CONTACT: Clara Mae Marcotte

512-593-4143

TAMUK AND VENEZUELAN UNIVERSITY

MAKE JOINT PROGRAM AGREEMENT

KINGSVILLE (September 24, 1998) -- Texas A&M University-Kingsville has signed an agreement with the Universidad Metropolitana, in Caracas, Venezuela, to study and implement joint programs of mutual interest to students, faculty, staff and the community.

Dr. Anarella Cellitti, early childhood education coordinator at Texas A&M-Kingsville, said this will be good for both groups. "Horizons will be expanded and the opportunity for research will be opened, particularly in early childhood education."

Some of the joint programs to be considered could include projects for Texas A&M-Kingsville students in the area of culture, Spanish language and education. Other programs could be projects for Venezuelan students in the areas of culture, English language and education, or projects for both Texas A&M-Kingsville and Venezuelan students in one or a combination of the many programs of leadership skills offered by both institutions. Service projects could be offered in the United States and Venezuela for staff from both institutions as well.

Cellitti said there was the possibility of a combined master's program and student exchange program. "Students will gain cultural and educational experiences," Cellitti said. "They will be able to look at school systems and see the good things being done."

-TAMUK-