At a glance
During the panel, participants discussed global compassion and care and cross-cultural exchange, and explored ways in which one could be a “global citizen.”
In recognition of International Education Week (IEW) 2019, Alfred State College (ASC) recently held several events that celebrated cultural diversity, as well as the benefits of international education and exchange.
A joint initiative of the US Department of State and the US Department of Education, International Education Week is part of an effort to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences.
Among the IEW events that took place at Alfred State were a study abroad information session, God’s eye crafting event, a drinks-around-the-world event, African bead jewelry-making, a Korean spicy noodle challenge, and a CommUNITY potluck in which students, employees, and community members can come share food, culture, and conversation with one another. Also attending the potluck this year was a guest foreign exchange student from Belgium currently attending Wellsville High School. ASC’s International Education Week events were organized by both the Office of International Education and the International Club.
Additionally, Alfred State once again hosted the Cornell University Humphrey Fellows, who are members of a prestigious fellowship program that provides professionals from developing countries an opportunity to enhance their leadership potential and managerial skills.
to senior-level Alfred State mechanical engineering technology students about UN
climate change policy during International Education Week 2019. Photo courtesy of
Cornell University Humphrey Fellows Assistant Director Francine Wilson Jasper.
While visiting Alfred State, two of the Fellows served as guest lecturers in classes, while all nine of the Fellows participated in a panel presentation given to the Nursing LLC faculty and students, international students, and one section of the Global Perspectives Class taught by Provost Dr. Kristin Poppo and Coordinator of International Education Cyan Corwine.
During the panel, participants discussed global compassion and care and cross-cultural exchange, and explored ways in which one could be a “global citizen.” The panel was followed by a dinner with the Fellows, international student leaders, and Alfred State administrators. The Fellows also toured the College Farm, the village fire hall, and participated in another panel discussion on the “importance of international education and cross-cultural exchange in a world that sometimes feels divided,” Corwine said.
Corwine noted that she is always moved and inspired by Alfred State students and guest visits from the Cornell Humphrey Fellows program, and this year was no different.
“I feel honored to work in the capacity I do with so many incredible people, and International Education Week provides us a lovely time to reflect on the rich cultural experiences that make us all who we are, the importance of understanding as we stride ever toward becoming people who work for social good, and the all-important uniting bond that is our shared humanity,” Corwine said. “I am grateful to all who continue to support our efforts and who make this week a success year after year.”