The Center for Global Business Introduces the #KeepGlobalSmith Initiative

The Center for Global Business (CGB) introduces #KeepGlobalSmith, an initiative that supports and encourages innovations in global teaching and programming that gives students the opportunity to engage with peers, companies, content, and cultures around the world in new and exciting ways. Although travel is limited this year, CGB is leveraging technologies and resources to engage with the world in the following new and innovative ways this fall.

Undergraduate and Graduate Programming

CGB will offer a variety of new programs and opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage with the world this fall and throughout the academic year. Here are some of the highlights of the center’s new programming:

• International Business Agility Lab Series: New and innovative virtual case competitions that allow undergraduate students to learn from global business leaders, collaborate with international peers, and focus on business resilience to solve a real global business issue. Over the course of 3-4 days, students are exposed to an international company, work on teams with business students around the world, and gain hands-on case experience to build their resumes. Each IB agility lab will focus on one functional area of business and will include an optional virtual cultural activity.
• Managing Global Business Risks and Opportunities: This brand-new virtual MBA course focuses on doing business in five countries: Chile, Israel, Poland, South Africa, and Vietnam. The course will provide students the opportunity to meet virtually with global business leaders and subject matter experts in these five countries, connect with normally inaccessible leadership, engage in discussion with MBA students from across the world, and work with a US-based firm on a global consulting project — all from the comfort of being at home.

Curriculum Development: Faculty Global Resources

CGB has curated a list of resources to assist faculty with the internationalization of their course content. Resources include case databases, simulations, podcasts, webinars, cultural intelligence assessments, and more. Additionally, CGB has created a series of Teaching Guides to provide critical thinking and discussion questions for each of the Distinguished Speakers in International Business Series events. Each of the Teaching Guides can be used to supplement course lessons in international business education.

The #KeepGlobalSmith Grant

The grant can be used to support any teaching activity that significantly enhances global learning. Applications are rolling, but due December 1st for best consideration for spring semester 2021 funding.

The Center for Global Business will also continue signature programming and activities throughout the semester. Tune into the Global Pulse and join live virtual events of the Distinguished Speakers in International Business Series and annual International Education Week activities in November.

In the meantime, follow us on Twitter at #KeepGlobalSmith and check out the full line-up of activities this fall in the calendar below:

These programs are funded in part by CIBE, a Title VI grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

— By Marina Augoustidis, associate director, Center for Global Business