Dr. Nalanda Roy, a professor in the Department of Political Science and International Studies at Georgia Southern University, has been honored with the prestigious Noam Chomsky Global Connections Shining Star Research Award. This lifetime achievement award recognizes her groundbreaking research in global affairs, international relations, and maritime security in South and Southeast Asia.

Dr. Roy’s career spans over two decades, during which she has made significant contributions to the understanding of international relations, particularly in regions such as the South China Sea and Southeast Asia. Her expertise has led to numerous published works, including influential books and articles that have shaped the global conversation around maritime security and geopolitical conflicts.

The Noam Chomsky Global Connections Shining Star Research Award is presented to scholars who demonstrate exceptional leadership in global research and education. To be eligible, recipients must have at least 15 years of impactful academic work and a legacy that promotes human well-being. Dr. Roy’s interdisciplinary approach to research, focusing on issues of conflict and international relations, made her an ideal candidate for this prestigious recognition.

In addition to her research, Dr. Roy plays an active role in professional organizations. She has served as the program chair for the South Asia in World Politics sector of the International Studies Association and as a senior editor for the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of International Studies, among many other contributions.

Despite the individual recognition, Dr. Roy remains humble and credits her success to the support of her family. “It’s not just me,” she says. “My parents, my husband, my daughter, everybody… there have been countless sleepless nights working.” She reflects on how her roots and the people who have helped her along the way shaped her career, quoting Malcolm Gladwell: “Who you are cannot be separated from where you have been.”

Her remarkable dedication to her field and her commitment to furthering global knowledge have made Dr. Roy a standout figure in international studies. The award is a testament to her lifelong contributions to understanding complex geopolitical dynamics and fostering international cooperation.

Looking ahead, Dr. Roy’s research continues to influence discussions on maritime security and international conflict, with her insights expected to play a critical role in shaping future policy and academic thought.