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Interim director
of International Programs stays connected

By Stephanie Rodriguez

Dr. Berta Gonzalez has several goals in her new position of interim director of International Programs, including a very timely one: finding ways to continue connecting with those international students who unexpectedly returned to their countries this fall.

"They are our students, and we must explore alternative ways to deliver instruction to them," said Gonzalez, who succeeds Dr. Peter Klassen, who retired. "For many it is imperative that they don't lose continuity in their programs of study."

She also would like to see more American students take advantage of the international programs for study abroad. And, she said, students can learn about other cultures by going to a different part of the United States or by interacting with international students on campus, for example, through attending the weekly Tuesday afternoon International Coffee hour held at the Bistro 1540 restaurant.

"The rich diversity in this valley is so wonderful that it beckons for us to embrace and learn from each other on a daily basis," said Gonzalez. Also high on her list of goals is fostering more collaboration among faculty members, both on campus and abroad.

"There is success in teaming and in sharing expertise," she said. "We live in a changing world. We are experiencing a different kind of normality, and therefore it is important to engage in dialogue and gain understanding about our global community."

Gonzalez has firsthand experience in the international community. She has done consultant work for more than 20 countries, including Nicaragua, El Salvador, Mexico, Thailand and China. A professor in the Kremen School of Education and Human Development, Gonzalez was associate dean before taking this new assignment. She will continue to provide guidance for the Interprofessional Collaboration Program, which encompasses 12 departments in three schools on campus.

Stephanie Rodriguez is a University Relations intern.

Back to University Journal, 11/12/01 Issue