Emory has launched a nationwide search to locate a permanent vice provost for International Affairs and director of the Halle Institute for Global Learning, the provost’s office announced recently.

The School of Law’s Tom Arthur has held this position on an interim basis for the past two years. Marion Creekmore served as vice provost from 1993–2000, also serving as Halle director the last four years of his term.

During the past decade, the University has made significant strides in internationalizing its teaching, learning and research. Several offices and programs devoted to internationalization have been created in the various schools, and the number of students and faculty who spend time abroad has skyrocketed.

As this globalization trend continues at Emory, it is being refined. Interim Provost Woody Hunter has directed each of the University’s schools to designate a “point person or office” on internationalization, someone to whom foreign visitors may turn with questions about a variety of issues, from visa matters to American banking and housing. Also, in the wake of Sept. 11, the University’s general counsel office now has a direct oversight role with respect to visa and tax issues for foreign students and scholars.

“The vice provost will be the principal, University-level spokesperson for the identified goals of internationalization throughout Emory,” Hunter said. “The vice provost will help to coordinate, as necessary, programs across school and department lines, work closely with [International Student and Scholar Programs], the Office of the General Counsel and with other international programs. The vice provost also will work closely with the Office of Institutional Advancement in developing new sources of extramural support.”

In addition to chairing the International Affairs Council, the vice provost also is director of the Halle Institute for Global Learning, created in 1997 to foster interschool collaboration with a focus on faculty education. The institute coordinates annual faculty study trips abroad (including recent trips to Germany and India), sponsors a faculty research seminar and arranges visits to campus by distinguished international figures.

Successful candidates, according to Hunter, should have substantial international experience, including having lived abroad for extended periods; the ability to attract American and international figures in a range of professional fields to Emory for programming; and advanced degrees or other academic credentials. Internal candidates are encouraged, and applicants may send their information to Harriet King, senior vice provost for academic affairs.

To aid in the hunt for a permanent vice provost, Hunter has assembled a search committee, to which Creekmore will serve as consultant. Hunter said he hopes to complete the search by fall semester.