Goshen College professor awarded Fulbright fellowship for sustainability research in Indonesia

Dr. John Mischler, associate professor of sustainability and environmental education at Goshen College, has recently been honored with a Fulbright fellowship. This award will foster his educational collaboration with universities in Indonesia, where he has been involved in farm-based research related to sustainability. Mischler will conduct his research in Indonesia from February to August 2025.

The Fulbright Scholar Program, funded primarily by Congress and supported by various international entities, plays a crucial role in U.S. public diplomacy by fostering long-term international relationships.

A biogeochemist by training, Mischler’s research focuses primarily on examining phosphorus levels in ecosystems. His ongoing projects include prairie grazing management, studying mycotoxins in Tanzanian crops in collaboration with Goshen College President Rebecca Stoltzfus and surveying food availability and quality in Elkhart County, Indiana.

“It is a great honor to be awarded a Fulbright fellowship,” said Mischler. “I see it as a time to refocus on larger questions within farm-based university curriculums and lay the groundwork for continued collaboration.”

Ann Vendrely, vice president for academic affairs and academic dean, underscored the importance of Mischler’s Fulbright US Scholar Award, noting it as a distinguished recognition for the college and a testament to its reputation among universities.

“This project will allow Dr. Mischler to expand his current research with professional colleagues and students in a new context,” said Vendrely. “Additionally, he is expanding relationships with Goshen College partners that he met during his leadership of the Study-Service Term in Indonesia.”

Mischler’s enthusiasm for international work and experiencing different cultures is evident, as he places great value in understanding how various parts of the world operate, and connect, with students around the world.

“There is a wide range of existence outside this country that allows a global community to flourish,” said Mischler. “It aids in thinking about problems more deeply and working towards solutions.”