Sarr named International Student Services director

Papa Demba Sarr has been named director of International Student Services (ISS).

Sarr, who previously served as associate director of ISS, began his new responsibilities on June 1. He served as interim director after the retirement of Judy Brodd, who left the office earlier this year.

Originally from Senegal, Sarr — or “Pap” as he is known — is a former UW international student. He received an undergraduate degree in French and sociology, and a master’s degree in French literature.

He joined the ISS staff in 1999, after serving as an instructor and master teacher for French and other languages on several UW System campuses from 1991-1999.

“Pap has demonstrated a strong, consistent commitment to enhancing the international-student experience, and he has already cultivated strong working relationships with units all over campus,” says Dean of Students Luoluo Hong. “Extremely knowledgeable in the areas of visa and immigration services, Pap played an instrumental role in the university’s compliance efforts with the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).”

A unit of the Offices of the Dean of Students, ISS is responsible for services and programs designed to assist international students, who number more than 3,700. ISS services include orientation programs, immigration document production and advising services, and programming. The office also serves as a campus resource for faculty and staff.

“International students are an extremely important part of the UW–Madison community,” Sarr says. “We’ll do everything we can to support and welcome them during their time here on campus.”

Other finalists for the position included:

• James Dorsett, director of the Office of International Students and Scholars at Wayne State University in Detroit, Mich.
• Mark Hallett, director of the Office of International Students and Scholars at the University of New Orleans in New Orleans, La.

Sarr’s salary is $75,000. For more information visit the ISS website.