Coe is working to develop a collaboration opportunity with the Consulate of the Republic of Kosovo and with select state and nonprofit organizations
Starting this summer, two Coe College students will be the first to engage in an enlightening diplomatic program. The immersive learning experience, named the Global Pathways Program, is a Coe initiative developed in collaboration with the Consulate of the Republic of Kosovo in Des Moines, Iowa’s only foreign consulate.
The students will work closely with the consulate and state organization staff to learn about citizen diplomacy efforts that strengthen the existing relationship between Kosovo and the State of Iowa. As part of the program, each student will pursue a summer-long project tailored to their passions and career path.
“This is an incredible opportunity for any student who is interested in international relations and communications and desires to expand international community engagement. It will be a unique first-hand look into how nations and states can work together to truly improve lives globally through mutual interests,” said Associate Vice President of Development, C3 and Special Projects Barb Tupper ’89.
The collaboration programs with higher education institutions are an important aspect of the broader strategic relationship between the State of Iowa and the Republic of Kosovo. The association originated with the role the Iowa National Guard played in the peacekeeping mission after the 1999 Kosovo War and was formalized in 2011. Today, the relationship between Iowa and Kosovo has evolved to feature numerous initiatives that fall into five partnership pillars: business, higher education, agriculture, culture and athletics. Supporting organizations include the Iowa Economic Development Authority, Iowa National Guard and the Iowa International Center.
Through this experience, Kohawks will have the opportunity to learn about and play a role in advancing the initiatives within those pillars. Assistant Professor of Sociology Alissa Boguslaw helped spearhead the internship program.
“Coe is at the forefront of international community engagement and this program provides an unparalleled opportunity to strengthen global connections and make meaningful contributions to international relations,” said Boguslaw.
Coe has a strong reputation for internships across the country — for six of the last seven years, Coe has been among the 25 Best Private Schools for Internships in the nation according to The Princeton Review.