2009-2014 Strategic Plan Goal 5:Expand International Connections

Goal 5: Expand International Connections

Mission: Emphasize the international focus of the University. Expand student understanding of international cultures through globally conscious curricula and participation in projects that have an international component. Encourage and recognize faculty international initiatives and provide increased opportunities for student travel and learning abroad through additional faculty-led programs. Promote the strengths of our existing unique programs that have international emphasis, such as the Graduate Program in International Studies and our faculty-led Study Abroad programs, and develop new international collaborations where feasible. Improve connections with internationally focused organizations adjacent to ODU in Hampton Roads (such as the military installations, port operations, Operation Smile, and NATO). Increase international representation of students and faculty on campus.

Rationale: Old Dominion University has long prided itself on being open to the world. With one of the largest cohorts of international students in the Commonwealth of Virginia, a variety of study abroad and exchange programs, and shared interests with internationally focused organizations like NATO and the armed forces, we are already heavily invested in global thinking and activities. Many of ODU's faculty have research or scholarly activities in collaboration with faculty in other countries; these connections could form the basis for additional faculty and student exchange programs. Amid the challenges created by the recent world economic crisis and the heightened alerts in the wake of terrorist incidents, it is crucial that the University maintain its emphasis on an international outlook in order to keep lines of communication open among students, faculty, citizens of the Commonwealth, and the rest of the world.

Enhance International Curricula and Study Abroad Opportunities

Create incentives for faculty to enhance the international component of the undergraduate experience, stressing the international dimensions of course content whenever feasible and offering additional study abroad and international project experiences. Recognize faculty involvement in international and intercultural curricular development in tenure and promotion decisions. Sponsor intercultural seminars and experiences and pursue additional scholarships for domestic students to study abroad.

Develop and Support a More Diverse International Community

Enhance the international diversity within the faculty and student body through targeted recruitment and follow-up mentoring to assure retention of high-achieving individuals from underrepresented national and cultural backgrounds. Ensure international graduate students are adequately prepared for teaching and research assistantships through targeted workshops and training programs.

Expand Beneficial Global Collaborations

Expand beneficial connections with internationally-focused agencies, including NATO and the military, and with international universities. Develop active institutional, faculty, and student relationships with international entities. Explore, and implement where appropriate, dual and joint-degree programs with prestigious international universities.

Host international symposia and conferences by providing facilities and support structure, including use of distance-learning technology. Encourage faculty to assume leadership positions in international organizations.