EUGENE, Oregon (October 17, 2013) – The University of Oregon announced this week the launch of its new Global Studies Institute (GSI), a home for internationally oriented centers, programs and new initiatives within the Office of International Affairs (OIA).
GSI’s mission is to support internationally oriented research centers, programs, and initiatives that enhance faculty research, enrich the student experience, globalize the campus, and promote the University of Oregon’s academic excellence with partners around the world.
“The Global Studies Institute is a robust network of shared resources, administrative support, intellectual community building, and joint fundraising for internationally-oriented units and initiatives,” explained Vice Provost for International Affairs Dennis Galvan.
The institute currently includes seven international centers and programs: Center for Asian and Pacific Studies (CAPS), Confucius Institute for Global China Studies, Center for Applied Second Language Studies (CASLS), Gabon-Oregon Transnational Research Center on Environment and Development (GOC), Savage Committee for International Relations and Peace, and Oregon African Studies Consortium (OASC).
“The creation of the new Global Studies Institute brings many UO international activities under one roof,” said Interim Provost Scott Coltrane. “Grouped in this way, the various units will work together more closely, develop joint projects, and strengthen our profile as an internationally engaged research university."
The new institute is intended to strengthen the operations of all its members. In the months to come, GSI units will share grant writing, fundraising, marketing and communications resources.
“Establishing the Global Studies Institute is an essential step forward in the process of the internationalization of the University of Oregon,” said Ina Assim, executive director Confucius Institute. “The GSI represents the connections to the many world regions accessible to UO students and faculty for learning and conducting research.”
GSI works in close collaboration with allied units such as the American English Institute (AEI), Network Startup Resource Center (NSRC), Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies (CLLAS), Center for Conflict Sensitive Reporting and Intercultural Dialogue, the College of Arts and Sciences language and international departments and programs and the Yamada Language Center.
About the UO Office of International Affairs
The Office of International Affairs (OIA) is committed to advancing the global engagement and mission of the University of Oregon. OIA works collaboratively with universities, agencies, partners, investors, and programs worldwide to foster academic exchange, transdisciplinary research, and international cooperation.
About the Global Studies Institute
The University of Oregon’s Global Studies Institute supports internationally-oriented research, works with schools and colleges to develop new internationally-oriented curriculum, fosters cutting-edge collaborations with partner institutions worldwide, and creates knowledge that will inspire the next generation of global citizens.
Chakris Kussalanant
Director of Marketing and Communications
Office of International Affairs