UKIC Releases Global Engagement Academy Offerings for Fall 2021

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 6, 2021) — As the University of Kentucky continues to become a more diverse campus, it also becomes increasingly imperative to support international faculty, staff and students.

With that goal in mind, the UK International Center (UKIC) launched the Global Engagement Academy (GEA) — a free professional development program designed for faculty and staff to build cross-cutting competencies in international education and engagement.

“As Kentucky’s flagship public research university, global engagement increasingly touches on all our core institutional missions, priorities and enterprises. This engagement will only grow as we continue to serve an increasingly globally connected Commonwealth,” Sue Roberts, associate provost for internationalization, said. “The Global Engagement Academy will help prepare faculty and staff with the tools they need to effectively navigate the complex and changing landscape of international education and research.” 

Through the program, participants are exposed to various aspects of campus internationalization — making it an ideal professional development opportunity for those interested in teaching or conducting research abroad. It will also help faculty and staff learn how to work closely with students and scholars from other countries, manage international transactions and represent the university globally.

Participants will also be trained in how to implement policies and best practices regarding international engagement from experts across campus, while developing cross-cultural communication skills and identifying university resources for international engagement.

Faculty and staff can choose to take as few or as many courses as they want, and there are no pre-requisites. Each course is 1.5 hours and may be taken in-person or via Zoom. Most courses have opportunities to network with other GEA participants built into the learning experience. 

Foundation courses include Internationalization at UK and Global Trends, Intercultural Communication, and Global Mobility. Electives are offered under the following themes or tracks:

• Strategy & Partnership
• International Recruitment
• Going Abroad
• Student Success
• Hiring & Hosting
• Budget & Operations

Those who complete the three foundation courses and any three elective courses within three years, will receive the GEA certificate of completion and become eligible to apply for a $250 academy grant to support their professional development plans.

Registration is now open for Fall 2021 GEA courses. There are two foundation courses and four electives being offered this semester. To register for the Global Engagement Academy, visit the UKIC website. If you have questions, please contact melody.ryan@uky.edu.