The University of Nebraska’s American Exchange Center is offering global engagement opportunities to faculty and students.

Opened in April 2012, the American Exchange Center is located at Xi’an Jiaotong University in Xi’an, China. Led by Ian Newman, American deputy director of the center and professor of educational psychology, the American Exchange Center aims to introduce Chinese students and faculty to United States history, law, medicine, art, culture and government. It is also designed to strengthen Nebraska’s collaborations within China.

“We are a University of Nebraska outpost right in the middle of China,” Newman said. “A lot of what we do is translating our culture and language to students at Xi’an Jiaotong. But, the AEC also has opportunities for University of Nebraska faculty and students.”

Programming available to NU students includes working as English tutors while studying at Xi’an Jiaotong University and attending summer school.

Plans for summer school opportunities are being developed and will be announced.

Faculty traveling to China can participate in the American Exchange Center’s “Opportunity Visitors” program. Through the program, NU faculty in China can come to Xi’an Jiaotong to give a presentation at the AEC. Newman said faculty who participate receive support for the cost of internal travel to Xi’an and accommodation for three days.

Faculty are also invited to work through the AEC to create research partnerships and long-term relationships with colleagues at Xi’an Jiaotong University.

Newman said the center can work with UNL’s Education Abroad to help faculty build study abroad opportunities based at Xi’an Jiaotong.

“We can act as a brokerage house for faculty looking for a place in China to explore or seeking to establish research interests,” Newman said. “We are willing to assist any faculty member or student wanting to do something in Xi’an.

“Our ultimate goal is to facilitate exchange.”

Newman and Rebecca McQuillen, assistant to the deputy director of the AEC, are overseeing the creation of a website for the center. Once complete, the website will include detailed information about programs and international opportunities offered.

Faculty and students interested in learning more about the American Exchange Center opportunities should contact Newman at inewman1@unl.edu.