Siena has had a longstanding working relationship with FAE Centro Universitário, a Franciscan university in Curitiba, Brazil. Their president recently paid a visit to Siena’s campus to talk business – and have a party.
Jorge Apóstolos Siarcos is the rector of FAE, or what an American college would call a president. On November 13 he came to Siena to meet with President Chuck Seifert, Ph.D. and School of Business leaders to discuss educational strategy for the partnership.
“My visit to Siena was exceptionally fruitful. I could so easily see how the values practiced by both institutions are closely aligned through the Franciscan tradition,” said Siarcos. “Every FAE student commented to me about how much they feel at home at Siena, and I felt that myself during my time there. A highlight of the visit was a party in my honor, hosted by students. FAE is grateful for the strength of our partnership, and especially grateful for how Siena welcomes and treats our students.”
Siena’s partnership with FAE has seen more than 80 Brazilians come to upstate New York to complete either a dual degree or another one of the several special programs offered. Erika Cunha ’24 said being at Siena has been an enriching and transformative experience.
“The academic environment has provided me with invaluable learning opportunities, allowing me to explore new paths of knowledge and expand my horizons,” said the marketing major. “The warmth and hospitality exhibited by the community have made me feel not only welcomed but also embraced in a brilliant atmosphere conducive to personal and intellectual growth. Without any doubt, choosing Siena College has proven to be the best decision of my life thus far. Can't wait to keep exploring and learning new things here!”
Arthur Lourenço Gomes ’24 said his finance studies here have been a “game changer” for his future career.
“The learning system and the way classes are taught have been very valuable not only for my academic development, but also for my personal growth,” he said. “Siena has a great environment for international students, making us feel comfortable and allowing us to take advantage of the classes and knowledge passed on by the professor, even with the language barrier. I would definitely encourage other people to join this community.”
The feeling is mutual for those Siena students who have traveled to Brazil to study at FAE. Angie Tario Corchado '15, assistant director of international student services, participated in a two-week FAE study tour her senior year.
“I will forever cherish the experience,” she said. “We met many FAE students, faculty, and staff and they were all extremely welcoming and kind! As soon as we got there, they threw a party for us so we could join in celebrating one of the school’s anniversaries. It was filled with Brazilian music and delicious treats! It was so enriching to be immersed in such a rich culture through our Brazilian culture themed classes, our daily interactions in their community, and excursions.”
Corchado’s connection with Brazil did not end there. The trip influenced her decision to complete an ETA Fulbright grant in Brazil a year later, which she called “a life changing experience.” I can't say enough good things about FAE and that trip! And now, years later, it is a joy to work with FAE as a partner intuition in my role here at Siena!
Br. Brian Belanger, O.F.M., Ph.D., coordinates the partnership between Siena and FAE, which are roughly the same size and are dedicated to the same Franciscan mission.
“We’re very grateful for Rector Siarcos’ visit to Siena,” said Br. Brian. “It was an opportunity for us to solidify and affirm our partnership FAE and discover ways to expand our joint programming.”
Siarcos last visited Siena more than 15 years ago. FAE administrators regularly come to campus, including to the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities conference held here in June.
Br. Brian said that because of the working relationship that goes back decades, “Siena has gained recognition and momentum in Brazil. Having a degree from an American university speaks volumes on the world stage and opens a lot of doors for the students personally and professionally.”
“For me, this partnership is a living example of the value and relevance of the Franciscan ethos,” he said. “It brings people together across cultures and borders.”
He noted that the Brazilian students who come to Siena “display optimism and a love for life.”
“They have deep sense of family and joy, which I think Siena students benefit from greatly.”