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Contact: David West
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466
4/22/98
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NATCHITOCHES - As the 21st century approaches, American colleges and universities need to look beyond our borders and think internationally. That was the message brought to students and faculty at Northwestern State University by Dr. John Kerrigan, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh.
Kerrigan was the guest speaker at the NSU College of Liberal Arts Recognition Banquet. During the event, the College recognized its faculty and graduating seniors. The first Excellence in the Liberal Arts Award was presented to Martha Cecchini of Natchitoches for her work with NSU's international students.
According to Kerrigan, Northwestern is a university that can look around the world to develop new ties that can provide opportunities for faculty and students.
"We need to broaden our vision to encompass the diversity that is in the world," said Kerrigan. "There is competition among the people of the world and we need to develop people that can compete in the global arena."
Kerrigan pointed out the base of reference in the world is doubling at an accelerated rate. He said two centuries ago it took 150 years for that base to double. By the year 2020, the base of reference will double every 73 days.
"As teachers, we are no longer able to teach students the information we need because the amount is increasing too rapidly," said Kerrigan. "The teacher is now the knowledge navigator."
Kerrigan encouraged NSU to "infuse the curriculum with an international perspective.'' He also said students should study more foreign languages. According to Kerrigan, Northwestern could offer more foreign language majors or work with other universities to jointly offer courses if faculty are not available.
Other ways to provide more international perspectives would be schedule lecturers who could speak on international topics, set up a model United Nations and continue to develop ties with international institutions. Northwestern has set up exchange programs with universities in Spain, the Czech Republic and India. Kerrigan said NSU could also work with the State Department of Economic Development to develop contacts benefiting the university and the state.
"There has to be a broad institutional commitment," he said. "And there has to be mutual respect and a balance. There are also many benefits. You can get local businesses involved. Alumni overseas would be thrilled to hear that someone from Northwestern will be visiting them. But you have to take the long view and have patience and persistence."