By Aaliyah Pamplin, Managing Editor
About six months and $385,000 later, the new space for the Office of Global Engagement is finished. The newly renovated OGE opened today. Countless students, faculty and staff come to observe and celebrate the opening.
“Our new location is more than just a change of address,” Associate Vice Chancellor Thomas Tyner said. “It is a statement.”
Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings and Tyner spoke at the opening. Both gave speeches on how the office is at the center of campus because they wanted it to be a reminder that UNCP campus welcomes all students, especially international students with open arms and that their presences enhance the campus.
Tyner said the office welcomes both international students and domestic students and they even welcome faculty and staff to come and enjoy the space.
When asked why it took about six months to complete, Tyner said they had a “very supportive team” that worked diligently to get the job done. They knocked out many walls and brightened up the space with new furniture. They are even going to add wallpaper of the different continents and a sign that says “The World Meets Here.”
OGE’s mission is to give a global presence to UNCP by being a place where students can study abroad, support international students and exchange students, and have academic partnerships.
Tyner thanked and mentioned many people during his speech, including his team, Immigration Specialist PDSO/RO, and English Language Institute Coordinator Janna Fahmy, Assistant Director of International Student Engagement and Study Abroad Rosa Ball, and a new member of the team, Caleb Trimmer. When asked about the new space Ball said, “It feels rejuvenating.”
“Global engagement is a two-way street. It’s not only about bringing the world to Pembroke, it’s also bringing Pembroke to the world,” Tyner said.
