Shepherd University hosted the International Studies Association-South’s conference October 14-15. Pictured are (front row, l. to r.) Dr. T.V. Paul, a political science professor at McGill University and 2016-2017 International Studies Association president; William Wheatley, a political science major from Harpers Ferry; Devin Spinks, a global studies major from Summersville; and Sarah Muskett, a global studies major from Inwood; (back row) Casey Feezle, a political science major from Romney; Dr. Joseph Robbins, associate professor of political science and chair of the Department of Political Science; and Dr. Aart Holtslag, assistant professor of political science and conference organizer.
Shepherd University hosted the annual conference and meeting of the International Studies Association-South (ISA South), during which Dr. Aart Holtslag, assistant professor of political science and director of global studies, was elected the organization’s 2017 president. The October 14-15 conference, titled Global Aspects of Civil War: Impact and Consequences, attracted about 90 scholars who were primarily from the southern region of the country.
“The ISA South conference was a perfect fit within Shepherd’s internationalization process and a fitting event to launch the global studies major,” Holtslag said. “The conference was a way to be acknowledged as a school where international issues and global studies are valued and pursued. One should see my election as the president for the ISA southern regional chapter as a further recognition of the strides Shepherd is making in the field of international studies.”
Shepherd began offering a global studies major this semester. It is an interdisciplinary program with four concentrations—global governance and peace, global economics and development, global environment, and global culture and history.
Holtslag said as ISA South president he will be able to set policies and determine direction for the organization. He will also have access to networks and meetings worldwide, which will enhance Shepherd’s profile nationally and internationally.
“This will give Shepherd the recognition it deserves as a school on the rise,” Holtslag said. “Name recognition might bring in new students, and contacts with other universities and faculty will enhance the ability of the university to fulfill its mission.”
The keynote speaker at the conference was T.V. Paul, the president of the International Studies Association, ISA South’s parent organization. Paul, James McGill Professor of International Relations at McGill University in Toronto, Canada, gave a talk titled “Accommodating Rising Powers: Past, Present, and Future.”
Several Shepherd students volunteered to help run the conference. Holtslag said they were also able to attend panels which relate directly to their field of study. Students who volunteered were Will Wheatley and Michelle Reid, Harpers Ferry; Sarah Muskett and Daniela Powers, Inwood; Devin Spinks, Summersville; and Casey Feezle, Romney.
“The conference went extremely well, and we have received nothing but praise from the participants,” Holtslag said. “People recognized the potential of the university, admired our campus, enjoyed the program, and loved the town.”