By Deanna Howes Spiro, Director of Communications, AJCU
This month’s issue of Connections takes us around the world: from a summer architecture program in Rome to community service projects in the Dominican Republic, and many more stops in between. We’re excited to let you know what’s happening in study abroad programs and international education at Jesuit colleges and universities.
In today’s globalized and interconnected society, it is crucial for students to have exposure to life in countries outside of their own. As Rev. Daniel Hendrickson, S.J., president of Creighton University, explains in an article about Creighton’s international programs, “Involvement in the wider world is a critical component of life at Creighton. It stems from Creighton’s identity as a Jesuit university and reflects the nearly instantaneous emphasis of the Society of Jesus to engage, understand, and impact the world.”
Jesuit colleges and universities are finding new ways to collaborate across the world and help to serve those at the margins. In another article, you will learn about the impact of the Spring Hill College Italy Center on a recent Xavier University graduate. During her semester abroad in Bologna, Andrea Solis Canto had the opportunity to work with two organizations that support migrants in Italy, an experience that showed her “what solidarity rooted in love” looks like.
International education does more than open minds: it opens hearts and changes lives. Through this issue of Connections, I hope that you enjoy learning about the ways that our schools’ study abroad programs are doing just that!