2011 Russia Delegation
U.S. University Presidents’ Delegation to Russia
February 27 – March 5, 2011
You are invited to join Alina Romanowski, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Academic Programs for the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), and Dr. Allan E. Goodman, President and CEO of the Institute of International Education (IIE) on this special U.S. University Presidents’ Delegation to Russia. The purpose of this delegation is to promote U.S. higher education and to enhance and expand linkages between our two countries. The delegation will take place under the umbrella of the U.S.-Russia Bilateral Presidential Commission, established by President Obama and President Medvedev to advance bilateral relations in a number of important fields. Partial funding to support this initiative has generously been provided by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
Recent developments in Russia’s higher education sector provide a solid foundation for greater engagement with U.S. institutions. These developments include the introduction of the European Bologna Process, a related standardization of curricula and degrees, and an increased interest in dual degree programs between Russian and foreign universities. In addition, 29 national research universities have been designated by the Russian government for investments in science and innovation, including a mandate for international collaboration. Key areas of emphasis include, but are not limited to, work on energy and the environment, new (including “green”) technologies, commercialization of scientific research, nanotechnology, and related topics. Russian universities remain interested in international collaboration across disciplines and professional schools.
The select group of delegates will convene for an initial briefing in Moscow by the U.S. Embassy followed by meetings with senior officials from the Russian Ministry of Education and Science, Russian university rectors and vice-rectors, and other academic leaders during the week-long trip. The delegation will visit numerous universities in Moscow and meet with leaders from the education, business and NGO sector. Smaller groups of delegates will elect to visit one of three regional cities (St. Petersburg, Kazan, or Novosibirsk) for additional meetings and university site visits. The delegation will conclude in Moscow for a final meeting and debrief. The Fulbright Program Director in Moscow will accompany the delegation and provide assistance in developing linkages with institutions in Russia, including attracting more international students.
We encourage you to bring along the appropriate colleague from your institution who assists you in advancing international initiatives on your campus.
Tentative schedule of events (subject to change)
February 27 – March 2 – Moscow:
- Arrival and Welcome Dinner
- Country Briefing by U.S. Embassy
- Meetings with senior officials from the Ministry of Education and Science and Russian university rectors and vice-rectors
- Dinner and reception at U.S. Ambassador’s residence
- Site visits to Moscow universities and a plenary meeting with universities from outside Moscow
- Optional cultural program upon arrival
March 2 -3 – St. Petersburg, Kazan or Novosibirsk:
- Site visits to local universities and meeting with senior officials
- Round-table discussion with current students and alumni
- Reception with academic community
March 4 – 5 – Moscow:
- Site visits to universities and labs
- Debrief Meeting at U.S. Embassy
- 5 star hotel accommodations
- Airfare within Russia
- All local transportation
- Meals, receptions, and event costs
Background materials and briefings by Fulbright Program Director in Moscow