Christina Lapel serves as the Assistant Director of International Services at Missouri State University, where she leverages over three decades of experience in higher education and immigration compliance to enhance the university's support for international students and scholars. With a strong background in office management...
Christina Lapel serves as the Assistant Director of International Services at Missouri State University, where she leverages over three decades of experience in higher education and immigration compliance to enhance the university's support for international students and scholars. With a strong background in office management and a specialized focus on immigration and international tax compliance, Christina plays a pivotal role in overseeing the university's immigration compliance for F-1 and J-1 visa holders. Her responsibilities encompass a wide range of critical tasks, including immigration casework, quality control, and data integrity management.
In her capacity as a Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO), Christina ensures that the university adheres to U.S. immigration regulations while providing essential guidance and support to international students. She supervises a dedicated team of Designated School Officials (DSOs), fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes student success and compliance. Christina's expertise in data analysis and business process improvement allows her to implement effective strategies that streamline immigration processes and enhance reporting capabilities.
Key projects under her leadership include the development of comprehensive training programs for staff and students, aimed at improving understanding of immigration policies and procedures. Christina's proficiency with various immigration platforms, such as Tax Navigator and Banner, further supports her commitment to maintaining data accuracy and integrity. Her problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities enable her to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring that Missouri State University remains a welcoming and compliant institution for its diverse international community.
