Office of International Program News
April 2026
EducationUSA Community College Latin America Tour
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By Patricia Ferguson The Alamo Colleges District joined the EducationUSA Community College Latin America Tour in Ecuador and Peru. The tour aimed to strengthen international recruitment efforts and build partnerships with educational institutions and advisors across the region. District representatives participated in recruitment fairs and high school visits in Quito, Cuenca, and Lima, directly engaging with students and families interested in affordable U.S. education pathways. The tour generated over 2,100 prospective student leads. In addition to recruiting, representatives held key meetings with university officials, technical institutes, and Peru’s Ministry of Education to explore opportunities for student and faculty exchanges. These actions reinforce the Alamo Colleges District’s commitment to expanding global engagement and increasing access to international education opportunities.
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2026 International Graduate Reception
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By Kaitlyn Davis and Patricia Ferguson The Alamo Colleges Office of International Programs hosted the International Graduate Reception on April 8, 2026, with approximately 100 guests, including faculty, staff, family, and students. The event was a testament to the collective efforts of our community in supporting our 36 graduating international students and Alamo Global Student Distinction recipients, who were recognized for their involvement in internationalizing the Alamo Colleges. Keynote speakers were Professor Russ Wagner from Palo Alto College and Januka Budhathoki, a graduating international student from San Antonio College. Januka is one of the first international students earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. Both emphasized the importance of global learning experiences for opening people’s minds, building resilience, and empowering them to create an impact in an interconnected world. The ceremony marks the culmination for students and families as they complete this chapter of their educational journey.
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Archives
2026
January 2026
Incoming International Students Welcomed at the Spring 2026 F-1 Compliance Seminar
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By Kaitlyn Davis The Office of International Programs welcomed 26 incoming F-1 international students to the Alamo Colleges District. The spring F-1 Compliance Seminar was held on January 14, 2026, at the Nursing and Allied Health Building at San Antonio College. The seminar provided an opportunity to meet other incoming international students and members of the International Faculty Committee, learn more about how to maintain visa status, get involved in international programs activities, and hear from speakers from VIA Bus about the student U-PASS, Texas DMV regarding obtaining a driver’s license, and Alamo DPS to share on-campus safety protocols. We wish each of these students much success on their education journey.
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Continued Partnership to Improve the Educational Environment in North America
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By Reynaldo Cano In continuing the partnership with Mexico’s Ministry of Education, the Office of International Programs, in collaboration with Northwest Vista College, offered a weeklong Teaching English as a Second Language program. The one-week course was a culmination of a three-week online training course provided in 2025. The partnership has continued to evolve from its initial version of providing instruction to soon-to-be graduates with a bachelor’s degree in education with a concentration in English to now receiving 20 professional educators with years of experience. The group included 4 Ph.D.s and 4 Master's degree individuals in Education, and 7 additional people teaching in education courses in Higher Educational institutions. The group provided great reviews of the course and of the additional cultural programming. A second group with the same profile will participate in a weeklong program in March 2026. We look forward to continuing our training collaboration with the Ministry of Education in Mexico and to expanding the depth and breadth of our training programming in the future. |
Three Alamo Colleges Students Selected to Participate in Inaugural Future Talent Council Global Student Fellowship Program.
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In collaboration with the Future Talent Council (FTC) and Office of International Programs, three students from the Alamo Colleges District were selected by the Future Talent Council (FTC) to participate in an inaugural Global Student Fellowship Program. As fellows, these students will collaborate with 28 students from 10 countries to develop future-ready skills through expert-led masterclasses, critical AI engagement, and cross-cultural teamwork. The six-month fellowship will culminate with a trip to Stockholm, Sweden, where the students will participate in the FTC annual Summit. More information about the program can be found here: https://futuretalentcouncil.org/future-talent-council-launches-inaugural-global-student-fellowship-cohort/. |
2025
December 2025
New International Articulation Opens Doors for Business Graduates
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By LaTanya Kurney In October 2025, the Alamo Colleges District welcomed Aude Leclerc from Rennes School of Business (SB) to share news about an international articulation for students graduating with a business degree. The articulation allows students to transfer their associate’s degree to Rennes SB in France and complete a U.S.-recognized bachelor’s degree in one year. The Rennes SB program is conducted entirely in English, includes three hours of French language classes, and offers an internship opportunity. Students receiving financial aid may also apply for FAFSA. For more details, contact the Office of International Programs at dst-alamo@alamo.edu or visit our internal resources.
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Gwangju Delegation from South Korea Brings Kimchi Masters and K-Pop Faculty to Alamo Colleges
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By Maria Rivera The Alamo Colleges District was honored to welcome a visiting delegation from Gwangju, South Korea, one of San Antonio’s official sister cities. The delegation included two kimchi masters and professional K-pop dance faculty from Chosun University, emphasizing our commitment to fostering meaningful cultural connections and inspiring community pride. The kimchi masters hosted a live demonstration at St. Philip’s College Culinary Arts program, teaching students the art of traditional Korean kimchi—its fermentation process, regional variations, and deep cultural roots. The Chosun University dance faculty collaborated with Palo Alto College students for a K-pop dance Performance in the Performing Arts Auditorium. The event will feature choreography, music, and cultural exchange, celebrating the global impact of Korean pop culture. This collaboration complements the Alamo Colleges’ upcoming Study Abroad Program to South Korea in Summer 2026, which will include a visit to Gwangju and a partnership experience at Chosun University. It aims to inspire students by offering immersive opportunities to explore Korean history, language, and leadership, fostering a sense of excitement for international learning. “This partnership with our sister city Gwangju provides incredible opportunities for our students and faculty to learn beyond the classroom,” said an Alamo Colleges representative. “Cultural exchange is one of the best ways to prepare our students to thrive in a global society.” The Gwangju delegation’s visit continues the long-standing friendship between San Antonio and Gwangju, reinforcing our shared commitment to global education, culture, and community. This visit highlights the importance of international partnerships and makes our community feel proud to be part of a globally connected district.
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ACD Faculty honored at the annual Global Learning Awards Luncheon
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By Lindsey Kline, Ph.D. The Office of International Programs concluded International Education Week on Friday, November 21, with the annual Global Learning Faculty Awards Luncheon. The luncheon brought together college and district leaders and faculty committed to expanding international learning opportunities for students. The awards luncheon featured a keynote address from Deneyse Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of TIEC, emphasizing the transformative power of global engagement. Her message aimed to inspire staff to continue fostering meaningful international experiences for students and faculty alike. Seventy-six faculty members from all five colleges were recognized for their outstanding contributions to global learning, including leading study abroad programs, internationalizing curricula for the Global Learning Designation, and developing COIL modules, which demonstrate their leadership in advancing international education across the district. The event underscored the district’s ongoing commitment to global education, aiming to prepare students for success in a globally connected workforce through the dedication, innovation, and leadership of its faculty. |
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International Education Week Shines Across the Alamo Colleges District
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By Patricia Ferguson This year’s International Education Week (IEW) was one of the most vibrant district-wide celebrations to date, featuring more than 70 programs and activities across all five colleges and the Education and Training Centers. Students, faculty, and staff engaged in global performances, roundtables, cultural showcases, and interactive learning experiences that highlighted the importance of intercultural understanding and prepared our students to thrive as global learners. IEW’s success was made possible through the exceptional collaboration of coordinators, faculty, staff, and international education professionals whose creativity and commitment brought meaningful global perspectives to our campuses. Their collective efforts not only made this year’s celebration memorable but also strengthened the district’s ongoing mission to expand global learning opportunities and celebrate the rich diversity of the Alamo Colleges community.
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October 2025
Celebrating the Value of Collaboration with World Affairs Council of San Antonio
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By LaTanya Kurney Alamo Colleges District, in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, is pleased to have hosted the highly successful 2025 Around the World with World Affairs Council of San Antonio event at the ACCESS campus. This annual, large-scale, multicultural celebration and fundraiser, which showcased the vibrant heritage of over 50 countries represented in San Antonio, was a resounding success. The event, held on 13 September, provided an excellent networking opportunity for staff and students, with the debut of the International Student Lounge sponsored by the Office of International Programs being a notable addition. We are already looking forward to the next edition of this wonderful event in 2026 and hope to see you all there.
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Strengthening Our Role in Growing San Antonio Industries
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By Reynaldo Cano As San Antonio continues to grow its industrial base, the link between companies and workforce training becomes a critical part of this growth endeavor. As a result of a tour and briefing for the Director of the Texas Japan Office in Tokyo, Mr. Hiroyuki Watanabe, during a recent visit to St. Philip’s College, Southwest Campus, he connected the Office in International Programs with the Chubu Industrial Engineering Association (CIEA). A delegation of 34 individuals from 25 industrial members in the Tokyo suburb of Chubu, primarily comprising OEMs and Tier-one Toyota suppliers, visited the Southwest Campus on September 15th. The group’s goal was to understand how ACD and regional manufacturing companies collaborate with the industry to ensure a steady supply of trained employees (e.g., TexasFAME, certifications, etc.). Through the tour, they gained insights into both theoretical instruction and the laboratory infrastructure necessary for students to apply their knowledge in practice. They learned that much of the equipment students use is donated by companies as an investment in education. Based on feedback, post-visit, they achieved their objectives and characterized the visit as highly impactful, underlining the significant influence of the event on their understanding and future plans.
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Changing Students’ Lives Through Experiences
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By Alejandra Bueno and Reynaldo Cano Reynaldo Cano, from the Office of International Programs, welcomed a new group of students from Querétaro, Mexico, in San Antonio for the second time in less than a year as part of our growing student exchange program with the Consorcio de Instituciones Técnicas y Politécnicas (Technical and Polytechnic Institutions) in the State of Querétaro. A group of 16 students from various institutions participated in activities throughout the week that focused on entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership — engaging with local colleges and universities, industry partners, and city leaders while deepening their understanding of global competencies through real-world exposure. This international exposure of our students is a testament to the success of our program.
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Regional Collaborations
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By Alejandra Bueno and Reynaldo Cano Alejandra Bueno, Chief Programs Officer, Global Engagement & Learning at Alamo Colleges District, was invited to participate in the closing panel of the 2025 Potosi Industrial Exposition in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The panel addressed key topics for the regional integration of the Bajío region, highlighting collaborative strategies, productive vocations, technical education, investment attraction, and the role of internationalization in economic development. The panel also included David Aguilera – Secretary of Sustainable Economic Development of the State of Guanajuato, Esaú Garza de Vega – Secretary of Economic Development, Science, and Technology of the State of Aguascalientes, and Jesús Salvador González Martínez – Secretary of Economic Development of the State of San Luis Potosí. The shared vision between states and international actors like the Alamo Colleges District is a beacon of hope, opening up new opportunities to strengthen the Bajío region's talent, competitiveness, and connectivity with the world. All the panelists agreed that sustainable economic growth starts with talent formation—and that means deeper partnerships connecting education, global skills, industry, and government across our region.
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August 2025
Incoming International Students Welcomed at the Fall 2025 F-1 Compliance Seminar
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By Kaitlyn Davis The Office of International Programs welcomed 42 incoming F-1 international students, with our new cohort representing 16 countries. The fall F-1 Compliance Seminar was held on August 13, 2025, at the Nursing and Allied Health Building at San Antonio College. The seminar provided an opportunity to meet peers, learn more about how to maintain visa status, get involved in international programs activities, and hear from speakers from VIA Bus about the student U-PASS, Texas DMV regarding obtaining a driver’s license, and Alamo DPS to share on-campus safety protocols.
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Celebrating the Value of Collaboration with World Affairs Council of San Antonio
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By LaTanya Kurney Alamo Colleges District, in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, is pleased to host the 2025 Around the World with World Affairs Council of San Antonio event at the ACCESS campus. Around the World is an annual large-scale, multicultural celebration of culture and community showcasing the vibrant heritage of over 50 countries represented in San Antonio. This year’s event will be held on 13 September at 11:30 a.m. and, as in past years, is open to the public. Alamo Colleges District staff and students may attend the event free of charge when showing their Alamo Colleges ID. Around the World is an excellent networking opportunity for staff and students and will debut an International Student Lounge with opportunities for students to engage local diasporas, join the World Affairs Council, and meet representatives from our local sister universities. Registration is now open with World Affairs Council.
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Inaugural Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Design Training
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By Lindsey Kline The Alamo Colleges District provided its first completely designed and facilitated in-house Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) training in for ACD faculty and their international COIL teaching partners in August. Over the course of 4 weeks, faculty from San Antonio College and Northwest Vista College worked with faculty from India, South Africa, and Colombia to develop COIL modules that can be integrated into their existing courses in the 25-26 Academic Year. COIL is an integral part of the Alamo Colleges District’s comprehensive internationalization strategy and is an invaluable way for faculty to facilitate the development of global competencies in their students.
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July 2025
Building Opportunities for Alamo Colleges Student Around the World
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By Reynaldo Cano and Alejandra Bueno The Alamo Colleges District signed an international articulation agreement with Rennes School of Business in France on Friday, June 20, 2025. This partnership creates a new academic pathway for ACD students: after they complete their associate degree at Alamo Colleges, they can continue with one additional year at Rennes SB to earn a bachelor’s degree in areas such as international business, marketing, finance, and other business-related fields. Rennes SB, a globally recognized institution, is not just about prestige, but also about affordability. Its recognition by FAFSA in the U.S. makes it a powerful and cost-effective option for our students to complete their education abroad while accessing federal financial aid. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Chancellor, Dr. Mike Flores, for his visionary leadership, and to our esteemed partners at Rennes SB, including the Dean and CEO of the Rennes School of Business, Adilson Borges, PhD, HDR. Their commitment to student success across borders is truly inspiring. ACD is proud to continue expanding global learning opportunities that are both high-impact and accessible. |
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Alamo Colleges on the Global Workforce Stage
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By Reynaldo Cano and Alejandra Bueno Dr. Mike Flore represented Alamo Colleges at the Future Talent Council Summit, a three-day event often referred to as "the Davos for talent." This Summit is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together policy influencers, academics, and employers to drive development in the global talent agenda for the benefit of society. The Future Talent Council, a membership-based, invitation-only global organization, is a platform that engages society's foremost educational, political, and business leaders in collaboration on international, regional, and industry talent agendas for the future. This emphasis on collaboration makes us all feel included and part of a larger global community. Dr. Mike Flore, as a speaker/panelist for the Future Talent Council's Annual Summit in Stockholm, Sweden, played a crucial role in representing Alamo Colleges District. As an FTC member and part of the newly formed Center for Higher Education Transformation, he heralded ACD's work during the "The New Logic of Workforce Strategy" session on Day 1. He then closed out the Summit with a powerful message, "United for Tomorrow: Building and Guiding Human-First Futures Through Global Partnerships." Chancellor Mike Flores' contributions on a global scale about the importance of access to education and the power of learner-centered models position the Alamo College District community as feeling valued and integral to this international process. |
ACD OIP Hosts EducationUSA Advisors for a Symposium
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By Kaitlyn Davis and Patricia Ferguson Study San Antonio, a collaboration between the Alamo Colleges District, the City of San Antonio, and other local higher education institutions, welcomed an EducationUSA Delegation to San Antonio. The delegation consists of advisors from Cabo Verde, Eurasia, Hungary, Mauritius, Slovakia, and Trinidad and Tobago. On Sunday, June 1, the Office of International Programs hosted the EducationUSA Symposium, during which the six advisors presented data from their respective regions and profiles of prospective students. On Monday, June 2, the advisors toured San Antonio College, highlighting community programs at the Scobee Planetarium and resources for international students at the International Student Services office, the Center for English Language Learning, and the Empowerment Center. In addition, the delegation toured the Center for Health Professions at St. Philip’s College. Following the campus tours, the Office of International Programs team hosted a networking dinner for the advisors and the International Student Services team across the Colleges.
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Cementing ACD Role in International Academic Ties
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By Reynaldo Cano and Alejandra Bueno During the recent NAFSA: Association of International Educators annual global conference, which took place in San Diego, California, Alamo Colleges was invited to sit on a panel discussing International Academic partnerships. Attended by leaders, learners, and changemakers from 100+ nations, the conference serves as a forum to discuss timely issues in the international education space. This particular panel, titled “U.S.–Mexico: Enhancing Academic Ties,” highlighted Alamo Colleges’ cross-border work and our unwavering commitment to expanding access to global learning, inspiring us all to continue our efforts in this crucial area. Our panel," U.S.-Mexico: Enhancing Academic Ties," was a platform for robust discussions, given the current environment. The panel included partners from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico like Silvio Gonzalez, Mayra Vásquez Santos, and PIC AMERICAS AMPEI César Eduardo Gutiérrez Jurado. We all agreed to continue leading efforts to strengthen our bilateral collaborations, demonstrating our shared commitment to this ongoing work. |
International Recognition for an Innovative Program
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By Reynaldo Cano and Alejandra Bueno Alamo Colleges was honored to receive the Institute of International Education Award for Strategic Partnerships. This prestigious recognition, presented during the NAFSA: Association of International Educators Annual Conference in San Diego, celebrated our impactful collaboration with Universidad Tecmilenio and Methodist Healthcare System (MHS). The Nursing Pathway, a program that has opened international workforce opportunities for students and empowered them to begin new careers, recently celebrated the start dates of our pilot cohort. These students, who completed their journey and stepped into their new jobs, were instrumental in making this happen. We also recognize the key partners and contributors, including Victor Ortiz, Itzel Villarreal Maldonado, our dedicated Tecmilenio partners, Luke Dowden, Amber O., and Diana Rademaker. Special thanks are also due to our leadership, Mike Flores and Bruno Zepeda. Special recognition to Isabel Diaz Breuer, a member of the Office of International Programs, who led the day-to-day work to make this partnership a success, leading the IIE recognition and spotlighting its significance. |
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International Student Graduate Reception
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By Kaitlyn Davis and Patricia Ferguson The Office of International Programs hosted the International Graduate Reception on April 30, 2026, with approximately 100 guests, including faculty, staff, family, and students. The event was a testament to the collective efforts of our community in supporting our graduating international students and Alamo Global Student Distinction recipients, who were recognized for their involvement in internationalizing the Alamo Colleges. Keynote speakers were Professor Irene Young from St. Philip’s College and Bradley Titagwan, a graduating student from St. Philip’s College. Both shared the importance of global learning experiences to open people’s minds, build resilience, and empower them to create an impact in an interconnected world. The ceremony provides a culmination for students and families as they complete this chapter in their education journey.
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Transatlantic Culinary Partnership Celebrates Ten Years of Success
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By LaTanya Kurney The Transatlantic Culinary Partnership is an experiential exchange opportunity for students in the St. Philip’s College (SPC) Tourism, Hospitality and Culinary Arts (THCA) program. Fondly known as the “Paris Exchange,” this reciprocal program began in 2014 with a five-year implementation agreement with the Lycée Hôtelier Guillaume Tirel in Paris, France. In 2019, the agreement was renewed in-country for an additional five years. However, in the fall of 2024, SPC and Guillaume Tirel reached their collaborative ten-year milestone with an anniversary signing and celebration in Paris during the fall outbound program. The celebration continued in spring 2025 when SPC welcomed the Headmaster of Guillaume Tirel to San Antonio for the first time during the partnership. The Paris Exchange is one of the longest-running and most successful international programs within the Alamo Colleges District. The partners look mutually towards their continued success. |
International Articulation Opens Pathways for THCA Students
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By LaTanay Kurney Culminating from long-term discussions and strategizing, the Alamo Colleges District has entered the final stages of offering an international articulation for students to the Business and Hotel Management School (BHMS) in Lucerne, Switzerland. Through this pathway, students who receive an associate’s degree from the Tourism, Hospitality, and Culinary Arts (THCA) program at St. Philip’s College will have the opportunity to travel to Switzerland to continue their studies toward a dual bachelor’s degree as part of the BHMS Top Up program. The BHMS Top Up program offers a unique blend of academic excellence, practical experience through a paid internship in Switzerland, and a discounted tuition for students from community colleges. This program is a steppingstone towards a successful career in the global hospitality industry.
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April 2025
Building New Ties on historic Bridges
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By Reynaldo Cano and Alejandra Bueno In collaboration with the Mexican Consulate, Alejandra Bueno, Chief Programs Officer for Global Engagement &Learning, Traveled to San Luis Potosi, Mexico, to explore and assess institutional alignment, strategic fit, and collaborative opportunities. Hosted primarily by the Secretary of Economic Development (SLP SEDECO) for the State of San Luis Potosi, a curated agenda included potential academic partners as well as members of the private sector interested in workforce development collaboration. These companies include well-known names like General Motors (US HQ), Continental (German HQ), Grupo Acero del Norte (Mexico HQ), and L’Oréal (French HQ). The specific workforce needs and training gaps included technical English for supervisors and technicians, Specialized IT skills and certifications, leadership and customer service skills, and short-term upskilling modules. The following steps involve developing corporate training programs based on the short-term needs of the local industry. Followed by International student recruitment.
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Enriching the Learning Experience Through the England Study Abroad Program
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By Maria Rivera and Dr. Michele Maldonado Eight students from across the Alamo Colleges District will embark on a unique academic journey this summer as participants in the English and Education in England Faculty-Led Study Abroad Program from May 22 to June 6, 2025. Students engaged in intensive coursework and cultural immersion throughout the United Kingdom during the two-week program. Northeast Lakeview College Professor Angela Hager will lead instruction in Freshman Composition II (ENGL 1302) and British Literature (ENGL 2322), while Dr. Michele Maldonado will teach Introduction to the Teaching Profession (EDUC 1301) and Special Populations (EDUC 2301). A key component of Special Populations (EDUC 1301) includes a 16-contact hour field experience or participation in Junior Achievement in a P–12 classroom setting. This experiential requirement encourages students to analyze the culture of schools and classrooms through various perspectives—including language, gender, and socioeconomic diversity. The course content is aligned with state standards for pedagogy and professional responsibilities, providing future educators with a deeper understanding of educational systems and learner needs. The in-country itinerary includes two school site visits that further enrich the academic and cultural learning experience. These visits allow students to engage in cross-cultural comparisons of educational systems, offering valuable insights into the similarities and differences between U.S. and U.K. schooling practices. Student reflections highlight the program's impact. Annamaria shared, "Teaching for JA gave me confidence in my leadership skills and provided me with the opportunity to connect with elementary-aged students." Similarly, Deja noted, "It challenged me and helped me develop my organizational skills." Their testimonials reflect the personal and professional growth inspired by international teaching and mentorship experiences. Maria Rivera, International Programs Coordinator for Study Abroad, emphasized the value of these opportunities: "Study abroad experiences like this provide students with the opportunity to develop global competencies, strengthen leadership skills, and gain practical knowledge that applied to their future careers. Students broaden their worldviews and prepare to enter an increasingly interconnected and global workforce by learning in a new cultural context." |
Study Abroad Luncheon: Connecting Past & Future South Korea Scholars
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By Maria Rivera and Russell Wagner The Office of International Programs hosted a unique Study Abroad Luncheon, bringing together former study abroad students and new students preparing for their upcoming summer program. This event was a rare chance for prospective students to gain firsthand knowledge from those who had already lived and studied in South Korea. Former participants shared their insights on cultural adaptation, academic expectations, travel tips, and daily life, giving the new students a clearer picture of what to expect. The interactive Q&A session was a key part of the event, allowing attendees to ask questions about everything from budgeting to must-visit destinations. This session not only addressed their concerns but also built excitement for their upcoming journey. The luncheon featured a delicious spread of authentic Korean cuisine, giving attendees a taste of the food culture they will soon experience. Students enjoyed classic dishes such as Kimbap (a Korean version of sushi), kimchi, Mandu (Korean Dumplings), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). This culinary experience added to the excitement, allowing students to connect with Korean culture through its rich and flavorful food. More than just discussions, the luncheon was a platform for sharing practical advice. It fostered valuable peer connections, creating a support network among students preparing for this transformative experience. The engaging conversations and shared experiences made the event not just informative but also inspiring. This ensured that our future study abroad participants left feeling more prepared and confident about their upcoming adventure in South Korea. |
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Building New Ties on Historic Bridges
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By Reynaldo Cano Alamo Colleges led the academic exchange as part of the Al Otro Lado Del Espejo program. San Antonio's establishment as a community that dates back to the missionaries from conclaves in the City of Queretaro, cementing a bond that has been newly rediscovered. Today, Alamo Colleges joined community stakeholders in reestablishing these historic bonds through academic agreements to promote exchanges, a testament to the enduring cultural significance of the program. A delegation of ten students and two chaperones embarked on a transformative journey. They participated in training sessions, served as panelists, and enjoyed a tour of San Antonio, including cultural locations. The focus was to expose them to physical evidence of the bonds with their hometown of Queretaro by visiting Mission San Jose in San Antonio. The cutting-edge cybersecurity facilities at St Philips College. San Antonio Colleges through a team-building exercise at the Scobee Center. Palo Alto College's close ties with members of the local manufacturing community. Their visit culminated in a tour of the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, where members of the International Committee hosted the group. These students, having experienced the academic exchange firsthand, now carry the torch as unofficial ambassadors of the Alamo Colleges District. They are international advocates, ready to continue and promote exchange opportunities, thereby extending the program's reach and impact.
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COIL Continues to Expand
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By Reynaldo Cano As part of an incoming delegation from Queretaro for the Al Otro Lado del Espejo program, four professors came to better understand the COIL methodology (Collaborative Online International Learning) from our resident expert, Lindsey Kline, Ph.D. During their visit to San Antonio, they were actively engaged in discussions about the COIL methodology and interacted with Alamo Colleges District professors to get a firsthand explanation of the experience. By creating a solid foundation in person, the goal is to have some of the visiting professors undertake a COIL collaboration with professors from the Alamo Colleges District. |
The San Antonio Cultural and Art Scene Continues to Evolve
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By Reynaldo Cano In collaboration with Lionel and Kathy Sosa and Bank of America, Alamo Colleges District hosted an evening program to listen to students and artists discuss their firsthand experiences related to the student and art exchange as part of the Al Otro Lado Del Espejo. The panel of four students from Alamo Colleges and four from the Consortium of six universities in Queretaro, Mexico, explored, from their respective vantage points, the exchange experience. Through very endearing storytelling, the students articulated differences, similarities, and the important lessons they learned during their visits to each city, enlightening the audience with their experiences. The San Antonio Mexican American artists in the exhibit shared their insights, experiences, and surprises during a thoughtful 45-minute discussion. The 100-plus audience members were engaged in a robust discussion after the panel discussions with the panelists, further enriching the evening with their own perspectives.
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February 2025
Patricia Ferguson Appointed to the International Board of Directors for Partners of the Americas
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Patricia Ferguson, a valued member of the Office of International Program team, has been chosen to serve on the prestigious International Board of Directors for Partners of the Americas. This significant appointment is a testament to Patricia's wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership in the fields of international education and community development. The Board, comprising a diverse mix of volunteers, development professionals, governments, businesses, and higher education institutions, is entrusted with shaping the organization's policies, programs, and strategic direction. Patricia's selection is a clear affirmation of her steadfast commitment to the mission and values of Partners of the Americas.
This appointment also serves as a pivotal moment to revitalize the long-standing partnership between the Alamo Colleges District and Texas Partners of the Americas (TPOA). This collaboration has its roots in the visionary efforts of San Antonio College Distinguished Alumnus Dr. Joe W. Neal, who was instrumental in founding several international education organizations. Dr. Neal, whose legacy in international education is profound, established the International Office at the University of Texas, co-founded the Texas International Education Consortium (TIEC), and played a key role in forming TPOA. Under his leadership, TPOA flourished as a bridge between Texas and the Americas, fostering educational exchange and collaboration. Dr. Neal's efforts were supported by Dr. Eduardo Conrado, Director of International Programs at the Alamo Colleges District, who helped relocate TPOA leadership to San Antonio.
Patricia's new role is a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between the Alamo Colleges District and Partners of the Americas. This appointment will enhance our international education partnerships and open up new avenues for student mobility throughout the Americas. |
Lindsey Kline Complets Doctorial Defence
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Lindsey Kline, a member of the Office of International Programs team, has successfully completed her doctoral defense and will receive a dual-title Ph.D. in Higher Education and Comparative and International Education from Penn State University this spring.
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