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VWU and Lakeland University announce establishment of the Jane P. Batten and David R. Black School for International Studies
The presidents of Virginia Wesleyan University and Lakeland University (WI) have jointly announced the establishment of the Jane P. Batten and David R. Black School for International Studies, to be based at both universities’ collaborative campus with Lakeland University Japan (LUJ).
At a luncheon hosted by the LU Board of Trustees in Sheboygan, VWU President Scott D. Miller and LU President Beth Borgen, announced the initiative which aims to advance global engagement opportunities for Virginia Wesleyan University, Lakeland University (WI), and the LUJ/VWU Global Campus collaborative.
Namesakes Jane Batten and David Black were in attendance at the luncheon.
Chartered in 1990 as LUJ, the Tokyo campus has long been a beacon of cross-cultural understanding, critical thinking, and strategic action in Tokyo, the world's largest and safest city. This prestigious institution enrolls students committed to making a positive impact in a global economy fraught with geopolitical tensions, climate degradation, and rapid technological advancements. The Batten & Black School will embody the region's esteemed values of civility and teamwork, reflecting the collaborative spirit at its foundation.
In 2020, Virginia Wesleyan University Global Campus began a collaborative relationship with LUJ, significantly expanding opportunities for Batten & Black students. Through a concurrent enrollment agreement between LU and VWU, students at the Batten & Black School can access unique opportunities across all three campuses, unmatched by other universities.
“This partnership is especially beneficial for students from VWU's elite Batten Honors College,” said Dr. Miller, “offering them enriching study abroad experiences.” Similarly, Batten & Black students in Japan can engage in coursework on the VWU main campus in Virginia Beach without additional tuition costs.
Students can pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from LUJ or venture to the United States for a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Wesleyan University on the East Coast or from Lakeland University in the Midwest. This global educational journey is further enhanced by internship opportunities at the parent campuses in Wisconsin and Virginia, bridging academic theory and professional practice.
The Batten & Black School is committed to practical, real-world experience, allowing most students to complete short-term studies in the U.S. at no additional tuition cost. This immersive experience is enriched by a diverse faculty and student body from around the globe, creating a dynamic learning environment. Those who meet the requirements will earn the transcript designation of Batten & Black School of International Studies Fellow.
“The Batten & Black School for International Studies at LUJ is a global platform for aspiring change-makers, not just an academic institution,” said Dr. Miller. “Since 2020, with our strengthened partnerships and expanded opportunities, we are uniquely positioned to develop leaders equipped with the intelligence, empathy, and strategic vision needed to address the world’s most pressing challenges.”
Mrs. Batten is a long time Trustee of Virginia Wesleyan University and the founder of the elite VWU Batten Honors College in 2017. With a mission focusing on environmental stewardship, and global and civic engagement, Batten, Black, and Miller forged the initial LUJ/VWU Global Campus initiative in 2020 to expand opportunities for BHC scholars.
Dr. Black twice served as President of Lakeland University – from 1989 until 1997 and again from 2018 until 2021. For 15 years he was President of Eastern University. Since 2015, he has served as Executive-in-Residence at VWU.
The Batten & Black School of International Studies at LUJ is a function of VWU Global Campus. LUJ is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in the United States. VWU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC). All programs at the Tokyo campus are accredited by HLC.
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Disclaimer:
This article originally appeared on Virginia Wesleyan University and has been reposted here with permission. All rights to the content belong to Virginia Wesleyan University. For more information, please visit their website at https://www.vwu.edu/.
