September 6–13, I joined 17 presidents from across the country on a mission to Cuba sponsored by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). The goal of the trip was to forge connections with Cuban colleges and universities that would support our campuswide international goals. In December, the United States government resumed diplomatic relations with Cuba, thus opening the opportunity for faculty and student exchange with higher education institutions in that country. This was the first college presidential mission since the change in status with our neighbors across the waters from Miami.
We were hosted by the Ministry of Higher Education and engaged in rigorous discussions related to higher education within the United States and within Cuba. I discovered that Cuba had a long history of collaboration with many countries around the world, and our hosts described research collaborations, faculty exchanges, and student exchanges. With the normalization of relations, Cuba will offer an exciting new connection for students and faculty members at Buffalo State. The Cuban presidents (they are called rectors in Cuba) were receptive to our campus’s mission and eager to work with us.
Cultural activities were happening all around us during our visit
A highlight of the trip was a visit to the University of Havana. UH is a beautiful, wide-ranging campus with magnificent buildings surrounded by the historic city of Havana. At UH, we discussed our mutual interests and strengths within the arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences. Our guide was an art historian especially versed in the amazing traditions, music, culture, and art forms of Cuba.
Outside the University of Havana
Our guide sharing some fascinating art history
I also had a delightful visit with the rector of the Polytechnic Institute. She was especially interested in our School of the Professions, particularly our focus on engineering, technology, and manufacturing.
Other highlights included hearing from faculty and administrators across disciplines, visiting the José Martí Center, and visiting the Medical University of Havana. In all my visits, I found the experience to be rewarding, the people gracious, and the campuses eager to connect with Buffalo State.
Attending a writer’s guild meeting
Traditional singers performing
We ended the trip with a formal signing between AASCU campuses and the Ministry of Higher Education, pledging our support and commitment to the development of new linkages. Cuba has 40 colleges and universities, and all rectors were present for a daylong meeting ending with the signing of the agreement.
I will be following up with the provost and deans regarding potential collaborations with Cuban campuses. Such connections with Cuban institutions will enrich the educational experiences of our students and will add to our appreciation of a culture that has been unavailable to United States citizens for the last 50 years. I look forward to developing Cuban-American connections right here in Buffalo. Linkages with Cuba will offer a marvelous opportunity for Buffalo State to connect with members of this amazing country.
And yes, it is true that Cubans love old American cars, and everyone seems to be a mechanic. You see this flash from our past on all the streets of Havana.
