Rate My Professor Jason Cushen

Jason Cushen serves as Director International at the University of Otago, leading the International Office in Dunedin. He is responsible for the core operational activities of the office, including international marketing, recruitment, student services, and the implementation of the university's international development strategies and global institutional linkages. Located in the north end of the Clocktower building, the office under his direction supports the university's engagement with international students and partners worldwide. Cushen's leadership has been pivotal during various challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where he addressed the impacts on international student numbers, noting in 2022 that lower figures were anticipated. He has also managed high interest from overseas students despite travel restrictions in 2020.

Cushen has advanced key partnerships across regions. In October 2025, he signed a historic Letter of Agreement with the Taufa Sili Scholars Leadership School in Fiji, witnessed by Fijian officials, to support Fijian scholars and deepen Pacific collaborations beyond mere student recruitment. In February 2026, as Director Te Whirika - International, he joined a senior leadership delegation to India, building networks on the ground with the Otago Country Advisor in India, Riddhi Khurana, marking a significant step in strengthening ties with India. In the same month, he presented certificates to global scholars at a ceremony in the Otago Business School for their volunteering impact. Cushen has represented Otago at alumni events, including planned gatherings in San Diego and Los Angeles in 2025 with Deputy Vice-Chancellor External Engagement Professor Jessica Palmer. Earlier, in 2019, he visited Shanghai University as Head of the International Office. Previously serving as Deputy Director International, his career reflects sustained commitment to internationalisation, including involvement in the Matariki Network of Universities.