Our Values
Since its founding in 2013, Shorelight has sought to educate the world through making a US university degree attainable for all who seek to study abroad. With a portfolio of more than 100 universities and a global workforce serving international students from over 180 countries, Shorelight is committed to ensuring every stakeholder feels welcome, respected, and valued.
Who We Are
Innovative thinkers. Genuine collaborators. Resourceful problem- solvers. Passionate change-makers. Industry all-stars. An inclusive, mission-driven team drawn together to transform the face of international higher education.
We are student-focused
Everything we do aligns to their journey and their success.
We embrace challenges
We are entrepreneurs and innovators, powered by the will to excel.
We are true partners
We are transparent and committed to meaningful collaboration.
We deliver
We are outcomes-oriented and fulfill our promises to all our stakeholders.
We have fun
We genuinely enjoy each other and foster an environment of inclusion.

Our Student Impact

A smiling male international student in a red plaid shirt sits across from a female interviewer during a student visa interview.

Student Ambassadors

Enrolled international students address the unique needs of prospective students across our campuses, through the application process and into the first year.
Three international students, two female students, and one male having a conversation about upcoming orientation programs at their US university orientation.

Pre-Arrival Counseling & Orientations

International students receive travel, cultural, and social support so they are prepared to succeed — in class and beyond — once on campus.
A diverse group of five international students stand in a field and hold flags from Italy, the USA, the UK, and Brazil.

International Education Week (IEW)

Held annually in November, International Education Week celebrates the many values and benefits of bringing culturally diverse perspectives to US university campuses.

Our People

Get to know Shorelight’s employees around the world.
Sarah McKenzie, director of academic operations projects at Shorelight and a member of the company's LGBTQIA+ employee resource group, smiles for the camera.

Sarah McKenzie

Originally from the UK, Sarah has held several roles during her 10+ years at Shorelight, currently as director of academic operations projects. An experienced lecturer in English Literature with a PhD from the University of Warwick, she volunteers her expertise for the Beacon Hill Seminars in Boston. She is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group, and mentors and supports people in finding their authentic selves.

William Schaper, student services director, Adelphi International at Adelphi University, stands in profile and smiles

William Schaper

William is student services director at Adelphi International at Adelphi University and co-chair of Shorelight’s Latino employee resource group. Prior to Shorelight, William taught elementary- and secondary-level English in Madrid, Spain. In his free time, he enjoys international travel and exploring the diverse neighborhoods of his current home, New York City.

Shirley Xu

With over 20 years in international education, Shirley drives Shorelight’s global recruitment strategy and partnership development. She brings extensive expertise in building high-performing teams and developing strategic relationships across markets. Since joining Shorelight in 2014, she has served in key leadership roles including VP of Channel Development and Student Recruitment Director for Greater China, consistently delivering exceptional results in expanding student access to US higher education.

 Shirley holds Master’s degrees from York University and the University of Nottingham.

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