URI Strengthens Global Partnerships in South Korea

University's delegation showcases growing trend of proactive international engagement in higher education.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 6:06pm

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The University of Rhode Island's recent delegation to South Korea exemplifies a growing trend in higher education: a proactive approach to global engagement that extends beyond traditional study abroad programs. This includes forging lasting partnerships, fostering research collaborations, and preparing students for a workforce that demands intercultural competence.

Why it matters

URI's strengthened ties with South Korean academic and industry partners demonstrate the value of strategic international partnerships, which encompass joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and the development of curricula addressing global challenges. This aligns with a broader trend in higher education focused on developing 'global citizens' equipped to navigate an interconnected world.

The details

The visit featured a showcase at Seoul's Dongdaemun Design Plaza and the launch of the 'Rhody Abroad' Seoul program, offering customized study abroad opportunities. Students like Bo Brady, Megan Wallitsch, and Sydney Cappello participated, gaining valuable professional development through hands-on experience. URI also connected with alumni in Seoul and visited the largest U.S. Military base overseas, Camp Humphries, showcasing the university's holistic approach to global engagement.

  • The University of Rhode Island's recent delegation to South Korea took place in March 2026.

The players

University of Rhode Island

A public research university located in Kingston, Rhode Island, known for its proactive approach to global engagement in higher education.

Kristin Johnson

Vice Provost of Global Initiatives at the University of Rhode Island, who notes that these global experiences are about preparing students for a future where collaboration across borders is the norm.

Donna Gamache-Griffiths

Director of global programs at the University of Rhode Island's College of Business, who emphasizes that these visits are 'critical for championing global learning and creating lasting partnerships.'

Bo Brady, Megan Wallitsch, and Sydney Cappello

Journalism students from the University of Rhode Island who documented the South Korea visit and contributed to a podcast episode, gaining valuable professional development opportunities.

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What they’re saying

“These experiences are about more than just skill-building; they're about preparing students for a future where collaboration across borders is the norm.”

— Kristin Johnson, Vice Provost of Global Initiatives

“These visits are 'critical for championing global learning and creating lasting partnerships.'”

— Donna Gamache-Griffiths, Director of global programs, College of Business

What’s next

The University of Rhode Island plans to continue expanding its global partnerships and study abroad opportunities, including the 'Rhody Abroad' program in Seoul.

The takeaway

The University of Rhode Island's model for global engagement, which focuses on strategic partnerships, immersive student experiences, and interdisciplinary approaches, offers valuable insights into the future of higher education's role in preparing students for a globalized world.