Max Olivero is the 2026 recipient of the MSU Award for Outstanding Service to Education Abroad, which recognizes faculty and staff who give their time, energy and creativity to the development and implementation of education abroad programs that support MSU’s commitment to providing high-quality international education opportunities.
“This award is deeply meaningful because much of global support work happens behind the scenes, and the recognition is affirming that preparing students for global experiences truly matters,” Olivero said.
Olivero is the assistant director for Global Support Services in the Eli Broad College of Business where he serves as the primary academic resource for students, faculty and campus partners seeking clear and accurate information about academic requirements, program logistics and program partner expectations. In the three years he’s been with Broad, Olivero’s knowledge and expertise has improved advising accuracy, reduced barriers in education abroad participation and strengthened partnerships.
During his undergraduate studies as a social relations and policy major in MSU’s James Madison College, Olivero participated in two education abroad programs; therefore, it hardly came as a surprise that he pursued a career advising students to study abroad upon his graduation.
Olivero began working for James Madison College as a field experience coordinator where his key responsibilities included managing internship placements and experiential learning opportunities, coordinating the college’s field experience program, and working closely with faculty, administrators and the Office for Education Abroad.
In his nomination letter, Dwight Handspike, director of advising and student support initiatives wrote, “Beyond individual programs, Maxwell has been a consistent advocate for education abroad across advising conversations, policy discussions and collaborative initiatives throughout the college and university.”
Olivero’s commitment to international learning is apparent through the presentations he offers at national conferences and workshops, his attention to academic rigor and pre-departure development, the site visits he’s conducted across the globe, and the level of care he puts forth in empowering students to navigate international environments safely and responsibly.
“Broad’s model stands out because education abroad advising is fully integrated within Undergraduate Academic Services. Students receive degree-informed guidance that connects curriculum planning directly to their global experience,” said Olivero.
“Our focus isn’t just on participation. It’s ensuring students are academically prepared and globally competent.”