International & Global Studies: Growth, Impact, and Innovation

1993

Brian Digre applies for an Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language (UISFL) Grant from the Department of Education

1994

Department of Education grant approved, UCC approves proposal for the International Studies major with African studies

1995-96

Elon’s first interdisciplinary major established

1995-2007

The International Studies program expands with additional regional studies grants from the Department of Education (Asia, Latin America, Middle East)

2005

International Studies requires a full semester study abroad and an extra semester of foreign language study

2011-12

Six International Studies graduates receive Fulbright Awards

2014

Safia Swimelar becomes Program Coordinator (F2014-Sp2023), with Associate Coordinators
Michael Matthews, Baris Kesgin, Andrea Sinn

2015-16

Curriculum revision
1) Renamed the major from International Studies (INT) to International and Global Studies (IGS)
2) Revised mission statement
3) Created four interdisciplinary themes for the “global studies” component of major
4) Increased world language requirement

2017-18

Developed IGS 250 Global Studies: Approaches and Perspectives

2020

COVID-19 presents a major challenge to the program; study abroad becomes impossible

2023

Program rebounding; Andrea Sinn elected Program Director (F2023 – Present) with Associate
Directors Pamela Winfield and Mussa Idris

 

Reflecting on the program’s 30th anniversary, it is remarkable to realize that my own journey here began nearly two decades ago.  I entered a space dedicated to bridging cultures and fostering deep regional understanding – a mission that feels more vital today than ever before. Over the years, I have seen our curriculum evolve alongside a changing world, yet the core spirit of the program remains rooted in curiosity and critical inquiry.

Beyond academic milestones, the true heart of this journey has been watching our students carry the program’s name across the globe and contribute to their communities in such meaningful and impactful ways. Their success is, and will always be, our proudest achievement. Celebrating this milestone is not just a look at thirty years of academic excellence, but a testament to the generations of students and colleagues who have made this program a vibrant hub for global engagement.

Dr. Shereen Elgamal, Assistant Teaching Professor of Arabic