When international students come to West Virginia University, they know they have a friend in Dr. Tom Sloane.

Sloane, who serves as executive director of International and Global Relations at WVU, spends much of his time interacting with students and helping them adjust to life thousands of miles away from their homes. He’s also one of the first Mountaineers students meet. Sloane travels abroad recruiting future students at international college fairs while reconnecting alumni living abroad – a role he truly enjoys.

Recognizing his commitment and passion, the WVU Alumni Association will honor him as its 2014 Outstanding Alumnus during Homecoming festivities Oct. 3-4.

“You will not find a more passionate and loyal Mountaineer. Tom has been a wonderful steward of WVU and friend to our international students and alumni,” said Stephen Douglas, president and CEO, WVU Alumni Association. “We know cheers will be heard around the world as we honor him as this year’s outstanding alum at halftime of the game.”

Sloane was instrumental in establishing the WVU Alumni Association’s first international chapters around the globe, including chapters in China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Thailand. The coordination of international chapters is a partnership between the Association and WVU’s International and Global Relations unit.

Prior to his current role, Sloane served in numerous positions at WVU during his 35-year career with the University, including senior associate dean of students and coordinator of the downtown residence halls, among others. After completing his graduate degree at WVU in English Literature, Sloane also taught English courses focusing on intensive English composition, business English, and Japanese film and culture.

Sloane received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in English from WVU in 1966 and 1971, respectively, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Delta Kappa, French Honorary and Order of the Grail, 1964. In 1979, he received his doctorate in student personnel work in higher education from The Ohio State University in 1979.

Sloane has been actively involved in a number of academic organizations, including National Association of Foreign Student Advisers, Association of Student Judicial Affairs, and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. He also serves as a faculty advisor to Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and the Anime Club, as well as the Saudi, Kuwaiti and Emirati student associations.

The WVU Alumni Association will recognize Sloane, as well as parade marshals Bobby and Ann Bowden and six chapter/service award winners, during halftime of the WVU-Kansas game on Oct. 4.

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tec/9.22.14

CONTACT: Tara Curtis, WVU Alumni Association
304-293-0972, tecurtis@mail.wvu.edu

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