Dear friends,
This edition of eDividend reveals our powerful research and education programs that transcend international borders, resulting in innovative global business solutions and life-changing experiences for students who choose to study abroad.
International study is a core component of the business training in the Carson College. Our features showcase how Cougs at every level benefit from the experience—from learning about the business climate in another country, to creating new, collaborative research opportunities, and even finding love.
Our feature on MISE student Annika Wottreng illustrates the complex potential for international travel to expand perspectives, helping young students to adopt a global mindset and align their career aspirations with their studies.
Alums Jake and Emily Stevens first met during a study abroad trip to Greece. In addition to finding their future spouse, the two say they also formed powerful relationships with other students and faculty in the program. Their destination wedding on the Greek island Santorini was predominantly attended by Cougs and featured a crimson and gray flag for guests to sign.
Other stories in this issue highlight the pervasive value international experience can have for Cougs at every stage of their career.
A shining example of this is Julie Nelsen, marketing professor and director of the CCB Center for Professional Sales at WSU Vancouver, who’s recent faculty development trip to South Korea helped to spur a new and novel path of research.
Our feature on executive MBA alum Rachel Tsang, a certified architect living in Hong Kong, shows how she was able to gain new skills and change her professional trajectory with the help of the Carson College’s flexible remote programming. She is now head of creative for the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.
Our International Business Institute, established in 1996, is the hub of international education programs in the college, providing transformative opportunities for students and faculty alike. Faculty member Jeff Joireman was recently selected to head the institute, reinforcing the college’s commitment to pursuing scholarly work with global reach. As you’ll read about in his feature, he aims to unify our various efforts, develop a stronger identity, and increase participation in our international programs.
In university news, Washington State University is expanding its relationships with universities in central and western Africa as part of ongoing efforts to further scholarly exchange and leverage expertise to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
As we reflect on the inspiring stories shared in this edition of eDividend, let us remember the Carson College of Business thrives on fostering a global mindset among its students, alums, and faculty. I encourage you to engage with the college to help us support faculty in creating diverse opportunities that enrich our students’ educational experiences.
Go Cougs!
Debbie Compeau, Interim Dean