Assistant International Studies professor Richard Sindelar, an attorney and former diplomat with the Foreign Service, is the new director of the Center for International Studies (CIS) at the University of St. Thomas.

Sindelar fills the position held previously for nine years by Dr. Hans Stockton, who is now dean of the newly created Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences & Global Studies.

The transition takes place as CIS sits on the cusp of its fortieth year.

Sindelar said, “Four decades ago, Ann Tiller was the person with the idea and the driving force to get CIS started. After her untimely passing, Bill Cunningham came in and built the program. It’s been expanding ever since, and I hope to be part of further building on their proud legacies.”

Looking to the Future

The Sindelar announcement heralds an expansion of the CIS and its academic program with new degrees, including an M.A. in Diplomacy & Strategic Affairs and a B.A. in cybersecurity. 

Looking ahead, he hopes to develop funding for a robust Middle Eastern program, encompassing, among other issues, the Middle East’s effect on US foreign policy and Turkey’s role as a U.S. security partner and NATO ally.

He also hopes to focus on developing a robust set of virtual online programs featuring current event issues and live chats with ambassadors.

Sindelar assumes his new duties on July 1.

Experience, Credibility & Vision

Dr. Hans Stockton said, “Rick Sindelar has the professional experience, credibility, and vision for this important post. He will continue his leadership of the Distinguished Diplomat Program along with managing the CIS outreach and programming. He will take us to new horizons.”

With real-world insights and skills, Sindelar has been reappointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to serve on the Houston District Export Council. The civilian trade promotion organization collaborates with the U.S. Department of Commerce.

“Like me, many of our students discover that the international world is so exciting and interesting that once you get into it, you’re too fascinated to get out of it,” the former 22-year foreign diplomatic officer said. “I consider an international studies degree to be one of the two best degrees for getting a job in Houston.”

Other changes within the CIS are as follows:

• Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh is the new chair for the academic department of international studies and modern languages.
• Dr. Ulyses Balderas will serve as director of the Study Abroad Program and continue his leadership of the Latin American Studies Program.

For further information about UST’s international studies program, click here.