Normal, Illinois - The Peoria Area World Affairs Council is proud to announce a partnership with the Varner International Business Institute at Illinois State University!
The initiative was spearheaded by Trevor Nigus, Dr. Barbara Ribbens, & Angela Weck.
According to their website, the mission of the Carson and Iris Varner International Business Institute (VIBI) is to: globalize our students, faculty, and curriculum to meet the global career needs of College of Business students, as well as involving alumni and organizations in outreach programs that both enhance the skills of our students and provide global perspectives to organizations. The Carson and Iris Varner International Business Institute (VIBI) fosters the development of leadership skills, through the International Business Association, IB case competitions, and special international programs and events.
Nigus, now a member of the PAWAC Board of Directors, is a Class of 2020 graduate from the department at ISU. "I am really excited to see the oppurtunities that this partnership will bring for students at ISU. As a student, being able to attend the kind of programs that PAWAC offers was so impactful at broadening my horizons, shaping my journey as an undergrad, & sharpening my skills as a young professional!"
Dr. Ribben also attested - "This is a great oppurtunity for our students. Students like Trevor over the years have really benefited from getting to attend events and programs outside of the classroom. Our students are active on campus participating in organizations like the International Business Association (IBA) or events like the UMSL IB Career Conference and CUIBE business case competitions around the country. Our graduates are more than simply business majors, but rather students who are being prepared for a global workplace in many different fields and industries."
The Peoria Area World Affairs Council has featured several partnerships with local higher education institutions over the years including Illinois Central College, Eureka College, and the University of Illinois. PAWAC is excited to kindle this new relationship with Illinois State University, and be able to share its programming with a wider audience of students across Central Illinois.
