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Meet the International Student Services Staff

The International Student staff is here to help. Reach out with any questions or to request information by emailing us at OISS@knox.edu. 

Christopher Pedo

Associate Dean of Global Engagement

Chris grew up in Kericho, Kenya and came to the United States as an F-1 international student, earning a master’s degree in public administration and policy Analysis from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Bringing extensive experience in higher education and international student services, Chris has served in key advising and leadership roles at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina, The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and the University of Southern Indiana as a Program Coordinator.

Chris is an active member of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, the Forum on Education Abroad, and the Network of International Education Associations. Beyond higher education, he serves as Board Chair for Anaweza, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities in Kenya’s Nyanza Province through healthcare, education, and community support. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Southern Indiana, Chris focuses his research on international students’ sense of belonging and educational achievement, driving his dedication to helping students succeed both academically and personally. Outside of campus, Chris loves running and spending time with his wife, Rachel, and their three children, John, Odongo, and Apiyo.

Taylor Soto

Assistant Director of International Student Services

Taylor is originally from Chicago but now lives right down I-74 in Peoria, Illinois. She is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and graduated with her Master’s Degree in International Studies from DePaul University in 2018. She has over a decade of experience working in higher education, with expertise in international education. Prior to Knox College, Taylor was the Assistant Director of International Student Engagement and Residential Life at Bradley University and the Academic Operations Manager at National Louis University. Additionally, she loves adjunct teaching social science courses.

Considering herself a life-long learner, Taylor is committed to working with students to provide them the best educational experience as possible and working towards making higher education accessible to all. When she is not working, she enjoys playing and officiating roller derby, reading, watching movies, and spending time with her partner, family, pets, and friends.