ORANGEBURG, S.C. (courtesy claflin.edu) — Claflin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack’s message of “Elevation and Transformation” was on full display April 18 during the launch of a historic partnership with Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU). Warmack and OWU President Matt vandenBerg, Ed.D., signed a “sister” school Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to establish one of the most comprehensive collaborations between a Historically Black College/University (HBCU) and a Predominantly White Institution (PWI).
“This expansive partnership will enhance academic, research, and global studies opportunities for students and faculty at these two exceptional liberal arts universities,” Warmack said. “As ‘sister’ institutions, we have several commonalities, most notably our affiliation with The United Methodist Church, our commitment to academic excellence, and our advocacy of diversity and inclusion.”
“We also embrace integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) throughout our liberal arts curriculum to prepare students for career opportunities in the 21st-century global economy. We are immensely excited to launch this partnership, which will provide mutual benefits for Claflin University and Ohio Wesleyan University,” added Warmack, who attended vandenBerg’s April 19 inauguration ceremony.
“It is truly extraordinary that our two venerable institutions have come together and pledged to change the world for our students, faculty, staff, and respective communities,” said vandenBerg. “Our pathbreaking agreement creates a foundation for innovative and life-changing work that will transform the educational experiences we provide, enrich the work of our faculty and staff, and unlock untold potential to solve vexing societal challenges. We are immensely grateful to our partners at Claflin for their shared commitment and vision.”
Specifics of the new agreement will include the formation of an advisory board with representatives – including students, faculty, and staff – to help guide the work. Building an alliance through the lens of equity, justice, and community service, the advisory board will explore collaborations spanning multiple areas.
Read more on the Claflin University website.
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