UNL Professor Shares Fulbright Insights from Indonesia

Theresa Catalano brings global perspectives to her teaching and research.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:54pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a university classroom, with students and a professor visible in soft, warm light, conveying a sense of international learning and cultural exchange.A professor's Fulbright experience in Indonesia inspires new global perspectives in the classroom.Lincoln Today

Professor Theresa Catalano of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is applying insights gained from her recent Fulbright Specialist visit to Indonesia to enhance her teaching and international research efforts. Catalano spent several weeks in the Southeast Asian country, exploring educational practices and cultural exchange opportunities that she now hopes to integrate into her work at UNL.

Why it matters

Catalano's Fulbright experience allows her to bring a more global, cross-cultural perspective to her classroom instruction and academic projects. By sharing these international insights, she aims to broaden the horizons of her students and fellow researchers, fostering a greater understanding of diverse educational approaches and cultural traditions.

The details

During her Fulbright Specialist visit, Catalano immersed herself in Indonesia's educational system, observing teaching methods, curriculum development, and student engagement strategies. She also participated in cultural exchange programs, gaining firsthand knowledge of the country's rich heritage. Now back at UNL, Catalano plans to incorporate these learnings into her courses, potentially developing new study abroad opportunities for students and collaborating with Indonesian institutions on joint research initiatives.

  • Catalano spent several weeks in Indonesia as a Fulbright Specialist in early 2026.
  • She is now applying the insights from her Fulbright experience to her teaching and research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The players

Theresa Catalano

A professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who recently completed a Fulbright Specialist visit to Indonesia.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The public research university where Catalano teaches and conducts her academic work.

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What they’re saying

“My Fulbright experience in Indonesia was truly transformative, and I'm excited to bring those global perspectives back to my students and research projects.”

— Theresa Catalano, Professor

What’s next

Catalano plans to develop new study abroad opportunities for UNL students to visit Indonesia and explore potential research collaborations with Indonesian institutions.

The takeaway

By leveraging her Fulbright insights, Professor Catalano is poised to enrich the educational experience at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, fostering a greater understanding of international teaching practices and cultural exchange.