Secretary of State Colin L. Powell and Secretary of Education Rod Paige have called for the celebration of International Education Week, November 15-19, 2004. International Education Week is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States. Mercer University will be one of the participating schools during this week.
“It has become very clear that broadening our international understanding is critical.” said Paige. “This will mean renewed efforts to encourage the study of foreign languages and cultures, and to provide opportunities for all students to broaden their knowledge of the world.”
Powell added, “People-to-people diplomacy, created through international education and exchanges, is critical to our national interests. Americans who study abroad expand their global perspective and become more internationally engaged. Foreign students and individuals who participate in citizen exchanges return home with a greater knowledge of our democratic institutions, and America’s enduring values.”
Mercer University is committed to engaging its students with the rest of the world.
“We live in an interdependent global society. Mercer’s American graduates will compete in an international division of labor and enter a world of diverse cultures and opinions. Being exposed to all things international (foreign students, study abroad, world politics and different cultures) will help prepare them for the challenges that lie ahead,” said Dr. Eric Spears, director of International Programs. “International Education Week is a great way to explore some of the unique aspects of our global community right here on campus.”
In observance of International Education Week, Mercer University’s Macon Campus is promoting international education by offering the following activities.
Monday, November 15th, at 7 p.m., Stetson Hall, Room 251 : a presentation of the film “Lost In Translation,” starring Bill Murray. The film explores the cross-cultural communication and culture shock of two Americans visiting Tokyo, Japan. A discussion of the film and of cross-cultural relations between the United States and Japan will follow. (Location & Time: Event is sponsored by the Mercer International Affairs Organization (MIAO).
Wednesday, November 17th, at 6 p.m., McCorkle Music Building Rehearsal Room: Political Science Lecture Series, “Where Would the World Be Without U.S. Hegemony? Analyzing U.S. Foreign Policy” by Dr. Greg Domin of the Mercer University Department of Political Science. This event is sponsored by the Department of Political Science.
Wednesday, November 17th, at 7 p.m. in the Medical School Auditorium : International Talent & Fashion Show. Mercer’s international student and community will present an eclectic presentation of culture, art, music and dance. This event is sponsored by the Mercer International Student Association (MISA).
Friday, November 19th, at 10a.m. in the Connell Student Center Conference Room 2 : Study Abroad Information Session. Learn more about Mercer’s different semester and short-term study abroad programs. This event sponsored by the Office of Study Abroad.
For more information, contact the Office of International Programs at 301-2573.
