Dr. Faye Jones, Associate Faculty Researcher in the College of Communication and Information at Florida State University (FSU) embarked on a transformative trip to México City, México October 13-18. Known for her research on STEM pathways and emerging Hispanic Serving Institutions (eHSI), Jones’ visit focused on the importance of fostering global collaboration and expanding educational opportunities.
“Going to México was indeed an honor, and it was a privilege to experience the genuine hospitality of the people of México. Honestly, it was like going deep into what unites us as Latinos – language, singing, dancing, Mariachi, and food,” she said.
During her visit, Jones delivered the keynote address to polytechnical leaders at the final session of an exchange program hosted by FSU’s Learning Systems Institute (LSI), in partnership with Santa Fe Community College (SFCC). The program facilitates exchanges between U.S. and other countries, particularly 2-year colleges, to enhance educational and research opportunities. “Frankly, we need more programs like this at FSU,” said Jones as she reflected on the leadership of Dr. Vilma Fuentes and Dr. Marcella Murillo, who oversee the Community College Administrators Program (CCAP).
Jones emphasized FSU’s role as a premier research institution in broadening Latino representation in STEM and computing, “FSU will continue to make a huge impact on graduate STEM education, especially in CISE (computing, information science, and engineering). I also believe that we’re going to be a major player in getting more participation of Latinos in Florida, nationally, and internationally. Latiné students at FSU will soon have even more opportunities to research topics of interest to them and have an international group of collaborators from Latin America who share in their research interests, innovative ideas, and dreams.”
Dr. Jones was even more reflective when she indicated that “one of the leaders said that to honor the United States – Mexico – Canada (USMCA) Free Trade Agreement, we have to build partnerships that strengthen our abilities to protect North and South America, land that we all share.” Jones highlighted the potential of scientific collaboration between nations and stressed the importance of ensuring access to research education and cultural exchanges for all students.
Beyond the professional aspects, Jones embraced Mexico’s rich culture, enjoying Mariachi music at the Palacio of Bellas Artes, Aztec pyramids at Teotihuacán, and meaningful conversations over authentic Mexican cuisine. “Let’s just face it – we don’t know everything,” she observed, “What my Mexican colleagues gave me was just as valuable as what I gave them.” Go USA! Viva México!