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Demetriou Forges Connections in France Through Fulbright Program

Associate Provost Cynthia Demetriou returns from Fulbright program with expanded knowledge of the French higher education system and global approaches to enrollment and student success.

Cynthia Demetriou, associate provost for Student Engagement, Enrollment, and Retention (SEER) at UNCW.
Cynthia Demetriou, associate provost for Student Engagement, Enrollment, and Retention (SEER) at UNCW.

Cynthia Demetriou, associate provost for Student Engagement, Enrollment, and Retention (SEER) at UNCW, represented UNCW in France as one of 14 U.S. higher education administrators selected as Fulbright U.S. Scholars. The cohort participated in a two-week Fulbright seminar in the U.S.-France International Education Administrators Program. During visits to Caen, Le Havre and Paris, the Fulbright Scholars explored the French higher education system, culture and society. In addition to meeting with French administrators and officials, participants forged connections within their American cohort, which included chancellors, deans, enrollment officers, directors of study abroad programs and directors of student affairs.

“The Fulbright U.S. Scholars Program provided me with a deeper understanding of global approaches to higher education and expanded my perspective on the differences in enrollment and retention strategies,” said Demetriou. “It was just as inspiring to learn about my American colleagues and their institutions, as it was to learn about the international colleges and universities.”

The itinerary featured campus visits, information sessions and opportunities to observe French professors in their classrooms. The group also met with government officials to discuss practices and strategies for how French universities work to support a wide range of student populations, including displaced and refugee students, and the unique needs of each population. Together, the group brainstormed approaches to remove barriers to education for all students, including strategies for first-generation students and students from low-income families. Within these creative sessions, ideas flowed freely as the group discussed benefits and challenges for funding opportunities, innovative programming, international partnerships and more.

Demetriou also connected with peers to discuss educational access challenges, such as the affordability of a four-year degree. She valued the opportunity to highlight how UNCW offers a rich campus experience at a lower cost in North Carolina, both within the state and when compared to big cities that international students are often more familiar with, such as New York City and Los Angeles.

Demetriou plans to remain in contact with members of the Fulbright program. She looks forward to integrating the experience gained into her work as associate provost by exploring innovative ideas and leveraging new connections to enhance support for the success of all students.

“UNCW is proud to have supported Dr. Demetriou’s participation in the Fulbright program,” said James J. Winebrake, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “This prestigious opportunity not only enhances her work but also strengthens our university’s connections with international partners. I look forward to the innovative ideas and collaborations that will emerge from this enriching experience, as she uses her insights in our ongoing, long-term efforts to foster student success and academic excellence.”

As the associate provost for SEER and its 10 reporting units, Demetriou facilitates strategies and programming for student recruitment, admissions, enrollment, retention and degree completion. She has conducted research pertaining to student success and instructional practice.  

The Fulbright Scholar Award fellowship is an extension of the world-renowned Fulbright Program— an esteemed government-sponsored academic program promoting international exchange. Fulbright’s aim is to enhance strong and meaningful relationships and understanding between people of different countries.

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At the École nationale supérieure d'ingénieurs de Caen & Centre de Recherche, (National Graduate School of Engineering & Research Center) in Caen, France, the Fulbright program cohort toured the campus, met with students and faculty, and discussed potential collaborations with U.S. institutions.

 


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