Transforming Global Studies: Schnitzer Family’s $25 Million Gift Fuels University of Oregon’s Vision

Jordan Schnitzer has made headlines with his generous $25 million donation to the University of Oregon (UO). This sum represents the largest private gift aimed specifically at the College of Arts and Sciences, which is the university’s largest college, serving about two-thirds of all students. This notable gesture will help enhance global education and research at UO, with the global studies school now renamed the “Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages.”

UO has had significant donations before, such as Phil and Penny Knight’s $500 million for a new science campus in 2017. However, the Schnitzer donation is a major step for the arts and sciences college, especially at a time when international aid organizations face challenges. For instance, Mercy Corps recently announced cuts to many programs due to reduced federal funding.

Aneesh Aneesh, a professor in the global studies program, emphasizes the importance of this donation, highlighting how graduates will be equipped to navigate complex global issues. He points out that societies today find themselves pulled in different directions due to globalization and local loyalties. Graduates from this program are expected to be future leaders in various sectors, including diplomatic services, NGOs, and global businesses.

Schnitzer has expressed hope that this initiative will inspire young minds to tackle both local and international problems. He believes that engaged and informed students are key to making positive changes in the world. The funds will allow UO to attract exceptional faculty in global studies and languages, as well as support research for graduate students.

In addition to creating a new undergraduate major focused on international relations, the donation will also support the newly established Center for Global Futures. This center will host lectures, conferences, and a special prize for outstanding global research, aiming to shine a light on pressing world issues.

UO President Karl Scholz has praised the donation for fostering a diverse learning environment. He notes that the goal of education is not to tell students what to think, but to teach them how to think critically about complex global challenges.

Overall, this significant contribution will help shape future leaders who can effectively engage with our interconnected world. You can learn more about the importance of global studies and education through resources from institutions like UNESCO.



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