EP138: The Critical Need for Global Learning Initiatives, with Dr. LaNitra M. Berger

In The Margins

In this episode we welcome Dr. LaNitra M. Berger, associate professor of History and Art History and director of African and African American Studies at George Mason University.

Berger is also the current president of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, a non-profit association dedicated to international education and exchange.

Berger and Diverse host Ralph Newell discuss the unique intersection of art history and African/African American Studies in the classroom, and how this interdisciplinary approach helps students gain a deeper understanding of the Black experience in the diaspora. They explore the importance of global learning initiatives and study abroad opportunities, particularly in providing access and support for underrepresented students.

Listen in as they delve into Berger's work in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the field of international education through her leadership at NAFSA. Learn more as they discuss the challenges and opportunities in promoting cross-cultural understanding, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international education, Berger's journey in empowering students to become global citizens.

KEY POINTS:

- Berger's expertise in art history, particularly her research of South African artist, Irma Stern.

- Berger's leadership of the African and African American Studies program at George Mason University and the interdisciplinary curriculum.

- George Mason's initiatives to foster an inclusive environment for diverse students, such as the enslaved people memorial.

- Berger's role as NAFSA president and her focus on expanding access to international education.

- Challenges faced by international education during COVID-19 and NAFSA's advocacy for international students.

- Berger's advice for those interested in international education, especially for women and people of color.

- Berger's interests, such as her love for travel and witnessing her students' success.

QUOTABLE:

"I love colleges. I love higher education. I loved being a student. I still consider myself a student and try to learn new things all the time. And I love the very uniqueness of the American higher education system that can take someone like me who came from a solidly middle-class background." – Dr. LaNitra M. Berger

GUEST RESOURCES:

Dr. LaNitra M. Berger

[Book] IRMA STERN AND THE RACIAL PARADOX OF SOUTH AFRICAN MODERN ART: AUDACITIES OF COLOR

[Book] Social Justice and International Education: Research, Practice, and Perspectives

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Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.

In The Margins is produced by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).