As Associate Provost for Global Engagement, Maria leads UNC Greensboro’s internationalization efforts by working closely with multiple constituents across campus to create and implement global learning opportunities for students, faculty, and staff.
Education
- PhD in International Studies from the University of South Carolina, Columbia
- MA in International Studies from the University of South Carolina, Columbia
- BA in Economics and International Studies from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
GET TO KNOW US
Maria Anastasiou is a senior international education leader with more than two decades of experience advancing global engagement across higher education institutions. She currently serves as Associate Provost for Global Engagement at UNC Greensboro, where she leads comprehensive internationalization efforts, oversees global partnerships, directs international student recruitment strategies, and manages a diverse portfolio of global programs and budgets.
Previously, Maria held leadership roles at Appalachian State University, the University of South Carolina Aiken, and Frederick University in Cyprus, where she guided international offices, developed strategic plans, strengthened global learning initiatives, and secured major external grants—including multiple Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program awards. Her expertise spans international student and scholar services, education abroad, crisis management, faculty development, and global learning assessment. A recognized contributor to national and international organizations, she has served in leadership positions with NAFSA, AIEA, AIRC, and the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition.
Anastasiou holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in International Studies from the University of South Carolina and a B.S. in Economics and International Studies from UNC Chapel Hill. She is widely known for her collaborative leadership style, financial stewardship, and commitment to expanding global opportunities for students, faculty, and communities. Maria has taught numerous classes on Foreign Policy and International Relations and likes to teach college-level classes when time permits. She is a native of Cyprus and came to the U.S. in 1994 on a US government sponsored scholarship for her college education.
