NORMAN — The University of Oklahoma College of Law’s Herman G. Kaiser Chair in International Law, Evelyn Aswad, recently received the World Experiences Foundation’s 2017 Global Citizen in Law and Politics Award at the foundation’s annual gala. Each year, the foundation celebrates individuals, organizations and businesses that have made significant contributions as global citizens. 

“Professor Aswad is a remarkable example of global engagement,” said OU College of Law Dean Joseph Harroz Jr. “Her background in international law is unparalleled and the countless opportunities she provides students because of her continued presence in the international law community enhances their academic experience in meaningful ways. Because of her important work, our students are exposed to global issues, and they are challenged to participate and engage in a diverse world that they will one day lead. We are grateful for and proud of Professor Aswad’s leadership in her field.”  

At the OU College of Law, Aswad teaches courses such as international law foundations and international business and human rights. She joined the OU Law faculty in 2013 after serving for 14 years as an attorney in the Legal Bureau at the U.S. Department of State, most recently as the head of the Office of Human Rights and Refugees. 

In her time at the OU College of Law, Aswad has developed an innovative international curriculum that combines international law and practice, current events and a focus on vulnerable communities abroad. She has brought numerous leading voices on international law issues to speak at OU Law and to meet with her students in small group settings. She has helped students obtain internships in the U.S. State Department, the United Nations and with international human rights groups. She founded and directs the law school’s Center for International Business and Human Rights, which is the first center of its kind at a U.S. law school. Professor Aswad also provides advice on human rights matters to the U.S. Department of State through her service on its Advisory Committee on International Law as well as its Stakeholder Advisory Board on matters of responsible business conduct abroad.

As a testament to her commitment to the university’s international mission, Aswad consistently uses her countless service positions within the international community as learning opportunities for her students. Whether by crafting courses, creating programs or taking students with her to international conferences in Washington, D.C., and Central America, Aswad exposes her students to real-world applications of international law.