A Message from the Dean

Remarkable ambassadors foster international education efforts around the world

William Reisinger, Associate Provost and Dean of International Programs

At The University of Iowa and within International Programs, we are fortunate to have students, faculty and staff who go above and beyond – on our campus, across the state and around the world. These individuals truly symbolize what it means to be a remarkable ambassador to and for the world. Whether partaking in overseas research, studying abroad or cultivating understanding within our state, these individuals are living examples of what International Programs is best at – helping the University of Iowa community learn from and about the world.

But it goes even further. Everyone affiliated with IP is an international ambassador, not just at the UI, but across the state, throughout the U.S., and around the world. The individuals, programs and centers highlighted within this issue of “International Accents” are all remarkable ambassadors. The new Bridge and Going Global in Iowa programs, through the Office of International Students and Scholars, serve both the UI community and the state of Iowa by increasing awareness of diversity issues and cross-cultural training initiatives.

Professor Judy Polumbaum and the 26 student volunteers taking part in the 2008 Beijing Olympics are serving the world as ambassadors from the State of Iowa, working as English language writers and reporters during the upcoming summer games. Our most recent class of Stanley fellowship recipients is changing lives around the globe through their international research and service. A recent graduate of our M.A. program, Hilary Frost-Kumpf, is helping create a new global studies curriculum for students at the University of Illinois-Springfield.

So you see, we have lots of exciting things going on within IP.Things and people that we take great pride in. I hope you enjoy this issue of Accents, and I am sure you will be as impressed with and proud of the individuals featured within these pages as we are.

Please be part of this. Private giving to International Programs made possible all the opportunities featured in this issue. Each donation in support of internationalization makes a big difference. Your generosity today opens even more doors for our future ambassadors.

William Reisinger
Associate Provost and Dean of International Programs