KCC-OIT Global Forum Highlights Economic Benefits of International Exchange

Event explores how foreign students and partnerships boost local economies in Klamath Falls

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The second annual Global Engagement Forum, hosted by Klamath Community College and Oregon Institute of Technology, brought together international students, faculty, and community leaders to discuss the economic and cultural benefits of foreign exchange programs. The event featured a keynote address from a high-ranking Taiwanese trade official who emphasized the opportunities for innovation and cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan.

Why it matters

As colleges and universities seek to attract more international students, events like the Global Engagement Forum help demonstrate the tangible economic impact these students can have on local communities. The forum also highlights the importance of cultivating 'cultural intelligence' among students to prepare them for the increasingly global workforce.

The details

The Global Engagement Forum featured speakers from KCC and OIT who discussed how international students contribute unique ideas and experiences that enrich the local community. Keynote speaker May Mei-Chen Lin, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle, emphasized the opportunities for U.S.-Taiwan cooperation in STEM fields and noted Taiwan's status as a global hub for innovation in areas like semiconductors, AI, and green energy.

  • The first Global Engagement Forum was held on the OIT campus in November 2024.
  • This year's forum took place on March 4 at the KCC campus.

The players

Dr. Roberto Gutierrez

President of Klamath Community College.

Dr. Hesham El-Rewini

Provost and Senior Vice President at Oregon Institute of Technology, who came to the U.S. from Egypt.

May Mei-Chen Lin

Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle, with significant experience in Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Dr. Fred Griffiths

Director of International Programs at Klamath Community College.

Dr. Linus Yu

Associated Provost at Oregon Institute of Technology.

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What they’re saying

“We feel it is important for the community to see how the colleges are connected to the wider, global marketplace. There are several such international businesses right here in the Klamath Basin and they have an impact on its overall economy.”

— Dr. Roberto Gutierrez, President, Klamath Community College

“Learning the culture of another country is like filling a glass with water. Make sure your glass is turned right-side up to accept the culture you are participating in.”

— Dr. Hesham El-Rewini, Provost and Senior Vice President, Oregon Institute of Technology

“The heart of innovation is cooperation among nations, such as the U.S. and Taiwan. Taiwan, OIT and KCC are all a bit 'nerdy' but in a good way. They are matched perfectly to boost innovation.”

— May Mei-Chen Lin, Director General, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle

What’s next

The organizers plan to continue hosting the Global Engagement Forum annually, alternating between the KCC and OIT campuses, to further strengthen ties between the colleges, international students, and the local community.

The takeaway

Events like the Global Engagement Forum demonstrate how international exchange programs can have a tangible economic impact on local communities, while also cultivating the 'cultural intelligence' that is increasingly vital for students entering a globalized workforce.