Greetings from the Rinker Center for Global Affairs! As the new Executive Director, I am thrilled to join this dynamic team, who are committed to advancing global education at Ball State University. It is an honor to join such a well-established Center and institution which has long been at the forefront of education, cross-cultural understanding, and civic engagement.
As I step into this role, I am deeply inspired by the Center’s rich history in supporting international students, delivering innovative study abroad opportunities, and promoting the Ball State brand through partnerships with institutions around the globe. The Rinker Center mission is to connect Ball State University with the world through innovative global education opportunities. We foster collaborative and mutually beneficial relationships across campus and the globe and strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for our diverse global community.
In the coming months, the Rinker Center team will focus on several key areas to move our vision forward in creating accessible and diverse global education opportunities for every member of the Ball State University community.
- Establishing a “One Rinker” Identity: Each of the functional areas of the Rinker Center, international student success, study abroad, the Intensive English Institute, and global partnerships, have held their own identity at Ball State for many years. With a common purpose, the Rinker Center can have a more intentional impact and achieve our goal of being the designated hub for global education at Ball State University.
- Strengthening Partnerships: We will continue to build and expand our network of collaborators across campus. There are exciting projects in the works related to study abroad, international student success, and supporting the integration of global education into the Ball State curriculum. All of which require sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships across campus.
- Promoting Global Education and Outreach: Global education is a mechanism for a pathway to purpose for the Cardinal community. As the hub for global education at Ball State, our team will be out and about on campus, and in the wider Muncie community, highlighting the value of global education. To that end, I invite all of you to join us for the first ever International Education Week, November 18-22 for campus wide global education events, celebrations of global members of our community, and reflection on importance of practicing cultural humility to bring people together in peace and harmony.
- Advancing Equity and Inclusivity: We are dedicated to ensuring that our work in global education is accessible, reflects and promotes equity, and is inclusive. Our programs and activities will strive to be designed with a focus on voices and communities of all backgrounds and perspectives.
I look forward to working with the Rinker Center team and the Ball State University community as we embark on this exciting chapter. In the coming months, I will welcome your insights and perspectives as they are invaluable to the success of our initiatives. Thank you for your interest in the Rinker Center for Global Affairs. I am enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and am eager to engage with you as we advance our mission.
In Solidarity,
Mandy Brookins
Executive Director of the Rinker Center for Global Affairs