University News

School of Global Education and Outreach: A Worldwide Educational Focus

June 26, 2018

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MACOMB, IL – To promote the commitment of Western Illinois University to online and adult learning and the integration of campus internationalization, the School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach changed its name to better reflect and strengthen these areas. Effective July 1, WIU's School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach will be renamed the School of Global Education and Outreach (GEO).

According to Executive Director Jeff Hancks, Global Education and Outreach encompasses a much broader involvement with global learning and all things international including educational learning experiences to support the growth, development and the success of students of all ages.

GEO's mission is to prepare globally competent citizens, administer the General and Interdisciplinary Studies degree programs, advance the development of in-demand online academic degree programs, provide high-quality English language and cultural competency instruction, support the growth, development and success of students, promote the intercultural and educational exchange on campus and abroad and provide meaningful community service and educational experiences for youth and adults.

"The School of Global Education and Outreach brings the world to Western Illinois University and Western Illinois University to the world," Hancks added.

While Western Illinois University has been offering international opportunities on campus and beyond, as well as courses via distance learning for several decades, the University continues to expand its online offerings, as well as international study opportunities for domestic and foreign students.

"By adding more online courses and degree opportunities, as well as study abroad and other international education experiences, we are extending Western's reach around the globe," Hancks added. "It is important to accommodate the needs of all of our students, whether they are traditional students at our Macomb and Quad Cities campuses or taking classes in another state or nation."

Western's School of Global Education and Outreach will continue as a unit under the direction of the Provost and Academic Vice President.

"We're excited to expand upon our efforts to extend Western's educational opportunities beyond the state of Illinois and nation," said WIU Interim Provost Kathy Neumann. "We are further enhancing the institution's goals to prepare our graduates to be successful professionals in a global world."

For more information about global education and online learning at Western Illinois University, contact Hancks at (309) 298-1929 or JL-Hancks@wiu.edu.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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