Staff Reports | Community Updates
Maricopa Community Colleges has announced the launch of the new Center for Global Engagement, housed at the system’s District Office.
The newly formed center will continue initiatives previously led by the system’s Office of International and Intercultural Education, according to a press release.
The center’s new identity reflects its expanding role in creating global learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds, while remaining committed to integrating international perspectives into academic and co-curricular programs.
“Global education matters more than ever,” said Ms. Jen Sydow-Madoski, program manager for the Center for Global Engagement. “In today’s interconnected world, a growing share of learners are joining the global workforce, which makes our efforts all the more important. The Center for Global Engagement focuses on developing a greater sense of global awareness, introducing students to new perspectives, issues and communication skills—ultimately preparing our graduates to participate in the global economy.”
Helping students go global
The Center for Global Engagement will focus on educating active global citizens through study abroad programs and supporting international students with financial aid, F-1 visa maintenance and campus life adjustment.
By the numbers
During the spring 2025 semester, Maricopa Community Colleges saw a 5.4% increase in F-1 international student enrollment over the previous semester, supporting more than 600 students from 95 countries. An additional 600 non-F-1 international students enrolled, bringing the total to over 1,200 international learners taking classes both in-person and online.
This past summer, 131 students participated in study abroad programs led by faculty members. Programs ranged from one to four weeks and were held in Italy, the Czech Republic, Ireland, England, Japan, Africa and Mexico, allowing students to experience new cultures while earning college credit.
A global learning hub
In addition to student support, the center works with faculty to strengthen international ties through professional development programs. One example is the system’s longstanding partnership with the Universidad de Guanajuato in Guanajuato, Mexico. Each year, faculty members participate in a three-week program focused on curriculum innovation, sharing best practices and integrating global concepts into their courses.
“A global mindset starts in the classroom, which is why we have been intentional in collaborating with international institutions,” Ms. Sydow-Madoski said. “The Mexico Faculty Development Program is just one example of how we are building an international community of educators, integrating global perspectives into teaching materials and our classrooms.”
