Program areas at MIC
World affairs events, the public face of Global Minnesota, are unique and diverse opportunities that go beyond international headlines, spark cultural conversations, and connect audiences with some of the worlds best thinkers. This past year, Global Minnesota hosted over 70 public events ranging from presentations by visiting ambassadors and high level diplomats, to corporate briefings, cultural activities, and panel presentations on current events. These events informed over 8,000 participants across Minnesota and around the world on a variety of international relations, policy, and cultural experience topics.
K-12 education programs support Minnesota educators and students in their efforts to learn more about the world and develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary for success in todays Global society. Throughout the school year, Global Minnesota brought 38 international visitors from 30 countries to expand Global education in Minnesota classrooms. Across 122 separate visits, Global educators logged almost 3,500 contact hours and sparked the Global curiosity of over 2,000 young students. Academic worldquest engaged 30 teams from schools around the metro area and greater Minnesota.
Professional exchanges connect emerging leaders from around the world to minnesotans for cultural and professional exchanges. Global Minnesota brings together local experts and participating visitors to share best practices and look at solutions to important issues. Global Minnesota serves as the states premier coordinator for the u.s. department of states international visitor leadership program and partners with public and private institutions to create custom professional exchange opportunities. This year, professional exchanges program hosted over 400 visiting professionals, representing 128 countries.
Discussion groups are based on the foreign policy associations great decisions program and offer opportunities across the state to explore the years most important issues and foreign policy topics. They provide high quality, nonpartisan information and bring together friends, colleagues, and neighbors who share a passion or curiosity for Global issues. Global Minnesota coordinates nearly 30 groups located across the state. Thousands of minnesotans engage in these conversations with more than 19 local speakers Global Minnesota has identified who are ready to share their Global expertise.