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A note on International Education Week from the University Committee on International Affairs chair

Tom Archibald
Tom Archibald, executive director of the Center for International Research, Education, and Development and chair of the University Committee on International Affairs

By Tom Archibald

Virginia Tech, as a global land-grant institution, is deeply committed to equipping our students with the international knowledge and experiences essential for their future. Our university understands that, in today’s world, fostering global awareness isn’t merely an advantage — it’s a necessity.

Throughout my career as a faculty member in the College of Agriculture and Life Science and, now, as executive director of the Center for International Research, Education, and Development (CIRED), I’ve witnessed firsthand how intercultural experiences can broaden perspectives, foster innovation, and create lasting positive change.

As we approach International Education Week, Virginia Tech stands ready to embrace this global celebration of cross-cultural learning and exchange. This annual event, jointly initiated by the U.S. Departments of State and Education, provides an opportunity to highlight the crucial role international education plays in fostering global understanding and preparing students for an interconnected world.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the synergy that emerges when we bring together diverse perspectives. By collaborating with colleges, institutes, departments, and other centers, we help identify areas where Virginia Tech’s expertise can make a real difference in the world. These partnerships are the lifeblood of our international efforts, fostering innovation and creating opportunities for our students and faculty to engage in high-impact global projects.

International Education Week exemplifies our dedication to this principle, offering a diverse array of events that showcase the richness of global cultures and the importance of international collaboration in addressing world challenges. As someone who has dedicated my life to this field, I can attest to the profound impact that international experiences have on students, faculty, and our broader community.

As we celebrate International Education Week, I invite each member of our community to participate in the diverse range of events we have planned. From cultural showcases to academic discussions, each event offers a unique opportunity to broaden our horizons and deepen our appreciation for the diverse world we share. In my experience, these interactions often spark new ideas, foster unexpected collaborations, and inspire innovative solutions to global challenges.

Tom Archibald is executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for International Education, Research, and Development, part of Outreach and International Affairs, and chair of the University Committee on International Affairs.