Message from the Executive Director

World hunger. The global economy. Sustainability. World peace. We live in an increasingly complex and interdependent world community in which our beliefs, values, and actions regarding those and other issues are not abstractions, but have real meaning and consequences. As citizens of the world, we encounter each other through our professions and travels, purchases and votes, our words and deeds. As such, sufficient global knowledge and competence is essential to make informed, responsible decisions that will impact others all over the world. Moreover, international experiences enrich our larger community by providing alternative perspectives, ideas and beliefs. When we learn about others, and engage in dialogues and shared experiences, we inevitably encounter ourselves and can better appraise who we are and want to be. Hence, the need for global leaders who understand the interconnected nature of political, economic, ecological, and social systems—and can act from this informed framework—is crucial.

As the central hub for international education at James Madison University , the Office of International Programs is committed to the principle that international experiences and perspectives are essential to undergraduate and graduate education. As such, our mission is to promote and encourage a critical awareness of world issues, a sense of global community, and a commitment to engagement at the international level; a knowledge of and appreciation for other cultures, languages, and belief systems in order to educate active and responsible global citizens. To translate our mission into action, the OIP is committed to providing, supporting, and facilitating international education, research and service for students, faculty and staff at James Madison University.

Take some time to review the rich array of programs supported by the OIP. Then join us in the challenging, exhilarating, and essential journey that is international education. Join us and enrich your world.

Lee Sternberger