Shannan Mattiace, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Political Science
Chair, International Studies Program
David Valentine ’10
YOGC Proposal Co-Author
I graduated from Allegheny in May of 2010 with a major in English (creative writing) and minors in chemistry and psychology. While at Allegheny, I participated in a number of organizations and efforts, ranging from the Civic Engagement Council to the Center for Economic and Environmental Development, and from Residence Life to Habitat for Humanity. I was one of the co-authors of the proposal for the Year of Global Citizenship and thus was involved with the effort from the beginning. Now, having graduated, I look forward to seeing the work continued and expanded by friends and peers. In formulating the Year of Global Citizenship, I wanted to push Allegheny into today’s more globalized, culturally mixed, and interdependent society and to help the students become more aware of the responsibilities that come with being a “global citizen.” Furthermore, I wanted to allow the school community—students, faculty, staff, and alumni—to define this term for themselves and create a culture at Allegheny that values citizenship both on the local and global levels.
Edayatu Lamptey ’10
Student Summer Intern
I studied political science and decided to become involved in the Year of Global Citizenship because I am interested in international development issues. I was introduced to this year’s theme by Dave Valentine and joined because I saw the need for internationalization on campus. I also saw a need for global awareness and an awareness of how local and global issues are interconnected. Other activities I was involved in as an Allegheny student include community service, the International Club, Allegheny Christian Outreach, and the Red Cross.
Jenny Kawata
Director, International Programs and Services, ACCEL
Marin Ping ’10
I am an international studies (Latin America) and Spanish double major who would love to continue in the field of Latin American studies. After traveling on the 2007 Experiential Learning trip to Nicaragua, I became a member and student administrator of Gators Give Back. The student organization, formed by the EL members, connects local and international communities by hosting a sustainable rummage sale in Meadville that benefits Project Chacocente in Tipitapa, Nicaragua. I have also had the good fortune of accompanying ACCEL staff on a fact-finding mission in Nicaragua concerning public health organizations. Last year, I co-founded Advocating Global Health and Development, a student organization that seeks to accomplish internationally minded service projects. I would say all the themes that connote “Global Citizenship” have been embodied in my academic and extracurricular work.
From our many conversations as a steering committee, I believe that our sincerest hope for this year’s theme is for everyone to act upon international experiences or interests and bring forth ideas to the campus community at large on how to become more involved. Ultimately, the “internationalization” of campus is what we endeavor to achieve, and it will take the efforts of students, faculty, and staff alike.
Shane Downing ’11
I am an environmental science major with minors in religious studies and biology. Currently, I have the honor of serving as the president of Allegheny Student Government. Over my time here at Allegheny, I’ve been involved with a number of student groups and organizations. I became involved with the Year of Global Citizenship out of my interests in traveling and learning about other cultures. I have studied abroad and then interned abroad for the past seven months to try to figure out what it means to be a global citizen. It is my hope that, by the end of the year, our community will have a better understanding and appreciation for the surrounding global community.
Jamie Havens ’11
I am currently a senior at Allegheny College majoring in political science with a minor in Spanish. I am continuing to work on my proficiency in Spanish following a semester abroad in Seville, Spain. My Senior Project will focus on the topic of illegal immigration. I am heavily involved on campus, serving as the vice president of Allegheny Student Government, a member of the Senior Gift committee, and a student representative on the Alumni/Annual Giving Outreach and Participation Subcommittee. I am also a sister of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. Because of my experience abroad and involvement on campus, I was asked to serve on the Year of Global Citizenship steering committee to bring a new perspective to the group. Through the committee, I hope to help students become more aware of their ability to be involved with a global initiative at a local level.
Matthew Reilly ’11
