Abstract: We live in a world where themes are "trending" and become popular for a time. It appears that current culture mores accept the notion that commitments tend to have a finite "shelf life". Partnerships that may be attractive at one time may fade quickly when administrations and urgencies change for an institution. However, the positive impact that a long-term, mutual commitment can have on an institution, university, community and country is extremely valuable and critical for academic and research enhancement.

This roundtable session will discuss the aspects of how a creative long-term strategy for academic activities, community engagement and research commitments can significantly, and positively, establish vibrant opportunities for institutions in both Brazil and the USA. The key is to have a long-standing commitment, and then persevere. 

Intended Outcomes:

1) The roundtable discussion will challenge the audience to think of how creative and strategic perspectives can make an impact for Brazilian-US academic partnerships for their institutions.

2) The discussion seeks to raise awareness of how long-term planning can make a difference in enhancing collaborative partnerships.

3) The session will offer best practices for Brazilian-US partnerships, that benefit partners, and the students, researchers, faculty, institutions and communities related to the partnerships.

The roundtable discussion will include:

Dr. Josiana Barbosa is the chief academic officer and Engineering faculty member, with responsibilities of serving as the Superintendente de Educação e Ciência and Coordenação de Pesquisa da Pró-reitoria at SENAI-CIMATEC. She has raised the visibility of internationalization through her professional, and institution's networks. She recently was the Fulbright Distinguished Faculty Chair to Rice University.

Dr. Luiz Loureiro, Executive Director of Fulbright Brasil, an international leader in global education and exchange, will describe best practices and opportunities, for enhancing Brazil-US research and mobility cooperations. The long-commitment of the Fulbright program internationally, and particularly the tremendous high-level distinction of the Fulbright Brasil program, will describe trends which will inspire further alliances.

Dr. Adria Baker, who is a leader in international education for 40 years, winning recognition for her former institution regarding Brazilian research collaborations and partnerships. She serves on the BRATECC Advisory Board, is a Fulbrighter and founder of GEMS, LLC.

The lively discussion will encourage colleagues to comment on best practices for collaborations on academic, research, campus activities and community engagement that create positive binational impact. The session seeks to inspire, as well as discuss obstacles, for deeper loyalty for long-term commitments between Brazil and the USA. This matters now, and for future binational relationships.