Southeast Missouri State University’s Dr. Brooke DeArman, associate director of International Student Services, has been recognized by NAFSA: Association of International Educators as the 2025 Region IV Superstar, an honor celebrating professionals who have made outstanding contributions to international education.
NAFSA’s Region IV encompasses Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. The award was presented during the organization’s regional conference, held Oct. 28–30 in St. Charles, Missouri.
The Superstar Award recognizes professionals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to supporting international students, advancing global understanding and strengthening international education across institutions.
DeArman, who began her career at SEMO in 2012, has served in international education for more than a decade. First as an international student counselor, then as assistant director, and now as associate director of International Student Services. In her role, she serves as the University’s Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) and Responsible Officer, ensuring compliance with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and maintaining SEMO’s certification to enroll international students.
“I never want a student to fall out of status or face problems without my help," DeArman said. “Students know that when they are facing a challenge, I will respond quickly. That trust means everything to me.”
Hailey Leonard-Nenninger, international student services counselor at SEMO nominated DeArman, and praised her commitment and compassion.
“Brooke has dedicated nearly 15 years to Southeast Missouri State University,” Leonard-Nenninger said. “She has shown that she is willing to go above and beyond for our international students. Brooke is constantly searching for knowledge not to better her own career, but to benefit and protect our international students.”
For DeArman, international education is more than a career—it’s a calling that has shaped her worldview.
“I don’t think I make an impact on international education—International education has made an impact on me,” DeArman said. “Having the opportunity to be around people from all over the world has completely changed my perspective for the better. To those wanting to make an impact, I’d say: go into every conversation with as little bias as possible and really listen. Seeing the world through others’ eyes leads to understanding, acceptance and better problem-solving.”
Dr. Kevin Timlin, executive director of International Education and Services, said the recognition is well deserved.
“The honor is certainly appropriate as Brooke is a superstar, both in NAFSA Region IV and on campus,” Timlin said. “Our field representative from the Department of Homeland Security has told me multiple times that Brooke is one of, if not the best, and most knowledgeable PDSO he knows. SEMO’s international students know their records are in good hands with her. Brooke is also deeply involved on campus and in the community as chair of SEMO’s Professional Staff Council, a trumpet instructor for the SEMO Music Academy, a performer in local municipal bands and a diehard supporter of Redhawk Athletics.”
Receiving the NAFSA Region IV Superstar Award, DeArman said, is both humbling and affirming.
“To be nominated by a colleague and recognized by peers I deeply respect is such an honor," DeArman said. “Most importantly, I hope it reassures our students and the University that they are in good hands. Every day, thousands of international students depend on me to know what I’m doing and to be there when they need help. That’s a responsibility I take to heart.”
For more information about SEMO’s international student services, visit semo.edu/international.