NW Kentucky News

Brescia Welcomes Open World Delegates

Brescia University welcomed a US Congressional Office for International Leadership Open World delegation from Poland on Thursday, February 9th. This group is administered through Friendship Force International by Julie Vann, journey coordinator, and Friendship Force Western Kentucky. The theme of the visit was social inclusion for people with disabilities. The group also visited Wendell Foster and Puzzle Pieces.

The Open World Leadership Center administers the Open World program, one of the most effective U.S. exchange programs for countries of the post-Soviet era. The Open World program focuses both on assisting the Congress in its oversight responsibilities and on conducting exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between the up-and-coming leaders of Open World countries and Americans dedicated to showcasing U.S. values and democratic institutions. The Center’s bipartisan nature and independence from the priorities of any presidential administration is an important asset for the program. Aimed at establishing mutually beneficial relationships between future leaders of other nations, Open World is a value-added program that permits practical and depoliticized options for engagement.

Brescia University Marilyn Younger Conley School of Social Work Associate Professor, Dr. Elaine R. Wright, Ph.D. stated, “It was such an honor to be invited to provide an opportunity for students to interact with these professionals from Poland who serve and represent individuals with disabilities in their country. From learning about national policies and social stigmas to practicing a few words in Polish-speaking and sign languages, it was an enriching experience for everyone. These types of cross-cultural exchanges are truly an important part of building understanding and creating peace around the world.”

During their time on campus, the delegates spoke with undergraduate students on the topic of advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Students were able to ask about how advocacy, laws, and life differs in Poland and America.

Original source can be found here.