Jennings at the equator in Ecuador (2022)
The Center for Global Engagement at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is excited to announce the establishment of the Faculty Director for Global Learning and Student Impact. This new position marks a significant step towards reinforcing the university’s dedication to developing and supporting a university culture in which global engagement is prioritized and encouraged.
CGE is pleased to introduce Will Jennings, Distinguished Lecturer in the Department of Political Science and inaugural Faculty Director for Global Learning and Student Impact. With a wealth of expertise in international partnerships, study abroad programming, international research and teaching, Jennings brings a passion for international education that will propel UT’s global engagement efforts. In this new capacity, Jennings will collaborate extensively with academic departments, administrative units and international partners to conceptualize and implement innovative programs.
Responsibilities of the Faculty Director encompass the following key items.
Enhanced curriculum: partnering with faculty members to integrate global perspectives into their curriculum, fostering international experiential learning opportunities aimed at educating students to transcend national and cultural boundaries. Through UT’s Collaborative Online International Learning initiative and Vol EDGE Program, the position aims to facilitate faculty teaching opportunities and engagement.
Holistic student growth and global collaborations: designing initiatives that foster personal development, leadership and intercultural competence among students. The director plans to expand opportunities for UT students through enhanced partnerships with peer universities worldwide and through the growth of global programming opportunities available to students on campus.
Community involvement: engaging with local and global communities to establish mutually beneficial projects and partnerships. Efforts will include showcasing the State of Tennessee’s links with the world, highlighting how globally astute UT graduates can facilitate the state’s efforts to attract inbound foreign direct investment that will make life and lives better for all Tennesseans.
These initiatives will empower students and faculty with the proficiencies, insights and connections essential for thriving in a globally interconnected society.
The appointment of Jennings in this new role signifies a pivotal stride towards realizing UT’s mission of preparing students to be responsible, culturally intelligent global citizens. His appointment will catalyze the ongoing advancement of UT’s global engagement initiatives.
Read more about Jennings’ background on the Center for Global Engagement directors page here.
CONTACT:
Jason Moody (865-974-5752, jmoody9@utk.edu)