University of Arkansas Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz welcomed new and returning international sponsored students to campus earlier this month. Steinmetz said sponsored students reflect the university's vision for enriching campus diversity.

There are 43 new and 186 total sponsored students enrolled at the U of A this fall. fifty-one of the sponsored students are studying at the U of A on Fulbright Scholarships

Collaborative efforts between the Graduate School and International Education and sponsoring organizations have increased opportunities for sponsored students at the U of A.

"Our partnerships with sponsoring organizations have led to a greater diversity of international students on our campus," said Gloria Flores Passmore, director of the Office of Sponsored Student Programs.

Sponsored students are those who are funded by governments, international agencies or private companies. The students return to their home countries after completing their studies at the U of A. Once home, the students serve as links between the United States, Arkansas and the U of A in business, government and education.

"The link these students form between their homeland and the United States emphasizes the importance of unity among countries worldwide," said Curt Rom, associate dean for International Education.

International students are important contributors to the Arkansas economy. According to NAFSA: Association of International Educators, international students in Arkansas contributed $160.4 million to the state's economy in the 2016-17 academic year.