Impact Stories
Nearly two decades ago, Dr. Jochen Fried proposed to bring American undergraduates to Austria, mostly, but not exclusively, from community colleges and Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCUs) to address issues such as the dilemmas of diversity in our society, problems relating to climate change and other environmental issues, and matters of class, status, power and politics, and also to compare and contrast what we do in the United States with what goes on in other countries. It was an enormous challenge. Undaunted, Jochen and his colleagues, Astrid Schroeder and David Goldman, put their shoulders to the wheel and gave ample credence to the expression “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way.”
Participating in the Global Citizenship Alliance seminar profoundly shaped my teaching and personal growth. The experience enriched my Environmental Science courses with global perspectives and innovative methods while inspiring me to embrace my role as a “Citizen of Earth.” Even after retiring in 2019, the lessons and connections from the GCA continue to influence my commitment to global citizenship and interconnectedness.
I participated in a session of the Salzburg Global Seminar through San José State University, in what was then the SJSU Salzburg Scholars Program. Initially, I admit I had some skepticism and cynicism about what the experience may be like, but it truly transformed my life and my worldview. Upon departure, I had just completed my first year of graduate study in the Art History and Visual Culture program at San José State.
In 2010 as a Kingsborough Community College participant, I could not fathom the possibilities that would have unfolded as a result of the Global Citizenship Program. Having participated in my high school’s student exchange program, the GCP was the first time I was challenged to think about global issues in a way that led me to want to be a part of its solutions.
This talk by Lavar was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community:
It is difficult to describe the impact the Global Citizenship Program had on my life in a few short paragraphs, as it was one of the best, most influential experiences I have ever known. My GCP experience continues to motivate me and remind me of my responsibility as a global citizen: a responsibility to care about the world and to do my part promoting positive change and humanism.
During my time as Lead Faculty Advisor at the Global Citizenship Alliance seminars, I gained invaluable insights into global citizenship, teaching, and the importance of diverse perspectives. The experience profoundly shaped my career, from integrating innovative methods like mapology into my curriculum to fostering critical thinking among students. Personally, it transformed my understanding of identity and interconnectedness, inspiring me to embrace global citizenship and advocate for systemic change. This journey not only enriched my teaching but also deepened my commitment to building bridges across cultures and perspectives.
At the Global Citizenship Alliance seminar, I confronted the limitations of my ethnocentric education and explored my multicultural identity. Drawing a world map from memory and learning about global narratives challenged my perspective and inspired me to embrace storytelling as a tool for amplifying marginalized voices. This experience marked the beginning of my journey as a global citizen, helping me reclaim my identity and shape my commitment to bridging gaps in understanding.