Dr. Barbara Kappler is the Assistant Dean of International Student & Scholar Services. Barbara holds a B.A. in both Economics and Communication from the University of St. Thomas and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Speech Communication from the University of Minnesota. She has over 25 years of experience in intercultural communication, program management, teaching, and research. Barbara also currently serves as a member of the graduate faculty in the College of Education and Human Development.

Previously at ISSS, Dr. Kappler was responsible for Intercultural Training and Programs, including intercultural communication training and ISSS programs such as ISOP, Culture Corps, and Small World Coffee Hour. She has worked at ISSS since 1994. Barbara is co-author of three guides for students, staff, and language instructors on “Maximizing Study Abroad,” as well as a book on communication styles. Her career at the University so far has been an exciting blend of program and leadership experiences, curriculum development, international communication research, teaching, and working with international students.

Dr. Kappler's hobbies include camping, canoeing, and cooking. She lives with her family in Minneapolis.