Thailand, Nepal, China, Mozambique, and Cambodia are just a few of the countries this years William G. Dyer Distinguished Alumni Award winner has visited. While most people may only visit a handful of countries in their lifetimes, Joan Dixon's work on issues such as literacy and poverty has taken her literally all over the world.

The Dyer Distinguished Alumni Award is given every year to an alumnus or alumna who has made notable contributions to the field of organizational behavior.

"I'm not very typical of the organizational behavior program alumni as I have never sought a career in business or formal institutions," said Dixon. "So it means a lot to me to be recognized for applying the theories and principles of OB (organizational behavior) in other settings."

Dixon says she was first introduced to third-world countries on the mission she served for the Church. Dixon's missionary service took her to Hong Kong, China and Thailand. While on her mission she discovered that she felt very at home in these countries.

While serving in Thailand, Dixon worked with Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian refugees who would later resettle in the U.S.

After her mission Dixon earned a master's degree in organizational behavior from BYU where she met some of her current colleagues, including Kate Kirkham, a professor in the Organizational Leadership and Strategies Program.

"Her character and compassion are as important as her preparation and intellect," said Kirkham.

Dixon's acceptance to the University of Massachusetts took her to the east coast for the next 10 years. While earning her doctorate degree at the university's Center for International Education, Dixon met people from all over the world who were already doing community-based development work.

"I learned all of the theories, strategies and skills from my fellow students, professors and visiting practitioners and scholars," said Dixon.

During her 10 years there she also worked on development projects, like a literacy programs based in Massachusetts and Nepal.

"It was the perfect blend between academic study and practical experience," Dixon said.

Dixon has since been working for non-government organizations as a consultant in several countries. She assists developing countries in implementing programs for adult literacy and health and hygiene education.

Scott Creer, the OBSA (Organizational Behavior Students Association) alumni vice president, recalled his thoughts about Dixon at the award ceremony which took place recently.

"Joan figured out what she wanted out of her life and made it happen," Creer said. "She took her career in a different direction than most and makes a difference in the lives of people who really need it."

Currently Dixon serves as an adjunct faculty member of the Marriott School and as the academic director for the BYU Economic Self-Reliance Center.

Copyright Brigham Young University 10 Jun 2008