October 21-23, University of North Texas, Denton

This October, Utrecht Network President Sabine Pendl participated in the MAUI Fall 2024 Conference at the University of North Texas, Denton, from October 21-23.
This annual event gathered Senior International Officers, Directors of Study Abroad, and Global Partnerships leaders from Mid America Universities International (MAUI) member institutions.
Together, attendees discussed the latest trends in global education, reinforcing the shared mission of expanding international study opportunities for students.

The Journey Begins: 1993–1994

The partnership between MAUI and the Utrecht Network originated in 1993, born from an encounter between Jeroen Torenbeek (Utrecht Network) and Charles “Chuck” Klasek of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC). During that period, international offices were highly motivated to create
cross-continental student exchanges, with available funding from the European Commission and the U.S. Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE). Seizing this opportunity, Utrecht University and SIUC collaborated on an exchange program proposal, supported by enthusiasm from institutions across both consortia.

In January 1994, the first Utrecht Network delegation, including Jeroen Torenbeek and Bettina Nelemans from Utrecht, Christian Civardi from Strasbourg, and Patricia de Clopper from Antwerp, embarked on a memorable visit to several MAUI institutions.
A journey full of challenges—from nearly impassable snow-covered roads to unexpected surprises in hotel rooms—marked the start of a collaboration that would thrive for three decades.

The Impact of a Lasting Collaboration

Since its inception, this MAUI-Utrecht Network partnership has facilitated countless transatlantic exchanges, enabling students from Europe and the U.S. to experience life-changing academic and cultural adventures.

The sustained success of this partnership underscores a shared commitment to global education and student mobility, extending the reach of both consortia to offer a unique, diverse educational experience.

MAUI Fall 2024 Conference Highlights

The MAUI Fall 2024 Conference continues this tradition of collaboration, addressing essential topics in study abroad, global partnerships, and campus internationalization. This year’s discussions emphasized innovations in student mobility programs, strategies for enhancing cross-cultural competencies, and pathways to deepen ties between MAUI and the Utrecht Network institutions.

As we celebrate 30 years of transatlantic collaboration, we look forward to a future of continued cooperation and shared success.
Here’s to another 30 years of impactful international education and cultural exchange!

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