»Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ, Rome’s Pontifical University Antonianum sign MOU as Keenum, university leaders visit Italy
Contact: Allison Matthews
STARKVILLE, Miss.—»Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ President Mark E. Keenum and Pontifical University Antonianum Professor Agustin Hernández Vidales, Rector of the university in Rome, Italy, formalized a partnership today [June 23] establishing the framework for joint academic, research and cultural initiatives.
Keenum and other university leaders are traveling this week in the country that hosts multiple meaningful connections with »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ, including study-abroad and research opportunities. Later this week, the »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ delegation will visit the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome and travel to Venice to tour the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, where »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ has a prominent presence at this year’s event with two showcases featuring work within the College of Architecture, Art and Design.
The memorandum of understanding with PUA establishes a collaborative focus on legal and social implications of digital transition, integrative intelligence and cultural exchange between the U.S. and Mediterranean region.
Among key areas of partnership are educational programs and training; joint courses, including master’s degree programs and specialization tracks; internships for students, graduates and professionals; and exchange programs for students, doctoral candidates and faculty.
Joint research projects cover topics such as the ethics of technology, artificial intelligence, poverty, climate change and cultural heritage with a special focus on Franciscans. The MOU aligns the two institutions with emphasis on interdisciplinary and global perspectives. Additional collaborative outreach and cultural activities will include conferences, seminars and events on shared cultural and academic interests, as well as promoting peace, justice, sustainability and dialogue.
Keenum said a key initiative is the establishment of the Observatory for Integrative Intelligence and Data Science at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ. This entity will specialize in research, education and public engagement on topics like digital citizenship, AI ethics and legal implications of digital culture. With »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ Provost David Shaw and PUA Rector Hernández Vidales providing joint leadership, three founding members from each institution are being appointed to the observatory with the option to appoint more experts in the future.
Visit Pontifical University Antonianum online at .
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