Featured Stories
University of Arkansas: Grad Student Gabby Reina Earns Recognition for Advancing Medical Robotics and Maternal Safety
FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas, Oct. 14 -- The University of Arkansas issued the following news:
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Grad Student Gabby Reina Earns Recognition for Advancing Medical Robotics and Maternal Safety
Oct. 13, 2026
Gabriella Reina, a mechanical engineering student in the U of A's College of Engineering and graduate student researcher at the U of A's Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I(3)R), is making significant contributions to the future of healthcare through her groundbreaking research in medical robotics and maternal health.
Reina's award-winning research focuses on developing advanced
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FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas, Oct. 14 -- The University of Arkansas issued the following news:
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Grad Student Gabby Reina Earns Recognition for Advancing Medical Robotics and Maternal Safety
Oct. 13, 2026
Gabriella Reina, a mechanical engineering student in the U of A's College of Engineering and graduate student researcher at the U of A's Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I(3)R), is making significant contributions to the future of healthcare through her groundbreaking research in medical robotics and maternal health.
Reina's award-winning research focuses on developing advancedrobotic tools for orthopedic surgery that improve surgical precision while making procedures less invasive. Her work earned the Computer-Aided Product and Process Development (CAPPD) Award at the 2026 ASME IDETC-CIE Conference.
Working alongside researchers Mehran Armand, professor of mechanical engineering; Joshua Liu, robotics research engineer; and Justin Ma, graduate researcher from John Hopkins University, Reina's research addresses a major challenge in medical robotics by developing systems that allow surgical tools to remain sterile while enabling surgeons to quickly swap instruments during procedures. This advancement could help make minimally invasive robotic surgery more practical and accessible for patients.
"Gabby is an outstanding graduate student who exemplifies academic excellence and early research initiatives. Her remarkable first-year achievements include winning a poster award for her presentation at the ASME IDETC conference and submitting an article for publication in the SPIE proceedings based on her research," Armand said.
In addition to her award-winning work at I(3)R, Reina was selected for the highly competitive National Institutes of Health (NIH) Graduate Partnerships Program Predoctoral Fellowship, receiving a stipend, health insurance and a relocation benefit through the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).
"Gabby was a stellar undergraduate student leader, so it is no surprise that she continues to excel in her graduate studies," said Steve Tung, Mechanical Engineering Department head. "These prestigious research honors further demonstrate her commitment to scholarly excellence, and we are incredibly proud to count her among our alumni."
Under the mentorship of Dr. Amir Gandjbakhche, senior investigator and chief of the section on translational biophotonics at NIH, Reina will conduct research focused on fetal health monitoring and maternal care.
Reina's NIH research centers on developing minimally invasive intrauterine tools capable of monitoring fetal oxygenation levels during labor. The goal of the project is to provide physicians with more accurate, real-time information during deliveries, improving outcomes for both mothers and babies while helping reduce medically unnecessary emergency cesarean sections.
"For me, engineering is about solving problems that genuinely improve human wellbeing and clinical outcomes," Reina said. "As a woman in engineering, I have a strong personal interest in pushing research forward in women's health. Historically, this field has been significantly underfunded and underserved. I want my work to help fill those gaps, bringing better technology, safety and accessibility to an area that needs a lot more attention."
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About the College of Engineering: The University of Arkansas College of Engineering is the state's largest engineering school, enrolling 4,701 students, including 3,608 undergraduate students and 1,093 graduate students. The college has more than 150 faculty and researchers and nearly 200 staff. The college ranked 65th among public institutions in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Engineering Schools rankings and had $66.6 million in new research awards in fiscal year 2026. Its strategic plan, Vision 2035, will dramatically increase the state's engineering graduates by 2035, an outcome that will add $3.9 billion annually to Arkansas' economy.
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Original text here: https://news.uark.edu/articles/83012/grad-student-gabby-reina-earns-recognition-for-advancing-medical-robotics-and-maternal-safety
NJIT Study Finds Overlooked 'Forever Chemicals' Widespread in New Jersey Tap Water and Bottled Beverages
NEWARK, New Jersey, Oct. 14 (TNSjou) -- The New Jersey Institute of Technology issued the following news:
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NJIT Study Finds Overlooked 'Forever Chemicals' Widespread in New Jersey Tap Water and Bottled Beverages
October 13, 2026
Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) have found that a largely overlooked class of "forever chemicals" is widespread in New Jersey drinking water and commercially available bottled beverages, raising new questions about how these persistent contaminants are monitored and potentially introduced into everyday products.
In what researchers describe
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NEWARK, New Jersey, Oct. 14 (TNSjou) -- The New Jersey Institute of Technology issued the following news:
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NJIT Study Finds Overlooked 'Forever Chemicals' Widespread in New Jersey Tap Water and Bottled Beverages
October 13, 2026
Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) have found that a largely overlooked class of "forever chemicals" is widespread in New Jersey drinking water and commercially available bottled beverages, raising new questions about how these persistent contaminants are monitored and potentially introduced into everyday products.
In what researchers describeas the first statewide U.S. monitoring study of ultra-short-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the NJIT team detected trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in more than 91% of tap-water samples collected across all 21 New Jersey counties and nearly 80% of bottled beverages tested. The study also revealed substantially higher concentrations in certain sports drinks and electrolyte waters than in plain bottled water, suggesting that ingredients or manufacturing processes may contribute to contamination beyond the original water source.
The findings, published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, highlight a significant gap in conventional PFAS monitoring. While chemicals such as PFOA and PFOS have received widespread regulatory attention by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, ultra-short-chain PFAS have largely escaped routine testing because their small molecular size and chemical properties make them difficult to detect using established methods.
"Most people have heard of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) because they have been the focus of regulations and water testing for years. TFA is different," said Siwei Gu, a postdoctoral researcher in NJIT's Emerging Contaminants Research Laboratory and lead author of the study. "It is much smaller in molecular size, highly soluble in water, and does not bind strongly to many filter materials that work well for capturing traditional PFAS."
To investigate these often-overlooked compounds, researchers analyzed 113 samples, including 70 tap-water samples from across New Jersey and 43 commercially available bottled beverages. Using a specialized laboratory method, they screened for five ultra-short-chain PFAS that can be difficult to measure through conventional testing procedures.
TFA was by far the most frequently detected compound, appearing in 64 of 70 tap-water samples and 34 of 43 bottled beverages. Although concentrations varied geographically, at least one tap-water sample from every New Jersey county contained detectable TFA. The study found a median concentration of 352 nanograms per liter among tap-water samples with detectable TFA, with higher county averages observed in several northern and northeastern counties, such as Essex, Hudson and Bergen.
"We anticipated finding trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in drinking water, as previous studies in Europe had reported its widespread occurrence," said Arjun Venkatesan, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at NJIT and director of the Emerging Contaminants Research Laboratory. "However, what surprised us was how frequently it was detected, occurring in 64 of the 70 tap water samples collected across New Jersey and 34 of the 43 bottled beverages analyzed."
Bottled Beverages Reveal Unexpected Differences
One of the study's most notable findings involved the considerable differences between plain bottled water and beverages containing added ingredients.
Among the 43 bottled beverages tested, the 12 formulated beverages had an average TFA concentration approximately 52 times higher than the 31 bottled waters. Concentrations in some electrolyte waters and sports drinks were particularly elevated, with the highest measurement reaching 94,100 nanograms per liter. By comparison, the highest TFA concentration detected in New Jersey tap water was 1,360 nanograms per liter.
Researchers have not determined why some formulated beverages contained substantially higher concentrations. Unlike plain bottled water, these products may include sweeteners, flavorings, electrolytes and other additives that could introduce additional sources of TFA.
"One possible explanation is that ingredients used in these beverages or certain manufacturing processes may be contributing to the elevated TFA concentrations," Gu said. "However, we did not analyze individual ingredients or investigate the manufacturing processes, so we cannot definitively identify the sources of TFA in these products."
TFA can enter the environment through multiple pathways, including the breakdown of certain fluorinated refrigerants, pesticides and other chemicals. It can subsequently be transported through precipitation into surface water and drinking-water sources. Its persistence and high mobility also make it challenging to remove through conventional water treatment.
The researchers emphasize that the study represents an initial snapshot of contamination rather than a comprehensive assessment of New Jersey's drinking-water systems. Additional sampling will be needed to determine how concentrations vary over time and to identify the sources responsible for geographic differences.
What the Findings Mean for Water Safety
Although the findings demonstrate widespread exposure potential, researchers caution that detecting TFA does not necessarily establish an immediate health risk. Scientific understanding of the compound's long-term effects in humans remains limited, even as some toxicological studies have raised concerns about potential developmental and reproductive effects.
"I think it is important for consumers to understand that detecting a chemical in drinking water or beverages does not necessarily mean there is an immediate health risk," Venkatesan said. "The potential health implications depend on the concentration, frequency of exposure, and how much of the chemical is consumed over time."
The study also points to challenges facing water utilities and regulators. Conventional PFAS treatment technologies, including granular activated carbon and ion-exchange resins, are generally less effective at capturing TFA than many longer-chain PFAS compounds. Specialized testing methods are also needed to reliably measure these smaller contaminants.
Researchers say expanding monitoring efforts will be essential to understanding the extent of contamination and determining whether additional treatment measures are warranted.
At NJIT, the Emerging Contaminants Research Laboratory is already investigating technologies designed to improve PFAS removal, including pretreatment methods that enhance the ability of activated carbon to capture difficult-to-remove PFAS.
The team plans to expand monitoring beyond New Jersey, investigate potential sources of TFA and examine how concentrations vary across drinking-water supplies and treatment systems. Ultimately, the researchers hope to connect improved detection with more effective, affordable technologies that utilities can use to address emerging contaminants.
The study, "Occurrence of Ultra-Short Chain PFASs in Bottled Beverages and New Jersey Tap Water," was authored by Siwei Gu, Santhoshi Chitthaluri, Ebenezer Etsiwah, Bishnu Pandey and Arjun K. Venkatesan. The research was supported in part by a faculty start-up grant from NJIT.
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Original text here: https://news.njit.edu/njit-study-finds-overlooked-forever-chemicals-widespread-new-jersey-tap-water-and-bottled-beverages
Lights, camera, innovation: Curtin's new virtual studio sets the scene for future storytellers
PERTH, Australia, Oct. 14 -- Curtin University posted the following news release:
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Lights, camera, innovation: Curtin's new virtual studio sets the scene for future storytellers
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A giant floor-to-wall LED screen capable of producing visual effects, animation and extended reality technologies has been unveiled by Curtin University to help students develop the skills increasingly sought by the global creative sector.
The new Virtual Production Studio and Digital Creative Industries facility - featuring an eight-metre by eight-metre LED space - gives the filmmakers of tomorrow hands-on
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PERTH, Australia, Oct. 14 -- Curtin University posted the following news release:
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Lights, camera, innovation: Curtin's new virtual studio sets the scene for future storytellers
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A giant floor-to-wall LED screen capable of producing visual effects, animation and extended reality technologies has been unveiled by Curtin University to help students develop the skills increasingly sought by the global creative sector.
The new Virtual Production Studio and Digital Creative Industries facility - featuring an eight-metre by eight-metre LED space - gives the filmmakers of tomorrow hands-onexperience with the technologies currently used in screen productions around the world.
The new facility is designed to support teaching, research and industry engagement across different creative fields by giving students and industry partners access to the same technologies transforming industries worldwide.
This includes the wall and floor-mounted LED space, known as 'volume', which enables performers to appear to be inside realistic digital environments, rather than needing to film on location.
It is the first back and floor LED volume in Western Australia configured to industry standards, thanks to the support of leading industry partners who aligned Curtin's curriculum with the industry's future needs.
Curtin's Faculty of Humanities Dean of Learning Futures Jonathan Pillai said the opportunities created by the facility extended far beyond a single technology or production technique.
"This brings together a range of creative technologies, disciplines and industry connections in one environment, creating new possibilities for how stories are developed and shared," Mr Pillai said.
The Virtual Production Studio sits at the centre of Curtin's growing Digital Creative Industries initiative, which aims to create stronger industry pathways for students and increase collaboration between the University and the creative sector in Australia and Southeast Asia.
The new facility strengthens the University's partnership with Singapore-based production company Oceanus Media Global (OMG), while the launch event also marked the start of a new creative collaboration involving Curtin, OMG and Australian filmmaker and producer Paul Barron.
Curtin students and staff will have opportunities for work-integrated learning on Mr Barron's upcoming Australia-Singapore-Malaysia co-production.
Mr Barron said genuine international co-production depended on more than bringing organisations together, with successful collaboration requiring the sharing of resources, ideas and values.
"We have shared storytellers, shared stories and shared resources," Mr Barron said.
"What Curtin and OMG have done with the parties here is, to me, an excellent example of what collaboration can be. It is a sharing of resources and values that can create productions that appeal to international audiences while reflecting an important regional focus and identity."
Curtin's collaboration with OMG has created opportunities for students to gain experience on international productions and collaborate with industry professionals.
In 2025, Curtin students contributed to a feature film production through the partnership and received professional screen credits before graduating.
OMG Chief Executive Officer Nick GC Tan said the hub represented more than a technological investment.
"It is more than just a studio: it is an ecosystem," Mr Tan said.
"It is not just another teaching lab: it is a gateway to Southeast Asia and the rest of the world."
Curtin student Serena Bowering, who has worked with the University's virtual production technology, said the facility was changing how emerging creatives approached their work.
"Working on this project with the LED volume changed my mindset from, 'What can we get away with?', to 'What can we create?'," Ms Bowering said.
"The virtual production screen is more than just amazing technology, it's a platform for future storytellers." The launch brought together senior representatives from Curtin University, the Western Australian creative industries sector and international guests from Singapore and Malaysia, including executives from OMG, the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore and Iskandar Malaysia Studios.
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Original text here: https://www.curtin.edu.au/news/media-release/lights-camera-innovation-curtins-new-virtual-studio-sets-the-scene-for-future-storytellers/
Juniata Graduates Put Their Education to Work in Huntingdon County
HUNTINGDON, Pennsylvania, Oct. 14 -- Juniata College issued the following news:
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Juniata Graduates Put Their Education to Work in Huntingdon County
October 13, 2026
HUNTINGDON, Pa. - Juniata College welcomes two recent graduates serving the Huntingdon County community through AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), with projects focused on expanding access to oral healthcare and supporting local students as they explore and plan for their futures.
Hailey Hendricks '24, g '25, is serving as a Dental Access Coordinator through a partnership between Juniata College's Center
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HUNTINGDON, Pennsylvania, Oct. 14 -- Juniata College issued the following news:
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Juniata Graduates Put Their Education to Work in Huntingdon County
October 13, 2026
HUNTINGDON, Pa. - Juniata College welcomes two recent graduates serving the Huntingdon County community through AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), with projects focused on expanding access to oral healthcare and supporting local students as they explore and plan for their futures.
Hailey Hendricks '24, g '25, is serving as a Dental Access Coordinator through a partnership between Juniata College's Centerfor Community Engagement and Broad Top Area Medical Center. Luke Bittner '26 is serving as a Workforce Development Coordinator at Huntingdon Area High School.
Hendricks graduated from Juniata in 2024 with degrees in biology and ceramic arts and earned her MBA in Healthcare Administration in 2025. Before beginning her VISTA service, she worked as a dental assistant in Huntingdon for three years, gaining clinical experience and developing an interest in improving access to oral healthcare.
Through her VISTA role, Hendricks is working to expand access to dental care throughout rural Huntingdon County. Her work includes dental outreach and education, connecting community members with available resources, building partnerships with local dental providers and organizations, and developing initiatives to address barriers to oral healthcare.
"I'm excited to combine my clinical experience, education, and passion for community health through my VISTA service," Hendricks said. "I'm grateful to continue my work with the Juniata community while partnering with Broad Top Area Medical Center to make a difference in dental health across the region."
Her experience as a dental assistant has given her firsthand insight into the challenges that can prevent people from receiving needed care, while her education in healthcare administration has provided additional preparation for the community-focused work of her VISTA position.
Hendricks plans to pursue dental school following her year of service.
Bittner, a member of the Juniata College Class of 2026 who completed a Program of Emphasis in psychology, is serving at Huntingdon Area High School as a Workforce Development Coordinator. His work gives him the opportunity to work directly with students, counselors, educators, and local employers while helping to explore place-based education to career pathways and opportunities for local youth.
"I wanted to gain experience working in a school setting while making a meaningful contribution to this community," Bittner said. "VISTA gives me the opportunity to help students explore their futures and connect with opportunities they might not otherwise have access to."
In his role, Bittner is developing a deeper understanding of the barriers students face and the resources and support that can help them succeed. The experience also connects directly to his plans to pursue a career as a school psychologist.
"My VISTA role allows me to work alongside students, counselors, and educators while developing a better understanding of the barriers students face and the support they need to succeed," Bittner said. "This experience connects directly to my goal of becoming a school psychologist and supporting students' academic, social, and emotional well-being."
Following his VISTA service, Bittner plans to attend graduate school in school psychology.
AmeriCorps VISTA members serve with community organizations and institutions to address local needs while gaining professional experience through a year of public service. Juniata's VISTA partnerships provide recent graduates with opportunities to apply their education and skills to challenges facing the Huntingdon County community.
Through their respective roles, Hendricks and Bittner are continuing Juniata's tradition of connecting students and graduates with meaningful opportunities to engage with and contribute to the communities around them.
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Original text here: https://www.juniata.edu/about/news/archive.php?action=SHOWARTICLE&id=7295
Geneva College: Junior Sydney Schmied Publishes Her First Novel
BEAVER FALLS, Pennsylvania, Oct. 14 -- Geneva College issued the following news:
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Junior Sydney Schmied Publishes Her First Novel
Misty Mator
October 13, 2026
A book launch for junior Sydney Schmied '28 and her new book, The Darling's Daughter, was held in McCartney Library's West Reading room on September 30. The Geneva community celebrated the inaugural publication of the first book in The Majestic Theater Series through the traditional publishing house Wild Hearts Books.
Daniel Williams, PhD proudly introduced Sydney, saying that her work is the embodiment of the goal implicit in
... Show Full Article
BEAVER FALLS, Pennsylvania, Oct. 14 -- Geneva College issued the following news:
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Junior Sydney Schmied Publishes Her First Novel
Misty Mator
October 13, 2026
A book launch for junior Sydney Schmied '28 and her new book, The Darling's Daughter, was held in McCartney Library's West Reading room on September 30. The Geneva community celebrated the inaugural publication of the first book in The Majestic Theater Series through the traditional publishing house Wild Hearts Books.
Daniel Williams, PhD proudly introduced Sydney, saying that her work is the embodiment of the goal implicit inthe C.S. Lewis paraphrased quote, "The world does not need more Christian literature. What it needs is more Christians writing good literature." He further described Sydney's Christian historical fiction as having "no preachiness or moral snobbery," however "Christ is the warmth running through Sydney's stories." He described her as an "exceptionally hard worker for the Lord...who writes wonderful stories."
Once Sydney reached the podium, her author's journey became the topic of discussion.
"I didn't know I wanted to be a writer until it snuck up on me. I just knew I hated math," said Sydney to a round of chuckling.
"Writing became a creative outlet, and I haven't stopped," continued Sydney. "I don't believe in writer's block. You sit down and write even if you don't want to. Sometimes I go back and delete a bunch of stuff; I have some good writing sprints." She and Williams together relayed an analogy comparing writing to a sandbox through a quote by author Shannon Hale: "I'm writing a first draft and reminding myself that I'm simply shoveling sand into a box so that later I can build castles."
Describing her process, Sydney detailed that she'll spend a month researching a time period, compiling up to 27 pages of research before she begins her eight-month long process of writing and editing a novel. "I don't always know what story I'm going to write. Sometimes I just start with a problem. For example, in The Darling's Daughter, one character's problem is: 'I know God forgives, but how do I stop trying to pay a debt that Jesus already settled, and trust in Him enough to let go of my guilt?'"
Sydney was mentored by author Rachel Scott McDaniel who suggested she publish and guided her how to write a query letter. "I got 28 rejections," said Sydney. "My parents encouraged me to not quit because I had worked so hard. A lot of people get more than 28 rejections. I sent batches of 10 query letters at once, which helped me not get my heart set on any one."
Upon her signing a contract for publication by Wild Heart Books, she had to balance the work of a full-time student and a working author. This came down to time management, and the grace that her publisher allowed her to choose her own deadlines within a given timeframe. A few of these publishing deadlines over various academic breaks, such as spring break.
The second book in her series, The Playwright's Masquerade, releases on January 26, 2027. You can learn more about Sydney at her website sydneyschmiedbooks.com or on social media @sydneyschmiedauthor.
Sydney Schmied writes sweet and intriguing Gilded Age historical romances with a whole lot of faith. She is a 2023 ACFW First Impressions Contest finalist and a 2024 Genesis Contest Semi-finalist, as well as a Scrivenings Press Get Pubbed Finalist. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, painting, and a good cup of coffee or a London Fog.
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The Geneva Story publishes content from a variety of contributors across the Geneva College community. The perspectives, experiences, and conclusions expressed in this content are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the official views of Geneva College, its leadership, or its editorial staff.
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Original text here: https://story.geneva.edu/articles/junior-sydney-schmied-publishes-her-first-novel
ESU Students Gain Real-World Experience Through Partnership With Camelback Resort
EAST STROUDSBURG, Pennsylvania, Oct. 14 -- East Stroudsburg University issued the following news release:
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ESU Students Gain Real-World Experience Through Partnership with Camelback Resort
East Stroudsburg University hospitality and business students are gaining valuable industry experience through a new work-based learning partnership with Camelback Resort, connecting classroom learning with real-world challenges and career opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Students enrolled in the Community Tourism Development course participated this fall in a series of professional
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EAST STROUDSBURG, Pennsylvania, Oct. 14 -- East Stroudsburg University issued the following news release:
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ESU Students Gain Real-World Experience Through Partnership with Camelback Resort
East Stroudsburg University hospitality and business students are gaining valuable industry experience through a new work-based learning partnership with Camelback Resort, connecting classroom learning with real-world challenges and career opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Students enrolled in the Community Tourism Development course participated this fall in a series of professionaldevelopment and industry-engagement activities.
The initiative provides students with opportunities to apply classroom concepts in professional settings while developing relationships with industry professionals and gaining a deeper understanding of careers across the hospitality and tourism sector. The course is taught by Li-Ming (Stanley) Chiang, Ed.D., chair, professor, and internship coordinator for HRTM.
As part of the project, students visited Camelback Resort to explore a variety of hospitality operations and career pathways. Activities included a resort tour, mock interviews, resume reviews, professional networking and discussions with managers representing departments such as food and beverage, human resources, aquatics, front desk operations and sales.
The experience also allowed students to explore individual areas of professional interest. Each student selected a hospitality-related topic and was paired with Camelback professionals who provided industry insight and shared their experiences.
For Caleb Hostetter, a senior in Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism Management with a minor in Event Planning, employee retention was a particular area of interest. Hostetter met with Camelback's food and beverage leadership to learn how the resort approaches employee engagement, retention and workplace culture.
"This was a great way for us to get out of the classroom and meet with people who are actually working in the hospitality industry every day," Hostetter said. "I was able to learn a lot about the behind-the-scenes of the food and beverage department and everything that they do to be a successful operation."
"The partnership is designed to foster the College of Business and Management's learning objectives by combining theory, practice and application with progressive, hands-on learning experiences that integrate classroom knowledge with professional practice," said Dr. Sylvester Williams, dean of the College of Business and Management.
The initiative is part of HRTM's Work-Based Learning: Sustainable Talent Development Project, an effort meant to strengthen relationships with regional employers and create meaningful pathways between higher education and the hospitality and tourism workforce.
"The project aims to strengthen community partnerships, expand student exposure to diverse career pathways, and foster sustainable workforce development within the hospitality and tourism industry," Chiang said. "These experiences allow students to see how the concepts they learn in the classroom are applied in professional environments and help them become more confident and career ready."
Learn more about ESU's hospitality, recreation and tourism management (https://www.esu.edu/academics/colleges-departments/hospitality/index.php) program.
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Original text here: https://quantum.esu.edu/insider/esu-students-gain-real-world-experience-through-partnership-with-camelback-resort/
Centre College: Study Abroad Program Earns National Recognition, Reflecting Broader Momentum in Global Education
DANVILLE, Kentucky, Oct. 14 -- Centre College issued the following news:
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Study abroad program earns national recognition, reflecting broader momentum in global education
October 13, 2026
By Jimmy Schlemmer
With 20 semester-long programs in 13 countries, nearly 85 percent of all Centre students study abroad or away at least once, with many traveling multiple times to different continents.
Key Takeaways
* Faculty spend their summers and breaks visiting new and familiar locations to conduct on-the-ground research, explore new ideas and approaches to global education. This supports giving
... Show Full Article
DANVILLE, Kentucky, Oct. 14 -- Centre College issued the following news:
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Study abroad program earns national recognition, reflecting broader momentum in global education
October 13, 2026
By Jimmy Schlemmer
With 20 semester-long programs in 13 countries, nearly 85 percent of all Centre students study abroad or away at least once, with many traveling multiple times to different continents.
Key Takeaways
* Faculty spend their summers and breaks visiting new and familiar locations to conduct on-the-ground research, explore new ideas and approaches to global education. This supports givingstudents an experience they carry with them for life.
* CentreTerm's "Sardinia: Beyond the Colonial Postcard," led by Associate Professor of French Marc Demont, received a 2026 GoAbroad Innovation Award in the category of Innovation in Global Citizenship.
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Centre College has built a reputation as a national leader in Study Abroad and Away, offering highly sought-after programs worldwide.
That reputation has earned Centre a top 25 ranking from U.S. News and World Report. The College's standing is also reflected by a top 5 ranking in the annual Institute of International Education Open Doors Report.
But Centre isn't resting on its past success. Faculty and staff are hard at work to ensure study abroad gives students an educational experience they carry with them throughout their lives, and a recent recognition shows that work is paying off.
Centre College's CentreTerm study abroad program "Sardinia: Beyond the Colonial Postcard" has received the 2026 GoAbroad Innovation Award in the category of Innovation in Global Citizenship.
"This award, and the growth of our faculty learning community, are two signs of the same thing: our faculty are asking harder questions about what education abroad should look like, and our students are the ones who benefit," said Matthew Pierce, Director for Centre Global and Professor of Religion. "We're not just sending students overseas. We're building programs that ask them to think critically about where they are and why it matters."
The award was announced at the NAFSA: Association of International Educators Annual Conference in Orlando, one of the largest professional gatherings in international education. Recipients of the GoAbroad Innovation Award are selected by an international panel of education professionals for advancing new directions in global learning.
The program, led by Associate Professor of French Marc Demont, was recognized for its approach to global learning. It combines place-based education, critical reflection, contemplative practices and community engagement.
Over the past three years, students in the program have examined cultural heritage, sustainability, identity, tourism and community-centered development while building intercultural competence through direct engagement with communities across Sardinia.
The recognition speaks not only to the strength of the Sardinia program but to Centre's broader commitment to high-impact educational practices in education abroad.
Following the announcement, Demont discussed the program's approach to community engagement and global citizenship education in an extended interview with the Italian outlet S'Indipendente.
"Rather than presenting culture as a coherent and unitary whole, these encounters reveal it as layered, contextual, and shaped by different stories, experiences and social positions," Demont said. "Over time I realized that one of the most important lessons that students could learn abroad was not a particular interpretation of Sardinia, but a different relationship with the culture itself."
This fall, Demont will continue leading a faculty learning community, Critical Study Abroad, which he launched last year to examine how to improve the quality of education abroad through engagement with field-specific literature.
Pierce said Centre is still early in a multi-year evaluation of its international programming, hoping to find ways to continue to facilitate innovative and creative pedagogies. A big part of that is supporting and providing opportunities for faculty to explore new ideas and approaches to global education.
This past summer, Centre supported faculty visits to several international locations ahead of upcoming courses.
W. George Matton Professor of Anthropology Robyn Cutright and Associate Professor of Classics Danielle La Londe traveled to Italy to shape a new approach for an upcoming CentreTerm course, while Marlene & David Grissom Associate Professor of Anthropology Jamie Shenton visited sites in France as she prepares to direct the Centre-in-Strasbourg program in 2027-28.
Associate Professor of Spanish Iulia Sprinceana explored new locations in Merida that she will integrate into the Centre-in-Merida program.
"Having both short-term and long-term opportunities for faculty to develop new courses and new approaches to teaching abroad has helped keep our study abroad programs dynamic and engaging," Pierce said. "Teaching abroad isn't just about teaching in a different location. It's about using the location to teach in ways that aren't possible on campus."
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Original text here: https://www.centre.edu/news/study-abroad-program-national-recognition-global-education-faculty-development
