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International pioneer
LAS recognizes political science's Steffen Schmidt with Award for
Distinguished International Service.
- Steffen Schmidt doesn't think he has accomplished much in the area of
international service at Iowa State.
Both the University and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) think
otherwise.
Previously the university professor of political science was recognized
for his international activities with the International Service Award in
1996.
And earlier this month, LAS awarded Schmidt its Award for Distinguished
International Service, which is given annually for outstanding international
service in terms of teaching, research or administration within the United
States or abroad.
Schmidt is the second recipient of the LAS award. Warren Dolphin, university
professor of genetics, development and cell biology, was the first honoree
in 2003.
"LAS can't have this award and not recognize Steffen Schmidt,"
said Michael Whiteford, interim LAS dean.
Whiteford presented Schmidt with the award at the second annual LAS International
Programs Dinner.
The chair of the Department of Political Science agreed with Whiteford.
"Steffen has played an important role in introducing learners of all
ages to the exciting nature of politics and global affairs," said James
McCormick, professor and chair of political science.
In the Department of Political Science, Schmidt has had primary responsibility
for teaching the required seminars for the international relations majors
for the past several years. He has introduced people in all walks of life
to global politics through his textbook, American Government and Politics
Today, his weekly Dr. Politics radio show on WOI, his media involvements
beyond the Iowa State campus, and his Internet course offerings.
Fluent in three languages and with a working knowledge of three others,
Schmidt is the chair of the LAS International Studies Committee, a position
he has held since 1993. He is also a member of Iowa State's International
Studies Program, a member of the LAS International Programs Cabinet, the
chair for the LAS International Area Studies Program Latin America division
and director of the Latin American Studies Program.
His most recent work focuses on coastal policy. He has written numerous
articles in this area and an Internet course offering in this area examined
global coastal and oceanic issues in various areas of the world, including
the Black Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, Belize and the Marshall Islands.
And just this past spring break, he directed a study abroad program to Belize.
Schmidt is also an associate of the Oceanographic Center at Nova University
in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and the Latin American Institute, University of
Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
Around LAS
March 22 to April 4, 2004
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