FAYETTE, IA (June 1, 2009) -- Anne Parry has been hired as director of Upper Iowa University's ESL (English as a second language) Program, which will begin classes this fall on the Fayette campus.

          Parry has been teaching ESL and English as a foreign language (EFL) to international students in Japan and Korea for the last four years, and served as a faculty member at St. Cloud State University in their ESL programs. She says her experience working with international students, immigrants and refugees from over 60 countries has helped her gain a better understanding of the many challenges that international students have to overcome "before embarking on their dream for international study." 

          Upper Iowa's ESL program will be comprised of four core courses-reading, writing, grammar and communications-and will include an American culture class. Its main goal is to provide academic English preparation for the international student population to ensure successful integration into UIU classes.

          "Equally important, however, is this program will provide deeper insights into many aspects of American life and culture," said DeWayne Frazier, sr. vice president of international programs. "With the many planned activities both in and out of the classroom, our students will have the opportunity to become functioning, respected, and appreciated members of Upper Iowa and the surrounding communities."

          Parry says she hopes to involve the greater-Fayette community in promoting multicultural values and understanding of the growing international population at UIU. Originally from Minnesota, Parry said, "I am excited to return to the beautiful, clean (and snowy) Midwest."

Contact:
Sheila Miller
Director of Public Relations
Work - 563-425-5326
Cell - 319-610-7108
Fax - 563-425-5701
millers@uiu.edu
www.uiu.edu