Keuka College has named alumna Ruby Nguyen as partnership director for its international programs at the University of Economics and Finance in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam National University International School in Hanoi.
Nguyen, a 2012 graduate, will work to expand the schools' management programs and launch a marketing degree at the University of Economics and Finance, the college said.
More than 500 students are pursuing Keuka College bachelor's degrees in business management through the two Vietnamese universities. Keuka launched its first overseas degree program in 2002.
Nguyen began her management studies with an international business concentration through the college's partnership with Vietnam National University International School before transferring to the Keuka Park campus as a junior.
She said small classes and encouragement from professors helped her become more confident. While at Keuka, she mentored incoming students, started a leadership-development club and completed a Field Period internship with a New York City fashion label.
Nguyen later held leadership roles at several educational institutions in Vietnam, focusing on international collaboration.
Keuka College Vice President Pete Bekisz said Nguyen's experience across the college's campuses would help the programs preserve Keuka's identity while adapting to Vietnam's business environment.
Nguyen said returning to her alma mater was a full-circle moment and that she hopes to widen access to the experiential education that shaped her career.
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