International agricultural education partnership formed between SFA and Xavier University

NACOGDOCHES, Texas -- Stephen F. Austin State University has signed an international academic agreement with Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan in the Philippines. The partnership, formalized by SFA President Dr. Neal Weaver and XU President Fr. Mars P. Tan, S.J., in September will expand opportunities for students and faculty at both institutions while strengthening cultural and academic ties across the globe.

"This agreement strengthens SFA's commitment to global education by connecting our students and faculty with international peers," Weaver said. "We look forward to the innovative research, cultural exchanges and academic opportunities that will grow out of this partnership."

The five-year agreement is designed to establish a mutually beneficial relationship that promotes academic and cultural cooperation. Together, SFA and XU will pursue joint research and creative projects, organize academic programming such as conferences and seminars, and create new opportunities for both faculty and student exchanges.

Undergraduate and graduate students alike will be able to participate in study abroad experiences. Faculty members will collaborate on teaching, research and publication projects. Both universities plan to share academic resources and materials of mutual interest, expanding access to knowledge and perspectives across continents.

At SFA, the partnership will be coordinated by Dr. Douglas Smith, chair of the Department of Agriculture, who will work alongside Dr. Maria Rosario Mosqueda, dean of the College of Agriculture at XU.

"We are excited to enter into this partnership with Xavier University and to build meaningful connections across disciplines and cultures," Smith said. "This collaboration will allow our students to experience firsthand the richness of agricultural practices, research and innovation in the Philippines while sharing their own expertise from East Texas. The cross connections our students will gain through these exchanges - both academically and personally - will prepare them for leadership in a global agricultural community."

The cooperative agreement takes effect immediately and will remain active for five years, with the possibility of renewal or expansion as both universities continue to develop new initiatives.

Learn more about agriculture at SFA at sfasu.edu/agriculture.