my neighbor’s in need, how can I help?” mentality.
Henson acknowledged that the challenging geopolitical climate makes international education particularly stressful. He emphasized maintaining reliable visa services while preserving the personal touch that defines the program’s community atmosphere.
The department is reevaluating its staffing structure following recent turnover, with plans to improve both efficiency and staff experience. Henson identified three priority areas: stable, well-supported staff; a functional, inviting facility; and more efficient systems that allow greater personal interaction with students.
International students have advocated for input in selecting the permanent director, arguing the position directly affects their legal status, cultural experiences and daily lives. They seek a leader with prior international student experience who demonstrates genuine care rather than viewing the role as merely a means of professional advancement.
As the search continues, the college faces the challenge of maintaining recruitment momentum while ensuring current international students receive the support necessary to navigate complex immigration requirements in an uncertain political environment.
The International House, where international students and other MC students gather to celebrate each other’s cultures. (Photo courtesy of Maryville College.)