About Us - Deborah Knaust

Dear International Students,

Welcome to the University of St. Thomas! The Office of International Student Services strives to provide high quality services to students from around the world. Currently,  334 international students representing  69 countries are studying at the University of St. Thomas. OISS staff members feel a special obligation to these students who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our campus.

As Director of OISS, I am pleased to extend a special welcome to all International Students. My international experiences have taken me to amazing and interesting places around the world. I studied abroad in Bulgaria, taught English in Japan, and traveled throughout Western and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Asia.  I have a Master of Arts degree from the University of Denver in Higher Education Administration and a Master of Arts degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in Teaching English as a Second/Other Language (TESOL).  My hobbies include  biking, skiing, walking, water color painting and reading.  I also like puns and onomatopoeia!  I recommend that you watch the Amazing Race TV show because I am a dedicated fan of the show.  Originally, I am from St. Louis, Missouri and I moved to Minnesota in 2003. 

The University of St. Thomas sets the stage for International Students to interact with the campus community in academic, social and cultural settings. I encourage all International Students to take advantage of the opportunities that are available on the St. Thomas campus and in the St. Paul-Minneapolis area. Your efforts and experiences at the University of St. Thomas will become the memories you create!

I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your academic and personal goals during your experience at St. Thomas . 

Welcome to the University of St. Thomas! 

Deborah Knaust

Director 
Office of International Student Services 

Deborah Knaust
Director
dmknaust@stthomas.edu