The "Year Of" Annual Country Study Program has been a ÈâÈ⴫ý and Global Education initiative for over 40 years. Throughout the past four decades, our faculty, staff, and students have experienced incredible opportunities through this program, immersing themselves in the extraordinary cultures, histories, and traditions of countries worldwide. Each year a specific country is selected as the centerpiece of this immersive study, with programs focused on the exploration of its distinct identity, offering the opportunity to gain a well-rounded understanding of its people, language, art, cuisine, and more. Through this cherished tradition, the university aims to have a lasting and significant impact on the diverse student body by: cultivating global consciousness, fostering cross-cultural exchanges, and nurturing a sense of interconnectedness beyond borders.
Please join us as we revisit previous "Year Of" countries of study and highlight a few events from each extraordinary year.
year of homePast Country Programs
Year of Russia (2016 - 2017)
Year of Russia
For the Year of Russia, the University hosted a series of guest speakers, conferences, art exhibits, and other cultural activities throughout the year designed to promote a deeper appreciation for and understanding of Russia and its people.
Events included a U.S. - Russia Relations in Global Context International Symposium, a two-week long film series, and a various topics to create introductions for diverse times in Russia's history.
learn moreYear of Portuguese Speaking World (2015 - 2016)
Year of Portuguese Speaking World
The Year of the Portuguese Speaking World hosted a series of events, speakers, conferences, and cultural activities throughout the year designed to promote a deeper appreciation for and understanding of the Portuguese speaking world. This "Year of..." event was unique in that it focused on nine countries on four continents - Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, and São Tomé and PrÃncipe.
The Portuguese Speaking World is a diverse region, with each country possessing a unique history, economy, political structure, and culture. Events included performances, food tasting, concerts, and demonstrations.
learn moreYear of the Arabian Peninsula (2014 - 2015)
Year of the Arabian Peninsula
The university hosted a series of events, lectures, conferences, and other activities throughout the year designed to promote a deeper appreciation for and understanding of the Arabian Peninsula.
The Year of the Arabian Peninsula was comprised of seven countries - Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Events included exhibits and performances, a film festival, conferences and more!
learn moreAdditional Past Countries