PROCLAMATION BY BOB RILEY
GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALABAMA

WHEREAS, The United States Department of State and Department of Education have declared November 14 through November 18, 2005 as International Education Week in observance of the many important contributions of international education to the nation; and

WHEREAS, providing the future leaders of the this state with the broadest possible education will significantly impact our national security, foreign policy, economic competitiveness, and capacity for tolerance; and

WHEREAS, increasingly complex international trade relations, the urgent needs of developing nations, concern for the preservation of our global ecology and the constant goal of world peace require that today’s students be concerned with the world at large, appreciate and respect cultures and nations other than their own, and graduate with skills necessary to live and work effectively in an international context; and

WHEREAS, no student in the State of Alabama education system should be exempt from acquiring some sensitivity to the dynamic interaction of the many cultures and forces at work in our world society, so as to continue affirmatively as citizens of a world-wide community; and

WHEREAS, opportunities abound in higher education which enhance the understanding of other cultures and nations and contribute constructively toward a better future throughout the world through curricula, research, faculty exchange, study abroad and the presence of international students/scholars on our campuses; and

WHEREAS, Alabama is ideally suited to accomplish these objectives and take pride in its strong international presence through research and academic programs; and

WHEREAS, the emphasis on international education in Alabama will strengthen global understanding and build a foundation for the future of our state:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Bob Riley, Governor of the State of Alabama, do hereby proclaim, November 14 through November 18, 2005, as INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WEEK in the State of Alabama and encourage Alabama institutions of education to meet the challenges of a global society.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 14th day of October 2005.

GOVERNOR BOB RILEY

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