PROMOTING GLOBAL INTERACTION: GSA’S DISTINGUISHED INTERNATIONAL LECTURE PROGRAM AND THE FUTURE

The Geological Society of America (GSA) sponsors the Distinguished International Lecture Tour to assist the goal of global knowledge-sharing and networking among geoscientists. Under the guidance of the GSA International Section, in just two years, 75 lectures have already been delivered to 11 countries in Europe (England, Scotland, Finland, Sweden, The Netherlands, Italy, Israel, Germany, France, Spain and Turkey), 3 countries in Asia (India, Japan, and China) and 2 countries “down under” (Australia and New Zealand). Many foreign institutions and societies, and gracious colleagues and hosts supported this effort. The tremendous global cooperation is a sign of how our science connects us into a close community.

GSA can be an outreach leader by providing ambassadors for global interactions. More sustained international efforts will foster three important outcomes.

1. Raise STEM awareness and science literacy: International visits raises awareness with administrators at host institutions and provides opportunities to share best practices on increasing earth science literacy worldwide.
2. Increase global cooperation: Current and future issues of sustainability require global collaboration and cooperation. Diverse perspectives will contribute to the best solutions.
3. Encourage and train the next generation: Young scientists and students are the strongest growing segment of professional societies. It is important to inspire this group while exposing them to the breadth of Earth science, as passionate and knowledgeable students are the hope of our future.

Similarly, a potential growth area for GSA lies in international memberships. A strong GSA lecture program and blog provides our society a global perspective and a record of our interactions with international peers. The program can blossom to promote more country partnerships with sister societies while building strong bridges across geographic and cultural boundaries.