Meet Our Staff
The University of Idaho enjoys a rich international community made up of students, scholars and faculty representing over 78 countries throughout the world. The International Programs Office (IPO) is what makes that community possible. We support the U of I international community through the services and activities of our departments, committees and established programs. The IPO staff is passionate about transforming lives and supporting a globally engaged university community.
International Services
Dana Brolley
Director, International Services
208-885-8945
Serving the U of I Community on institutional compliance, government relations, and outreach initiatives.
Adriana Ota-Kotner
International Systems Coordinator/Student and Scholar Advisor
208-885-4379
Managing iVandal and serving students, scholars and the U of I community. About Adriana
Mimi Kestle
International Program Coordinator
208-885-7744
Supporting global engagement across campus and within the local community through coordinating various programs and activities. About Mimi
Kathy Gallentine
International Programs Specialist
Supporting International Programs Office and U of I community.
Education Abroad
Laurel Meyer
Education Abroad Advisor & Outreach/Marketing Coordinator
208-885-4075
Ambassadors
The International Ambassador program is built to assist and support international students on campus. International Ambassadors are distinguished and experienced campus leaders who represent the International Programs Office and facilitate the International Peer Mentor Program. More specifically, they are here to help the international community adjust to life at the University of Idaho. This may include but is not limited to: registration, housing, educating participants on available campus resources, serving as a role model for incoming students, acquainting new international students with academic opportunities and procedures, campus services, activities and facilities, participating in preparation for the orientation program, and answering questions. Please do not hesitate to reach out.
Avneet Virk
Hometown: Jalandhar, Punjab
Home country: India
Major: Statistics with a certificate in Business Analytics
Languages I speak: Punjabi, English, Hindi
My U of I experience: Love the arboretum, different study spots, and growth opportunities.
Fun fact about me: Tennis and pickleball player studying Sikhism, volunteering, hiking, travel and cafes.
Spring 2025: Partnered with Tutoring and College Success to increase engagement among international students to utilize academic services.
Fall 2024: Worked with the Idaho Eats team to increase vegetarian food options at The Eatery.
Liang Liang
Hometown: Zhanjiang
Home country: China
Major: Natural Resources
Languages I speak: Chinese, English
My U of I experience: I love the fancy campus. I enjoy the research environment here.
Fun fact about me: I love hiking, driving and cooking.
Spring 2025: Partnered with Tutoring and College Success to increase engagement among international students to utilize academic services.
Fall 2024: Worked with ASUI’s Director of Sustainability to order 50 pairs of ice traction cleats for new students to distribute at the beginning of the Spring semester.
Iffat Taiiba
Hometown: Dhaka
Home country: Bangladesh
Major: Marketing
Languages I speak: Bengali, English, Hindi, Russian.
My U of I experience: The Homecoming Serpentine and Vandal Parade at the Palousafest. A true and heartwarming way to celebrate Vandal pride.
Fun facts about me: I love animals and enjoy exploring new restaurants wherever I go.
Spring 2025: Partnered with BEAMS to facilitate a workshop on budgeting for international students and scholars.
Shashwot Niraula
Hometown: Kathmandu
Home country: Nepal
Major: Computer Science, Mathematics minor
Languages I speak: English, Nepali and Hindi
My U of I experience: A rollercoaster of thrilling challenges shaping me into a better version of myself, filled with laughs and unforgettable moments.
Fun fact about me: Massive soccer fan, love exploring, hiking and occasionally indulging in cooking.
Spring 2025: Started the “From Everywhere to Idaho” podcast to provide a platform for international students, scholars and educators to share about their experiences and highlights at University of Idaho.
Fall 2024: Coordinated a series of international sports games throughout the semester to introduce cricket, badminton and soccer to University of Idaho.
Shriza Thakur
Hometown: Kathmandu
Home country: Nepal
Major: Architecture and Design
Languages I speak: Nepali, Maithili, English
My U of I experience: Meeting new people and learning every day. A fun and challenging journey of growth.
Fun fact about me: Love swimming, kayaking, hiking, badminton and spending time in nature.
Spring 2025: Continued with her focus on mental health and conducted another event with International Tea and Mental Wellness.
Fall 2024: Partnered with the Counseling and Mental Health Center to conduct a workshop on mental wellness for students.