Changing World Views, One Student at a Time

Depending on who’s doing the talking, our world is shrinking, becoming flat, or merging into one large village. Whatever the metaphor, it’s clear that nations have grown dependent on one another, and students must be prepared to succeed in this global economy. “The world has changed whether we want to believe in globalization or not,” says Marianne Hopper, dean of University Programs. “Students will live in a world of global interconnectedness, and we need to help them prepare for it.”

Responding to this need, St. Edward’s recently launched a comprehensive Global Understanding Initiative. Developed over the past five years, the initiative will help ensure that students graduate with the ability to evaluate events and issues with an international perspective through:

• Thematic Programming: Each year, the freshman class will collectively study a global theme that begins with summer reading of a common book. Throughout the year, they’ll build on their learning with relevant speakers and programs, including a corresponding theater production at the Mary Moody Northen Theatre. This year, students will explore the theme “Discovering Leadership: Courage, Conscience and Character.”

• Enhanced Curriculum: Revamped world-themed courses such as History and Evolution of Global Processes and Contemporary World will give students a thorough understanding of significant global matters, as well as the history of global economics, politics and cultural processes from the 16th through the 21st century.
• Global Understanding Certificate Program: Students participating in this certificate program will learn about the arts and humanities through World Religions, special sections of Literature and the Human Experience, and Understanding and Appreciating the Arts. The program also requires students to study abroad. Once they return, they’ll deliver presentations that examine their experiences. Those who earn the certificate will have demonstrated a mastery of a non-English language, and they’ll also have completed a senior Capstone project that focuses on global issues and understanding.

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