Employee of the Month - September 2025
Natalie Haubs, International Services Coordinator
Center For International Education
Awarded Wednesday, September 24 at Friendship Walk. Natalie Haubs was joined by President Andrew Jones, Provost Karyn Scissum Gunn, Associate Vice President of International Education and Global Engagement Jeet Joshee, and numerous campus colleagues.
Center for International Education’s international services coordinator Natalie Haubs’s leadership and creativity have transformed how the university connects with and supports its international student community.
Natalie has played a central role in strengthening communication and engagement with students, beginning with the creation of a New Admitted Student e-Newsletter. This initiative offers a warm welcome to incoming students and reassures them that they are fully embraced by the campus community. She also revitalized the office’s monthly newsletter and expanded its reach through an improved social media presence.
Another impactful project she supported was the development of the foundation of the CIE Canvas course, which serves as a comprehensive hub for resources on housing, banking in the U.S., financial literacy, transportation, and pre- and post-arrival guidance. The platform not only provides practical information but also creates safe spaces where international students can connect and share experiences.
Natalie’s influence goes beyond tools and programs. “Natalie has demonstrated a unique ability to build long lasting and impactful relationships with the students that interact with her,” shared Mayra Serna-Gallegos, Assistant Director of International Student Services shared.
Mayra noted that Natalie’s skills, kindness, and innovative spirit have elevated the effectiveness of their office in ways that will have a lasting impact.
Natalie’s recognition underscores the vital role she plays in ensuring that international students feel welcomed, informed, and supported throughout their journey.
Natalie graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a bachelor’s degree in international studies. She said, “During my time at college, I studied abroad twice, which gave me firsthand insight into how powerful international education can be for young people. During my time as a student at CSULB I also met my husband, who happened to be an international student studying at CSULB, further proving how life changing international education can be.
“In my current role as International Services Coordinator, I love having the opportunity to connect with international students every day, learn about their cultures and help them navigate their new life in the US. I know the many challenges they face both before coming to the U.S. and while studying here. My team and I do everything we can to support them, even when things are beyond our control. I believe now more than ever, cross-cultural exchanges among students are vital, shaping how future generations understand and experience the world.
“I would like to thank the entire Center for International Education team for their support throughout my time here. This past year has been particularly challenging with many changes impacting international students, but our team has truly stepped up, navigating every challenge and welcoming a very large group of new international students this Fall semester.”
Outside of work, Natalie’s passionate about traveling and recently visited her 56th country. “Each new experience abroad continues to inspire the way I approach my work with international students.”