Suzanne Braden is the 2025 recipient of the Charles A. Gliozzo International Award for Public Diplomacy, which recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to public diplomacy through educating, training or promoting knowledge and understanding between MSU faculty and staff, community members and international students, scholars and visitors.

Braden is the executive director, CEO and co-founder of Pandas International, a non-profit organization devoted to saving the giant pandas, one of the most threatened species in the world. Her visionary leadership for the last 25 years has helped to raise public awareness and education, support for research and strengthen cross-cultural ties between China and the world.

Drs. Matt Daum, interim dean and professor in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Dana Infante, chair and professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife; and Jack Liu, Rachel Carson Chair and director in the Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, wrote in their nomination letter, “Braden’s leadership has propelled Pandas International into one of the most impactful organizations supporting panda conservation efforts worldwide.”

Because of Braden’s commitment, Pandas International was one of the first organizations to provide aid following the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, which destroyed the Wolong Panda Center. Her work reached new heights last year when she reached out to MSU to explore a collaboration to enhance Pandas International’s impact, resulting in nearly $600K in initial funding to support an innovative project that integrates climate change and meta-coupling science to assess threats to panda habitats.

“I became interested in conservation efforts for the giant pandas after visiting the original panda base in 1999 as a tourist,” said Braden, who will retire next month. “I’ve been aware of MSU’s research on giant pandas for many years and was familiar with the work being done by Dr. Jianguo [Jack] Liu.”

Braden’s efforts to raise awareness and educate the public about panda conservation and the importance of biodiversity and environmental stewardship, are strategic and intentional. In addition to research collaborations and volunteer programs that allow international scholars and students to engage with panda conservation efforts firsthand, her organization’s website has been an important resource, providing current and thorough research findings, news and practical ways for people to support panda conservation efforts.

While numerous prestigious institutions have recognized Braden’s contributions to public diplomacy and conservation, Braden said, “Helping the giant pandas over the last 25 years has been the most significant award.”