Andre Givens: Leading and Serving Christ with International Students
Andre Givens has worked in higher education for two decades, primarily in operational leadership roles. During this time, he has had the unique opportunity to expand his journey through a deep commitment to serving international students. He joined Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) because he believes the university’s vision aligns perfectly with his goal of fostering a globally connected student community and enhancing operational efficiencies to better serve a diverse student population.
At IWU, Givens serves as vice president of global strategy and strategic relationships for the university’s international programs. In this role, he leads initiatives that drive enrollment growth, expands partnerships, and implements systems designed to support student success. His position allows him to combine his operational expertise with his dedication to student-centered solutions, ensuring that IWU’s international students feel welcome, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals.
Givens enjoys the strategic nature of his role, which allows him to explore global expansion opportunities and develop innovative programs that align with student needs and market demands. One of the significant challenges he has encountered is navigating the complexities of the international education landscape while ensuring compliance with Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulations and maintaining program growth. Balancing strategic expansion with operational excellence has required close collaboration with multiple stakeholders, from enrollment teams to faculty and administration. Another key focus of his leadership has been managing change in a rapidly evolving educational environment.
Being at IWU has reinforced Givens’ belief in servant leadership and the power of faith-driven work. His time at IWU has also deepened his faith by reminding him that every challenge presents an opportunity to rely on God’s wisdom and guidance. Whether addressing complex operational challenges or supporting students in their academic journeys, faith has remained a cornerstone of his leadership approach. He appreciates how IWU’s Christ-centered values align with his personal philosophy of mentorship and community service.
One of Givens’ favorite aspects of his role is working alongside the university’s dynamic International Student Programs (ISP) team, who share his passion for supporting international students both online and on campus. Givens greatly values their work and sees them as essential to the university’s success.
“Their dedication and commitment to serving our international students are the driving force behind our success. The impact we are making—whether through enrollment growth, program enhancements, or student support—would not be possible without their hard work and passion.”
He continues to be inspired by the ISP team’s willingness to go above and beyond in their care for international students.
Givens also finds engaging directly with international students during residencies and graduation to be one of the most rewarding parts of his job. For him, these moments provide a firsthand look at the incredible journeys students have taken—from their first days navigating a new educational environment to the culmination of their hard work and perseverance as they walk across the stage. His goal is to ensure that international students have the support they need every step of the way.
“Seeing their excitement and sense of accomplishment reaffirms the importance of the work we do and fuels my passion for continuing to support their success,” Givens shares. “I am deeply committed to empowering our youth in the community I serve through mentorship and personal development.”
For two decades, Givens has dedicated himself to guiding and inspiring young people, helping them navigate both personal and professional challenges to reach their full potential.
“At my core, I am a man of God, guided by faith in everything I do. I am also a devoted husband and a proud father to my 10-year-old son, who inspires me every day to lead with integrity, purpose, and love. Balancing my professional responsibilities with my personal values is important to me, and I strive to be a positive role model both at work and in my community.”
