Aray Saniyazova, a staff member at Nazarbayev University, has become the first person from CIS countries to receive the NASPA Global Division Award of Distinction.
The award recognizes outstanding contributions to global student affairs and honors work advancing the field beyond the United States and Canada.
NASPA is an international organization focused on advancing student affairs through research, professional development, and global collaboration. Its network spans universities and educational institutions across all 50 U.S. states and more than 20 countries worldwide.
The award was presented during the annual NASPA conference in Kansas City, which brought together more than 6,500 participants from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. This year marked the introduction of the NASPA Global Division Award of Distinction, which recognizes individuals for exceptional programs, innovative services, and effective leadership in student affairs.
Saniyazova was recognized for her work supporting international students at NU, where she has worked since 2011. Over the years, she has contributed to enhancing the student experience by fostering inclusive campus environments and developing strategies to support international student success. She has also been appointed to the NASPA Global Division Board, joining 15 professionals from leading universities worldwide.
Saniyazova holds a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a PhD from NU. She also completed postdoctoral research at the University of California, Berkeley and the HSE University.
In 2025, her initiative supporting international students helped NU receive the NASPA MENASA Regional Gold Award, recognizing excellence in student affairs across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.
