On Thursday September 19th, the second floor of Primera Casa transformed into a hub of connection and celebration during the Global Learning Open House. Faculty, staff, and visiting fellows gathered to build relationships, share ideas, and renew their commitment to global learning and collaboration at Florida International University.
The Office of Global Learning Initiatives (OGLI) welcomed over 50 attendees from all 11 Colleges throughout the University at the Open House. Representatives from a wide range of academic programs came together to reinforce their commitment to global learning and FIU’s founding goal of fostering greater international understanding.
Assistant Vice President of Global Learning Initiatives Dr. Hilary Landorf congratulated the attendees by saying “All of you in this room embody the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of global learning at FIU. As continuous and determined global learners yourselves, you help your students make essential connections between your own content areas and other disciplines, local issues and those around the world, and, most important, the unique perspectives of each and every student.”
A highlight of the afternoon was the OGLI’s public recognition of our Notable Faculty members, acknowledging the tremendous work of faculty who actively engage in global learning in and out of their classrooms. This initiative honors those who have made significant contributions to global learning at FIU, enriching the educational experiences of all students. These accomplished individuals were presented with a small pin amplifying their dedication and impact on our academic community.
The Notable Faculty program has become a cornerstone of our global learning efforts, celebrating excellence in teaching and community engagement. Faculty members who have excelled in these areas are not only recognized for their achievements but are also encouraged to share their insights and experiences with peers, in publications, and in presentations, fostering a culture of global learning partnership, research, and innovation.
Throughout the event, attendees took advantage of the opportunity to network and exchange ideas. Conversations ranged from collaborative research projects to innovative teaching strategies, as faculty and staff explored ways to enhance their global learning practice.
In addition to celebrating our Notable Faculty, the Open House served as a platform to introduce a series of informal gatherings planned for the academic year. Every third Thursday of the month, faculty and staff will come together for casual global learning hangouts, designed to foster community across the university. These gatherings aim to break down barriers, encourage collaboration, and create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and engaged in their teaching practice. The Open House was a great kickoff for this initiative, with many expressing excitement about the upcoming opportunities to connect.
As the event drew to a close, it was clear that the Global Learning Open House had successfully ignited a renewed sense of community among attendees for the 2024-2025 academic year. The commitment to fostering relationships and sharing knowledge will undoubtedly enhance the university's global learning mission and contribute to FIU’s vibrant environment.
As we look forward, the Global Learning Open House stands as a testament to global learning’s commitment to collaboration, community building, and global engagement. Together, we will continue to foster an environment where ideas flourish and partnerships thrive, creating a richer, more vibrant academic community for all.
