Joanne D. Fahey, director of communications for Notre Dame Research, has been selected as a member of the Fulbright Specialist Program roster in the communication and journalism discipline. The program pairs highly qualified professionals with institutions in more than 150 countries around the world.
The competitive Fulbright Specialist Program, which is part of the larger Fulbright Program through the Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, selects professionals “based on their knowledge, skill sets, and ability to make a significant contribution to projects overseas.” As a participant, Fahey will share her expertise as a research communicator with host institutions while also gaining international experience. She will have until 2025 to match with projects and institutions in need of her skillset.
“I’m grateful for the incredible opportunity to apply my expertise in a way that helps others in my field advance their research communications while I also get to learn from other cultures and institutions,” said Fahey.
Fulbright Specialists spend two to six weeks with a host institution participating in a variety of activities, including offering seminars, training, and workshops; supporting strategic or institutional planning; and conducting assessments or evaluations.
The larger Fulbright Program was established in 1946 as an international educational and cultural exchange program between the US and more than 160 countries. It aims to build a mutual understanding between nations, advance knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world.
Fahey is one of six specialists awarded while at the University of Notre Dame, and is the first staff member to receive the honor while at the University.
Fahey continued, “I am thrilled to have been selected to join this dynamic community and I encourage any staff members who are interested in the opportunity a Fulbright Specialist Award presents to reach out to me to learn more.”
Fahey joined Notre Dame Research in 2014 as its first director of communications. She leads the research communications team and oversees the department’s communications strategy and tactics, including branding, web, social media, storytelling, video, print, and more. Before working at the University of Notre Dame, she spent 11 years in Ireland, serving in various senior communications roles. Fahey has a bachelor’s degree in political science and peace studies from Notre Dame and a master’s of science in environmental science from Trinity College Dublin.
Visit the Fulbright website to learn more about the Fulbright Specialist Program.