The Student Trustee Exchange

     The Governors State University mission statement expresses the need for students to participate in a global society and the pursuit to make our institution a model of diversity. Even though we have a diverse student body, the quest for student participation in a global society requires not only a diverse presence on campus, but also diverse interaction and knowledge.

     Many students around the world travel abroad during their academic studies in higher education.  In support of international education and global exchange, GSU will join the United States Department of State and Department of Education for the celebration of International Education Week, from November 11 through 15.

     International Education Week, also known as IEW, was first celebrated in the year 2000 within the United States. Now, this celebration is held annually in over 100 countries. According to the U.S. Deptartment of State website, the purpose of this celebration is to promote international understanding and to build support for international educational exchange by encouraging the development of programs that prepare Americans to live and work in a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study in the United States.

     The Office of International Services and the International Culture Organization have worked together to prepare a week of exciting events for IEW 2013. On November 11, many student organizations have joined to offer a "Tour Around the World in less than 80 Days," which will include international activities and materials from around the world, live international performances, and free international food. Throughout the week there will be presentations by international scholars, information sessions about traveling abroad, and even an international display case with daily trivia questions and prizes.

     Don't miss out on this opportunity to embrace cultural diversity and to participate in your global society. If you would like more information about the national celebration of International Education Week, visit the U.S. Department of State website at http://eca.state.gov/programs-initiatives/international-education-week/. Of course, you can always email me any of your questions at KRandolph-Clark@govst.edu. I hope to see you for the IEW festivities!