November 18, 2004

Boise State Launches Task Force On Internationalization

Boise State University has formed a new task force to address the integration of an international dimension across the university. The charge to the task force is to develop a plan for the comprehensive internationalization of Boise State, recognizing the synergy across the breadth of academic programs, administrative departments, student services, research and outreach activities. President Bob Kustra announced the need for an international task force in his State of the University address in August. Any effort to address citizenship skills must reach beyond our borders and include an international dimension that is an integral, seamless and a continuous part of the undergraduate educational experience, Kustra noted. Boise State is launching a number of new initiatives designed to enhance civic engagement across campus. The Task Force on Internationalization is part of this initiative, and also recognizes the strong need for international education in today s interconnected world, global economy and multicultural society. The week of Nov. 15-19 has officially been designated as International Education Week by the United States departments of State and Education. International Education Week is celebrated on campuses across the United States and around the world to highlight awareness of other cultures, the need for students to gain global competency and the integration of an international dimension in higher education. By launching the task force during International Education Week, Boise State Provost Sona Andrews hopes to highlight efforts at Boise State. This is an important topic for Boise State University, she said. We already have a number of important international initiatives and a strong International Programs office. The creation of the task force will focus our efforts on expanding opportunities for students, faculty, staff and our community. It is a vital component of our larger vision of becoming a metropolitan research university of distinction and contributing to the global perspective and knowledge required of our citizenry. Michael Blankenship, dean of the College of Social Sciences and Public Affairs, and Sabine Klahr, director of International Programs, have agreed to serve as co-chairs of the executive task force. The following individuals have agreed to serve on the task force: Kent Neupert, International Business Teresa Boucher, Modern Languages and Literatures Elisa Barney-Smith, Electrical and Computer Engineering James Cook, Music Barbara Fortin, Admissions Rob Meyer, Student Union and Activities Ellie McKinnon, Extended Studies The task force will also include a student and a community representative. Members will each co-chair a sub-committee that will address a specific topic or function of the university, according to members expertise. The co-chairs of each sub-committee will solicit membership from throughout the university, so anyone with an interest in participating will have a chance to do so. Completion of the final report and plan for internationalization from the task force is anticipated by December 2005. For more information or to get involved, call International Programs at 426-3652. -30- Contact: Sabine Klahr, International Programs, (208) 426-3652, sklahr@boisestate.edu  Media Contact: Sherry Squires, communications and marketing, (208) 426-1563, ssquires@boisestate.edu