1.1A senate resolution
1.2recognizing and encouraging international education as an essential
1.3component of Minnesota's future
1.4WHEREAS, international education is a critical component of higher education in
1.5Minnesota and contributes to the economy of the state and to a diverse college environment,
1.6enhancing both academic and extracurricular programs; and
1.7WHEREAS, international education is critical to promoting a broadened worldview and
1.8therefore preparing Minnesota for life and work in the global economy and creating a diverse
1.9academic environment by exchanging scholars and students between countries and building the
1.10foundation for future business success; and
1.11WHEREAS, higher education should emphasize international education including foreign
1.12language instruction and study abroad in order to ensure graduates have the cross-cultural skills
1.13necessary to function effectively in the global workforce; and
1.14WHEREAS, Minnesota recognizes the social importance of cultural awareness, the need to
1.15promote study abroad programs that serve Minnesota students, and the economic significance
1.16of international students who come to Minnesota for the educational opportunities provided
1.17by the state; and
1.18WHEREAS, the economic gain of international students and their families for Minnesota
1.19was estimated at over $170,000,000 in 2005-2006 and a strategy at the state and national level is
1.20needed to ensure America's status as a magnet for international students and scholars; and
2.1WHEREAS, the economy of Minnesota is inextricably tied to the rest of the world and
2.2state economic development depends upon a deliberate strategic development plan that includes
2.3recognition of the role of international education in all its facets; and
2.4WHEREAS, heightened cultural awareness is critical to national interests and is a
2.5critical component of foreign policy, and Minnesota colleges and universities play a key role in
2.6developing foreign language and foreign-area expertise by promoting language study, study
2.7abroad, and faculty exchange programs; and
2.8WHEREAS, United States national security and economic interests and competitiveness
2.9depend significantly on the country's ability to provide future leaders with the best education
2.10possible; NOW, THEREFORE,
2.11BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the State of Minnesota that it recognizes that
2.12international education is an essential component of the future of Minnesota and supports and
2.13encourages students and faculty to promote international education as a part of curricular and
2.14extracurricular life at the state's colleges and universities to ensure that students and future leaders
2.15are prepared to meet the challenges of a global society.
2.16BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is directed to prepare an
2.17enrolled copy of this resolution, to be authenticated by his signature and that of the Chair of the
2.18Senate Rules and Administration Committee.
