Oklahoma State University School of International Studies: A History of Leadership & Learning

Oklahoma A & M President Henry Garland Bennett made special trips to countries in South America, Europe, the Near East, northern Africa and the Far East. Those early encounters led to over half a century of direct university involvement in international education and outreach that included administration, faculty and students. Fifteen years ago, that international involvement found academic and practical application through the founding of the School of International Studies at Oklahoma State University.The uniqueness of the School of International Studies at OSU is the combination of disciplines of academic study with international experiences. Many schools may offer the opportunity for some international experience in travel and short-term study. But few schools offer the opportunity for an accredited program of international study on a master's degree level. OSU's history of international involvement is presented along with the creation and development of the School of International Studies. It is important to look beyond the factual data and historical information to see the real impact on the lives of people. Many stories are presented of real people who have experienced the OSU international studies programs and are making an impact on a global level.The three sections of this book are important in an understanding of the OSU School of International Studies. Legacy and Leadership are important because of the foundational standard laid by dedicated people with vision far beyond their immediate activities. Leading and Learning are also important because of the ongoing availability of committed leaders among the faculty and administration of OSU. Learning and Looking are vitally important because of the goals, measurement and direction of academically-oriented programs. The three sections come together in a basic understanding of what the OSU School of International Studies encompasses.