Southwestern University has entered into a partnership with Mexico City’s Universidad de la Libertad (UL) to promote the exchange of students and scholars. As part of the international collaboration, each institution will participate in a one-for-one student exchange beginning this fall.
Led by President Jorge Diaz Cuervo, a 1990 graduate of Southwestern, UL is widely recognized throughout Mexico for training innovative and successful entrepreneurs and agents of change who have made Mexico a more free, competitive, prosperous, and inclusive country. UL was established by Ricardo B. Salinas Pliego, the founder and president of Grupo Salinas, a conglomerate that spans the financial services, telecommunications, media, and retail sectors.
“This is not just another agreement, it is a true partnership among institutions that share values and visions; among communities that understand education as a means to liberate from dogmas, prejudices, and fears; among individuals willing to act, succeed, and inspire,” Diaz Cuervo said.
The partnership was born out of a mutual commitment by SU and UL to promote and expand international understanding, development, and friendship. The two liberal arts institutions each prioritize supporting educational, professional, and intercultural activities and projects among their respective students, faculty, and staff.
As part of the agreement, both universities will facilitate the process to identify students to participate in the exchange program. The partnership will begin with SU and UL students studying at each other’s respective campuses this fall. Students must have completed at least one year of undergraduate study to be eligible to participate. SU and UL will assist participating students with obtaining proper immigration documents and will help guide students through each nation’s immigration procedures.
After every academic year, leaders from both universities will meet to discuss the program and seek ways to further improve the student experience. Southwestern and Universidad de la Libertad will also explore future educational collaborations, such as short-term study tours and faculty and staff exchanges.
More information about the new partnership will be shared in the coming months.
