(May 17, 2013)

Centenary students explore the world using Passport Points

SHREVEPORT, LA — Eighty-nine percent of the Centenary students studying abroad this summer are taking advantage of Passport Points they earned throughout the year by attending campus and community events.

"Part of Centenary's educational mission is to enhance students' self-knowledge and social awareness through intercultural engagement," said Dr. Edward Ragan, Director of Educational Outreach. "One of our main goals in establishing Passport Points was to make international travel a possibility for any student, regardless of income or financial ability. The Passport Points program coupled with our great international travel opportunities truly allows students to have a transformative college experience."

Beginning in Fall 2012, students were able to accumulate points by attending approved cultural enrichment programming throughout the school year. At the end of each year, students can redeem these points to offset travel expenses related to approved international travel opportunities. Over 4 years of undergraduate enrollment, students may earn up to $2,000 in credits.

"Centenary has equipped me with the ability to community-build and impact youth in need through organizations such as the Big Event and the Christian Leadership Center," said recent graduate Chad Nelson '13. "Now, through the Passport Points program, Centenary is allowing me to take these skills and use them to benefit my wider international community."

Nelson is redeeming his points to join a local Shreveport group that will be traveling to Russia to engage in mission work. While in Russia, he will help run Vacation Bible Schools for children with special needs, do landscaping work, and help construct churches.

This summer, the Centenary College Choir returns to Italy where they will perform in Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. The last time the Choir performed in Italy was 1985.

Through Centenary's May Module program, short courses focused on specialized topics, students are immersing themselves in the cultures of Australia, France, and Greece. Past Centenary international experience destinations have included India, Spain, Russia, Nicaragua, and China.