The University of Louisiana at Monroe, joined by the other institutions in the University of Louisiana System, signed an agreement with The Pôle Universitaire Léonard de Vinciin France that will strengthen higher education links between France and Louisiana.

The Memorandum of Understanding between the UL System and the Paris institution creates a partnership that will allow students to attend college abroad for the same tuition they pay at home.

The partnership includes students in business, engineering, technology, computer science and visual arts and generally covers the:

• Reciprocal exchange of faculty, staff and students
• Development of international student programs, hosting of visiting scholars and study tours/summer sessions
• Organization of joint academic and scientific activities such as courses, conferences, seminars, symposia or lectures
• Enrollment of highly qualified students in undergraduate and/or graduate studies
• Development of textbooks, journal articles, or other scholarly publications

The Agreement was signed last week by University of Louisiana System President Randy Moffett and Assistant General Director of The Pôle Universitaire Léonard de Vinci Philippe Dubost.

Dr. Cofer stands with (from left to right) Northwestern State University President Randy Webb, French Consul General Olivier Brochenin, Pôle Universitaire Léonard De Vinci Associate General Director Philippe Dubost, and UL System President Randy Moffett during the reception on Sept. 18 at the Consul General’s home in New Orleans.

ULM currently offers several global opportunities, including Hong Kong, Scotland, Paris, Canada, London, Dallas, New York and New Orleans; this new opportunity in France will only increase the professional possibilities for ULM students, said President James Cofer.

"In the modern day, the world is shrinking. Our graduates are conducting business by interacting with people all over the world, and this partnership with France is the perfect opportunity to introduce them to our society's ever-evolving workplace."

O. Brochenin, Consul General of France in New Orleans, said, "This agreement is a great opportunity for the entire university system to develop its international dimension."




Photo courtesy University of Louisiana System