(December 13, 2013)

French, U.S. governments lend support to Centenary in Paris

SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary in Paris has garnered the support of both the French and American governments following an exploratory trip to Paris by Centenary Dean of Students, Mark Miller and Professor of French, Dr. Dana Kress. The Centenary in Paris initiative will enable all first-year students in 2014 to begin their college experience with immersive study in Paris, France.

"The planning for Centenary in Paris has been extensive," said Miller. "We are committed to our incoming class having an international experience that broadens not only their understanding of the world but also their understanding of themselves."

The American Embassy in Paris has offered their support and will host Centenary students for discussions on French and American relations for the inaugural Centenary in Paris session. The French government has also offered their support, and the Consulate General of France in New Orleans has been instrumental in offering recommendations and connections so that students have a purposeful and meaningful cultural experience.

While in Paris, Miller and Kress also secured housing in Paris for students arriving in August. Bypassing the more traditional American experience, Centenary in Paris students will stay at an international education and exchange facility rather than a hotel.

"We wanted to be sure in choosing accommodations that our students were engaging with other cultures on every level possible. The residence we chose for our incoming freshman is the FIAP - Jean Monnet, a center specializing in hosting international youth," said Kress.

This hostel-styled facility is located in the heart of Paris, and specializes in hosting exhibitions, concerts, and meetings for young people from around the world. It will provide a social atmosphere with opportunities to experience different cultures through interacting with the other international guests.

Arrangements have also been made regarding the trip's academic component. Each student will participate in one of ten classes on varied topics spanning the social sciences, international business, and the humanities. Students can expect a lively spread of experiential learning activities and field studies throughout the duration of their courses including excursions to museums, historical sites, theaters, film locations, and restaurants.

Centenary in Paris is a meaningful way to introduce incoming, first-year students to Centenary and its rich history in Louisiana and long-standing ties to France.

For more information, visit Centenary.edu/Paris.