The Strengthening of Collaborative Ties Continues:
Fairfield University Delegation visits Universidad Centroamericana (UCA)

Image: Fairfield students and staff in NicaraguaTranslated by Alejandro Martinez, Coordinator of International Education Services, from article originated from the Universidad Centroamericana entitled, "Lazos de colaboracion en constante fortalecimiento, Delegacion de Universidad de Fairfield visita la UCA" by Flor E. Rojas:

In March of 2004, UCA and Fairfield University signed a collaborative agreement. Since then both Jesuit institutions have worked together in diverse fields: field research in environmental sciences, support from Fairfield faculty at a graduate level, professional development for UCA faculty and student exchange.

Image: Fairfield students and staff in NicaraguaWithin the framework of the agreement, a Fairfield delegation visited UCA in May 2009. The delegation included:

  • Billy Weitzer, Executive Vice President
  • Fr. Jim Bowler, University Facilitator for Catholic and Jesuit Mission and Identity
  • Edna Wilson, Associate Vice President for Global Relations and Community Engagement, and Dean of University College
  • Janet Canepa, Director of Alumni Relations

"Our institutions have a 5-year-old relationship and we are here to appreciate the accomplishments obtained throughout that time. We are looking towards the future in order to find further project of mutual benefit," said Billy Weitzer, Executive Vice President of Fairfield University.

Image: Fairfield students and staff in NicaraguaEdna Wilson, Associate Vice President for Global Relations and Community Engagement, and Dean of University College, said that UCA exchange students have adapted very well to Fairfield University and have done great work. "They have helped us translating the materials that we have on our webpage and assist with the Fairfield students that are coming to Nicaragua," she commented.

The delegation visited different divisions of the University, such as the Center for the Research of Aquatic Ecosystems (CIDEA), the Center for Molecular Biology (CBM), the Institute of History of Nicaragua and Central America (IHNCA), the Institute for Social Work Juan XXIII and the School of Law. Moreover, they visited the Ayapal neighborhood in Managua, where Fairfield University's School of Nursing is conducting a public health project in cooperation with social work faculty and students at UCA. Moreover, the delegation visited Nitlapan to learn more about the work of the Charles F. Dolan School of Business students and faculty in information systems.