The Perceptions of Senior International Officers on Internationalization Strategies at Research Universities

This dissertation utilized semi-structured interviews with 15 Senior International Officers at U.S. research universities to interrogate three institutional issues: 1) motivations for internationalization, 2) strategies for internationalization, and 3) leadership for internationalization. Through inductive data analysis, the first finding uses globalization theory to explore how SIO’s navigate the tension between global collaboration and competition, serving as both mission stewards and strategic advisors within research universities. The second finding utilizes contingency theory to depict how internationalization is a driver of mobility, cross-cultural learning, and global integration, yet often disrupts institutional norms, introduces unfamiliar ideas, and challenges the status quo. The third finding draws upon intellectual leadership theory to detail how SIOs navigate institutional structures, leadership expectations, and external pressure to advance global engagement. Overall, findings underscore the need for adaptive leadership and collaborative governance during a time of significant disruption in U.S. higher education.