HU enhances study abroad programs with distinguished faculty fellowship, scholarships

April 12, 2018 | International Programs |

Harding University announces its office of international programs has made two significant enhancements to its offerings: adding a distinguished faculty fellowship and new program-specific scholarships. Funded through donations, the enhancements provide increased opportunities for both students and faculty members to benefit from the University’s extensive study abroad programs. The initial funding supports the fellowship and scholarships during the 2018-19 school year.

The distinguished faculty fellowship honors current faculty who have contributed time, resources and curricular development to the semester-long international programs. The University named the first distinguished fellow as Dr. Rebecca Weaver, dean of the College of Allied Health.

“Dr. Weaver has supported our international programs in every way imaginable,” said Jeff Hopper, dean of international programs. “She has generously lent us her time, teaching, faculty and staff for more than two decades.”

The designation is accompanied by a discretionary stipend for the recipient’s college or academic department and funds a visit to an international program location of their choice during the school year to deliver a series of lectures on the value of studying abroad.

The bulk of the new program funds are allocated for supplemental scholarships to enable more students to participate in the University’s seven international studies experiences. The funds will be awarded by a financial advisor based solely on student need.

“I hope that 30 or more additional students a year will be able to study abroad because of these scholarships,” Hopper said. “We believe in the importance of a global education and are excited that more students will now have the opportunity to experience Harding’s international programs.”

Nearly 40 percent of students participate in an international studies experience during their time at the University.

The fellowship and scholarships were made possible through the generosity of several key donors including significant contributions from Kevin and Laura Uebelein, Michael and Marilyn McGuire, Nancy O’Brien, and Fred and Alice Jewell. The first fundraising cycle was completed in December 2017 and will continue on an ongoing basis to ensure funding for future years.

Harding offers semester-long study abroad programs in Australasia, Chile, England, Greece, France, Italy and Zambia as well as numerous short-term study abroad opportunities.

For more information about Harding’s international programs, visit www.harding.edu/international or call 501-279-4529.