Jackson State University’s International Programs Office hosted Marc Fallow, Chief of the Interpreter Assigning Unit from the Office of Language Services in the Bureau of Administration, U.S. Department of State June 26-27.
International Programs at JSU is a home to the International Visitors Center of Jackson, the only visitor center at a Historically Black College or University in the nation and the only one in the state of Mississippi. The center supports the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), which is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. The Office of Language Services provides necessary language support while hosting foreign delegations.
The Department of State’s Office of Language Services provides language support to the State Department, the White House and other federal agencies. The office facilitates communication with non-English speaking governments and people by providing high-level interpreting and translating support to the Office of the President, the Department of State, and other U.S. federal agencies.
“International Programs Office aims to strengthen ties with the Office of Language Services to expand internship and career opportunities for JSU students majoring in foreign languages and native foreign language speakers,” said Dr. Lokesh Shivakumaraiah, director of International Programs and Services.
Fallow began his career as consecutive interpreter in Spanish and later he worked as a program officer at Meridian International Center. Presently, he supervises a staff of eight employees who are in charge of assigning interpreters in 40 different languages. He reflects fondly of his work and said the most gratifying part of his work lies in meeting, interviewing, and testing prospective interpreters. He added that Office of Language Services must maintain robust rosters in all languages; therefore, his office is continually looking for new talent.
“IVLP exchange programs provide an opportunity to showcase Mississippi’s rich history, tradition and burgeoning opportunities to the world.” said Shirley Harrison, assistant director of IVCJ at International Programs Office.
For more information, please contact Dr. Shivakumaraiah or Ms. Harrison at 601-979-1600.