Statement on International Education Week 2001
"During International Education Week, November 12-16, the Department of State recognizes the role that international education and exchange play in strengthening our nation and our relations with other countries.
Among the State Department's best-known activities is the Fulbright scholarship program, which since its inception has given nearly a quarter of a million Americans and foreign citizens the opportunity to study and teach abroad. We are proud that the high quality of American colleges and universities attracts students and scholars from around the world. These individuals enrich our communities with their academic abilities and cultural diversity, and they return home with an increased understanding and often a lasting affection for the United States. I can think of no more valuable asset to our country than the friendship of future world leaders who have been educated here.
At the same time, it is important for American students to learn other languages, experience foreign cultures, and develop a broad understanding of global issues. I am pleased that our new Gilman International Scholarship program will open study abroad opportunities to students with financial need, thus increasing both the number and diversity of participants in international exchanges.
International education prepares our citizens to live, work, and compete in the global economy, and promotes tolerance and the reduction of conflict. In November 2001 U.S. embassies around the world will carry out activities in support of International Education Week. I encourage schools, businesses and communities to join with us in commemorating International Education Week."
Powell, Colin. (August 7, 2001). "Statement on International Education Week 2001," U.S. Department of State.
Letter from Colin Powell to Dr. Myles Brand
“Dear Dr. Brand:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Big Ten Council of Presidents and Chancellors, expressing concern that new measures mandated after September 11 may be sending negative messages to prospective students in other countries.
Please be assured of the State Department’s strong commitment to international education and exchange. The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs manages over 90 programs, including the flagship Fulbright fellowships, to encourage mutual understanding through exchange. We also support over 400 overseas educational advising centers that assist foreign students interested in pursuing studies in the United States. The Department’s policy on student visas is based on the democratic values of an open society and the perception that foreign students make an important contribution to our nation’s intellectual and academic climate, as well as to our nation’s economy. We must continue to nurture these vital relationships even as we improve the security of our borders.
We are proud that our country’s educational system has attracted more than a half million international students and scholars to our campuses. In a recent cable to all U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, we noted that our doors and our educational institutions remain open to all qualified students from around the world. American values, including democracy, economic freedom and individual rights, draw students from many nations. As these students and scholars from other countries gain from our society and academic institutions, they also serve as resources for our campuses and our communities, helping our citizens to develop the international understanding needed to strengthen our long-term national security and enhance our economic competitiveness. The professional partnerships and lifelong friendships that are created through international education are important for a secure, prosperous future not only for our own country but for the world as a whole.
You and your colleagues may want to issue your own public messages of welcome. Our diplomatic posts work with local audiences to raise awareness of continued U.S. support for international study. Our embassies and advising centers report that web-based or other messages from U.S. institutions would be a great help in demonstrating that our doors remain open.
Thank you for your commitment to this important issue.
Sincerely,
Colin L. Powell
Dr. Myles Brand
President, Indiana University
Bryan Hall 200,
Bloomington, Indiana 47405-1201.”
Powell, Colin. (February 27, 2002). “Letter from Colin Powell to Dr. Myles Brand, President of Indiana University.”
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