by Ava Swearingen, student writer
The United States has a rich history and culture, charged by powerful stories and influential people. Nowhere is this perhaps more evident than in the political heart of the country, Washington, D.C.
The Swaid Institute for International Education was established by and honors Dr. Swaid N. Swaid (‘73). Dr. Swaid was an international student himself, and the institute reflects his commitment to provide transformative education opportunities for international students on Harding’s campus.
One of the opportunities for students this semester was a spring break trip to Washington, D.C. Dr. David Collins, dean of international education, and Candice Moore, executive director of global engagement, were excited to be able to show a group of international students the nation’s capital. On March 20, under the leadership of Collins and Moore, 37 upperclassmen and graduate students representing 15 nations packed their bags and set out for the airport, abuzz with anticipation.
When they arrived in D.C., it was a quick hotel check-in, and then it was off to the races. Over the next several days, students visited cultural sites reflecting important moments in the 250-year history of the U.S. Each student was assigned a particular location on their itinerary to prepare a short presentation for. As they traveled around the nation’s capital, students had opportunities to teach each other a bit about the significance of the landmarks that often towered over them.
“They were not just observing; they were contributing, asking thoughtful questions and representing Harding at a high level,” Moore comments. “We saw growth in public speaking, stronger cross-cultural collaboration and a clearer connection between their academic paths and future goals.”
Some of the students' most anticipated spots were the White House, the U.S. Capitol building, and the Lincoln Memorial. Landmarks like this were notable to their education in U.S. History, and seeing them in person brought a tangible tether to stories that were previously confined to classrooms and textbooks.
Beyond educational expansion, international students were able to develop a deeper understanding of this country they call home for the moment. After a day spent visiting the Capitol Building and President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, information systems major Chibuike (Donald) Nwamere reflected on the magnitude of this trip.
“This trip was not just about seeing important places, but about understanding the stories, people and values that continue to shape the United States,” he said. “It challenged me to reflect on my own roles and inspired me to carry forward lessons of purpose, service and excellence.”
This is the work the Swaid Institute does: providing education while fueling transformation. As international students departed from Washington, D.C., they were left with a sense of inspiration. It followed them back to the campus that works to give them even more opportunities for understanding, unity and growth.
Information for 
