We are here to help and support you during your time at Augsburg University. Feel free to set up an appointment with Rus via Navigate (Inside Augsburg) or drop by Science 112.
Leah Spinosa de Vega
Email: devega@augsburg.edu
Phone: (612) 817-2830
Leah Spinosa de Vega joined Augsburg University in July 2008. In her role as Executive Director of Global Initiatives, she oversees academics and operations for the Center for Global Education and Experience, as well as International Students affairs.
She has over 20 years of experience working in higher education in international education, academic advising, executive education, alumni relations, and Spanish-language instruction. Leah has a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Linguistics, and a Master’s in Hispanic Linguistics, both from the University of Minnesota. In addition to these degrees, she is a Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory and holds a diplomado in Client-Centered Therapy from the Instituto de Gestalt in Cuernavaca, Mexico.
Contact Leah for: Risk management, campus globalization efforts such as curriculum integration, [Augsburg] faculty-led program proposal process, and exchange agreements.
Leah uses she/her/hers pronouns.
Rus Kiser
Director of International Scholar and Student Services/PDSO/ARO
Email: kiserr@augsburg.edu
Phone: (612) 330-1659
Rus Kiser joined Augsburg University in September 2025. As Director of ISSS and the PDSO, Rus is responsible for Augsburg’s international non-resident (F-1 and J-1) students.
Rus has been in international education for over 20 years as an educator and administrator. Over the years, he’s served students in six states and several countries with a focus on balancing student needs with regulatory reality.
Originally from Oklahoma, Rus has a BA in Political Science, an MA TESOL, and an MBA along with a teaching certificate in Secondary Social Studies and has completed TESOL’s Leadership Development Program. He’s also served in several TESOL and NAFSA leadership roles.
Contact Rus for: International Students affairs (health insurance, maintaining status, employment, travel, etc,) USCIS/SEVIS/F-1/J-1and other Non-resident Immigration regulations and questions, and local outreach opportunities for our international students.