International Education Week

Proclamation
By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, the United States Department of State and Department of Education have declared November 16 through November 20, 2015 as International Education Week in observance of the many important contributions of international education to the nation; and

WHEREAS, providing future leaders of this state with the broadest possible education will significantly impact our national security, foreign policy, economic competitiveness and capacity for tolerance; and

WHEREAS, the State of Alabama recognizes that international education is a fundamental part of general and professional studies in our contemporary world; and

WHEREAS, increasingly complex international trade relations, the urgent needs of developing nations, concern for the preservation of our global ecology, and the constant goal of world peace require that today’s students be concerned with the world at large, appreciate and respect cultures and nations other than their own, and graduate with skills necessary to live and work effectively in an international context; and

WHEREAS, no student in the State of Alabama education system should be exempted from acquiring some sensitivity to the dynamic interaction of the many cultures and forces at work in our world society, so as to contribute affirmatively as citizens of a world-wide community; and

WHEREAS, opportunities abound in higher education which enhance the understanding of other cultures and nations and contribute constructively toward a better future throughout the world through curricula, research, faculty exchange, study abroad and the presence of international students/scholars on our campuses; and

WHEREAS, the State of Alabama is ideally suited to accomplish these objectives and takes pride in its strong international presence through research and academic programs throughout higher education across the State of Alabama; and

WHEREAS, the emphasis on international education in Alabama will strengthen global understanding and build a foundation for the future of our state:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim November 16 through 20, 2015 as

International Education Week

in the State of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 12th day of November 2015.

Robert Bentley
Governor