Global Studies Institute Established By SJSU

Said Goodman, "San José State University serves the Silicon Valley, a region whose needs are distinctly global in nature. A globally-oriented, quality liberal arts education, combined with highly professional degree programs, will boost the chances for graduates to succeed in the world of the 21st century."

The institute will be directed by Michael Conniff, whose long career in international education includes service as a Peace Corps volunteer, a foreign aid specialist, Fulbright scholar and consultant. At Auburn University, in Alabama, and the University of South Florida, Conniff developed new curricula and won grants and contracts to support overseas programs. Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, Conniff has published a number of books about Latin America.

Joseph Olander will serve as senior fellow for the GSI. Prior to SJSU, Olander worked in higher education in Japan, China and Australia, and has lectured and consulted throughout the Pacific Basin. He chaired the board of directors of Global Education Services and presided over two private international universities in the United States, a private K-university school in China, and The Evergreen State College in Washington. He also served as executive vice president of Florida International University and vice president of academic affairs at the University of Texas at El Paso. A member of the Education Council of the United States Olympic Committee for the past eight years, Olander has authored, co-authored, and edited 48 books.

"The Global Studies Institute will build on SJSU's competitive advantages and craft infrastructures through which the curricula and personnel will mesh more closely with the community it serves," said Conniff.

Contacts: Nancy L. Stake or Ron Bottini at 408-924-1166