What does it take to turn a personal journey into a campus-wide movement? For Vivian Wang, Vice Provost for Global Engagement at the University of Tulsa, it started with her own leap—from Shanghai to Oklahoma. That culture shock didn’t just shape her—it inspired her to reimagine how international students thrive and how universities tell their global story.

Vivian’s leadership is all about connection: connecting students to opportunity, connecting data to impact, and connecting campus to the world. In this episode of Via Voices, she shares how Tulsa is putting student success at the center, using data to drive real change, and navigating the uncertainty of shifting policies and global trends.

• Why student success is personal—and how Vivian’s experience drives Tulsa’s global vision

• How centralized global engagement offices break down silos and boost support

• The power of data storytelling to prove impact and shape strategy

• Navigating uncertainty: staying mission-driven when policies and funding shift

• Why every student deserves a transformational, global education—no matter what

Vivian Wang is the Vice Provost for Global Engagement at the University of Tulsa. With a proven track record in higher education, Vivian brings deep expertise in international programs, global partnerships, and internationalization strategies. Her leadership is grounded in personal experience—she began her own international journey as a student from Shanghai, later earning her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education/Higher Education Administration from Oklahoma State University.

Vivian’s approach is both strategic and student-centered. She’s known for building bridges across campus, advocating for inclusive global opportunities, and driving initiatives that put student success at the forefront. Her vision for international education is clear: empower students to connect with the world, and back every decision with data and heart.

[00:00] Podcast begins

[01:25] Culture Shock: Shanghai to Oklahoma & Vivian’s experience in international ed

[04:45] International from Tulsa: Global education under one centralized office

[07:33] Data Storytelling Essentials: Reflecting national trends & Tulsa trends together

[10:26] Uncertainties & Lessons Learned: Navigating geopolitical policies & climates

[15:56] Rapid Fire Questions: Vivian talks cultural identity, mentorship & motherhood

University of Tulsa | utulsa.edu

Book: We Were Dreamers: An Immigrant Superhero Origin Story
By: Simu Liu

Connect with Vivian Wang:

LinkedIn

For More Information:
Learn more about the Association of International Education Administrators at AIEAworld.org. Visit ViaTRM.com to learn more about Via TRM and access to additional resources.

Stay Connected:
Connect with Host Brooke Roberts on LinkedIn