A global lab on diversity
Monday, March 1, 2010
*Msgr. Franklyn Casale
As a parent, business professional or educator, you probably know that the college a student chooses will contribute to his or her ability to lead in life or make a difference in the community he or she chooses to serve. That is why I constantly encourage parents to point out the unique experience that is to be found at a small Catholic university.
A global laboratory for diversity does not just mean having a multicultural student force from over 45 countries, which is characteristic of St. Thomas University. Forty-three percent of students enrolled in Florida’s independent colleges and universities – St. Thomas among them – are minorities, with thousands of south Florida Catholics included. An institution permeated with true diversity enriches the educational experience by bringing the student closer to other backgrounds, dialogues, perspectives and cultural heritages. In today’s global economy, that is a winning strategy.
Youngsters with dreams to change society are often inspired by faculty who act as role models. At St. Thomas, we have plenty of those:
- Dr. Jeffery Plunkett, with Research Assistant Professor Dr. Alexis Papanes-Carrillo and six undergraduate biology students, are studying the possibility of finding cells that regenerate after spinal cord injury.
- Faculty, staff and students are joining forces in the development of long-term sustainability projects to help Haiti make a viable comeback.
- From Hong Kong symposia to chairing International Law Association meetings in the European Union, St. Thomas’ Dr. Siegfried Wiessner has led in research, dialogue and policy formulation for non-governmental organizations in global advocacy for indigenous peoples.
- A St. Thomas alumnus, Miguel Diaz, class of 1988, is the new U.S. ambassador to the Vatican.
We also have specializations in intercultural human rights, internship opportunities that include Florida’s Supreme Court and the United Nations, immigrant advocacy initiatives and the Human Rights Institute — all examples of the values and social justice training offered by faith-based higher education.
Most recently, a delegation of government and non-governmental organizations operating in Moldova gathered with St. Thomas students on campus to discuss the fight against modern day slavery. Moldovan women are often victims of trafficking for forced labor in other European countries, something that prompted our students to conduct research and reach out to the blogosphere to find opportunities for action under the leadership of Professor Roza Pati.
What constitutes a Catholic university education is more than a career path. It is a multi-faceted experience that touches other people’s lives while developing leadership skills, courage, ethics and compassion. We are thankful for a renowned faculty that acts consistent with the Gospels, drives students’ political and social responsibility, and facilitates multicultural dialogue.
Msgr. Franklyn M. Casale
President, St. Thomas University
