In order to provide support and oversight of the International Studies program, the College of Arts and Sciences appointed Michael Volz as director beginning September 1, 2019.  Professor Volz has been with MU since 2005, first as director of the International Teaching Assistant Program, and since 2006 as the Coordinator of the Chinese Studies Program.  Volz is deeply involved in promoting not only education related to China, but international education more broadly.  He has served on the College of Arts and Sciences Study Abroad Advisory Committee, the Boren Fellowships Review Committee, and the A&S Diversity Committee.  He is the faculty advisor for the student Association of Chinese Language and Culture, Mizzou Students for Justice in Palestine, and is the campus representative for the National Collegiate Chinese Honor Society.  For more information about Professor Volz, click on the link.

From the Director

Dear International Studies Students:  I’m excited to take on this new position.  Students at MU have been able to major in International Studies since 1991, but it is the first time that a director has been especially appointed to lead the program.  My goals are to help build on an already great program so that it better meets your needs, and provides you with the support you need to be successful both on campus, and as you pursue your careers after you graduate.  Please refer to this and future newsletters, for information about upcoming events and opportunities.  I also will plan a couple events each semester where you can meet and get to know others in your major, with similar interests.  See the “Study Abroad Stories” event below.  I would like to see International Studies transformed from simply being a pathway towards a largely individualized degree, to become a gathering place for a community of learners with a common purpose.  – Michael Volz