2011-2012 Fulbright NEXUS Program Launch
Deputy Assistant Secretary Alina Romanowski Launches 2011-2012 Fulbright NEXUS Program
Fulbright NEXUS Scholars Meet in Buenos Aires, Argentina on May 16, 2011
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic Programs, Alina L. Romanowski, launched the Fulbright Regional Network for Applied Research (NEXUS) Program on May 16, 2011, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The NEXUS initiative brings together 20 applied scholars and mid-career researchers from the United States and nine other Western Hemisphere nations (Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile) for a series of seminars and a Fulbright scholarly exchange experience over the next 12 months. These scholars are focusing on harnessing innovative strategies and technologies to bring about practical solutions to real-world challenges in renewable energy, climate change, public health and sustainable growth. The scholars spent the day presenting their projects on such topics as hydroelectric and wind power, water management, telemedicine kits for rural areas, seismic engineering for bridges and urban planning for seniors, among many others. Their discussions were moderated by the Fulbright NEXUS Distinguished Leader, Dr. Walter E. Baethgen, Director of the Program for Latin America and the Caribbean in the International Research Institute for Climate and Society at Columbia University. The initiative will also expand networks between the United States and the Western Hemisphere in these areas and will form the basis for investment, innovation and entrepreneurship to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity across the region, helping fulfill President's Obama' promise at the Summit of the Americas in 2009.