A $5-million gift from former Coca-Cola executive Claus M. Halle and his wife Marianne will enable Emory to develop a comprehensive and integrated program in international studies. The University will use these funds to create a new Institute for Global Education that will promote the study of global subjects, the learning of foreign languages and world history, and the pursuit of international experiences and exchanges, with the goal of producing a new international culture for the University.
"Universities must be part of the world community by supporting the exploration of international topics and training students to pursue a range of careers in the global economy. The Halles' generous gift will help Emory to provide Atlanta and the region with leadership, resources and prestige in global affairs," said President Bill Chace. "Given Claus Halle's role as a major force behind The Coca-Cola Company's international expansion, and given also his commitment to building international understanding, the University is proud to see the Institute bear his name. We will all benefit enormously from his thoughtfulness."
"Emory students will benefit greatly from the opportunities for international study and learning in other countries that will now be possible through this support," said Dean of the College David Bright. "We must prepare our students to live in a global community."
Claus M. Halle said, "Our response to Emory's invitation to support their plans for an international learning institute was quick and enthusiastic. We had long seen the need for more global education here in the South as we believe that greater knowledge is key to better understanding of other countries, and that in turn leads to better relations, friendship and peace."
Halle has been associated with the Coca-Cola Company for more than 45 years. He retired in 1989 as senior executive vice president and head of Coca-Cola International, but continues as an international consultant and a director of Coca-Cola Enterprises as well as a member of the boards of several Coca-Cola subsidiary companies here and in Europe.
"We are profoundly grateful to the Halles for their generous gift, and we are blessed by their commitment to Emory and our students," said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Bill Fox.
Emory will name a distinguished scholar in international studies to serve as the Claus M. Halle Professor for Global Education and to direct the institute. The Halle Institute will support international studies and activities in each of the University's nine schools, particularly in Emory College where the primary teaching and research involving global subjects take place. Specific programs supported by the institute, in addition to the endowed professorship, will include:
* A visiting professorship in global education;
* Graduate fellowships to give graduate and professional school students the opportunity to conduct original research overseas, work in internships and learn the language and culture of other countries;
* Study-abroad scholarships for undergraduate students to enable them to learn foreign languages, new perspectives on academic disciplines and the traditions of other economies and cultures; and
* International affairs conferences to bring international business executives, scholars, politicians and other professionals from around the world to Atlanta for discussion, deliberation and collaboration.
-- Nancy Seideman