Paul Gleeson, the Consul General of Ireland, recently made a courtesy visit to Jackson State University to discuss ways of establishing partnerships between JSU and universities in Ireland.
Gleeson, who was in Jackson for the Celtic Festival on Sept. 6, requested the meeting with JSU. Among possible areas of collaboration discussed were study abroad programs for students, faculty exchanges, and collaboration in research.
While at JSU, Gleeson met with the Administrative Council of the College of Business to exchange views on how linkages can be established between the College of Business and business schools in Ireland. The department chairs and unit heads discussed achievements and activities within their departments and/or units and possible opportunities for student and faculty exchange programs, internships and placement.
The meeting with the College of Business was followed by another meeting with representatives from JSU’s Division of Academic Affairs, Division of Graduate Studies, and International Programs. Present at this meeting were Dr. Thomas Calhoun, associate vice president for Academic Affairs; Dr. Dorris Robinson-Gardner, dean of the Division of Graduate Studies; Dr. Robert Blaine, special assistant to the provost for cyberlearning; Dr. Jean-Claude Assad, interim dean, College of Business; Dr. Dal Didia, interim chair, Department of Economics, Finance and General Business; and Ms. Adrienne Graham director, International Students and Scholars Services.
“This was a great opportunity to discuss mutually beneficial opportunities for students and faculty at JSU with their counterparts in Irish universities,” said Calhoun. “Student study-abroad programs, faculty exchanges, and collaboration in research were issues that dominated the discussions.”
Calhoun said Gleeson assured him that he would work to link JSU with universities in Ireland.