ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2016-2017
45
experiences during the internship. Applications for internships are due in February each
year and participants are selected through a competitive process.
The First-Year Leadership Challenge
The First-Year Leadership Challenge is a co-curricular experience offered during the
month of January that helps students identify their leadership strengths and position
themselves for success at Birmingham-Southern College and beyond. The Challenge
introduces leadership concepts relevant for campus involvement. Students meet weekly
to participate in activities and simulations with other first-year students. The Challenge is
a joint effort between the Office of Student Development and the Hess Center for
Leadership and Service. Participants are nominated by faculty and staff during the fall
term.
The Compass Student Publication
Compass
publishes academic papers submitted by students, faculty, and alumni that
address issues of leadership or service. The
Compass
is a student-run publication issued
each academic year. Submissions are welcome from all academic areas.
Sklenar Center for International Programs
Anne Ledvina, Associate Director
The Sklenar Center for International Programs provides leadership for international
education at Birmingham-Southern College. Global engagement and awareness is
fundamental to a liberal arts education and serves as the primary focus of the Sklenar
Center. All students should have the opportunity to travel and study abroad, meet people
of other cultures, and develop intercultural competencies. Toward this end, the Sklenar
Center operates three major programs: Global Engagement Initiatives, International
Student and Scholar Services, and Study Abroad/Exchange Programs.
Global Engagement Initiatives
Global Engagement Initiatives provide opportunities for students and the campus
community to explore global issues and to engage with cross-cultural perspectives,
including intercultural programs and training and celebrations of diversity and culture.
The Center sponsors International Education Week, organizes campus lectures to address
global issues, and provides administrative support for student organizations with an
intercultural mission. The Sklenar Center also assists faculty and staff with Fulbright
applications.
International Students and Scholar Services
The Sklenar Center, in partnership with the Office of Multicultural Affairs, supports
international students and visiting scholars. This support includes advice on immigration