Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) recently welcomed visitors from Brazil’s state of Mato Grosso as part of an effort to expand its international relations. The delegation, which included representatives from Brazil’s government and Mato Grosso universities, visited DMACC Urban Campus to learn more about the college’s operations and offerings. This visit marks the first step in forming a relationship between the state’s universities and exploring potential partnerships for teaching, outreach, and innovation.
Evandro Soares, director of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, expressed his excitement about visiting DMACC and the opportunity to collaborate with the college. He emphasized the importance of forming connections between educational institutions to foster growth and development in various fields. Sen. Wellington Fagundes highlighted Mato Grosso’s significance as a major producer of agricultural products such as cotton, soy, and corn, as well as a leader in ethanol production. Both Soares and Fagundes spoke through a translator, Vinicius Pereira Carvalho, the Federal University of Mato Grosso Postgraduate Coordinator.
During the visit, DMACC President Rob Denson gave a presentation to the delegation, showcasing the college’s programs and reach. He highlighted that 60% of DMACC students use the community college to complete the first two years of a four-year degree, while others participate in vocational or training programs. This model resonated with members of the delegation, who mentioned that many students in Mato Grosso follow a similar path to save costs before transferring to a four-year institution.
The focus on agribusiness emerged as a common ground between Iowa and Mato Grosso, with both regions having a strong emphasis on agriculture. Denson mentioned that DMACC offers robust agriculture programs and expressed interest in collaborating with the delegation on initiatives in this area. He emphasized the importance of international relationships for the college and its students, citing examples of educational opportunities for students to travel abroad in fields like dental hygiene and culinary arts.
While specific plans for collaboration are yet to be determined, Denson mentioned the possibility of an exchange program where students from DMACC visit Mato Grosso for part or all of a semester to experience its culture and education. The delegates expressed keen interest in continuing conversations initiated during their visit, indicating a potential for future partnerships. Denson underscored the significance of global perspectives for DMACC students, noting that every industry, whether advanced manufacturing, agriculture, or information technology, has a global footprint that students should be aware of.
In an interview, Denson emphasized the college’s commitment to preparing students for a global economy and providing them with diverse educational opportunities. He highlighted the interconnectedness of Iowa’s impact on the world and vice versa, underscoring the importance of fostering international partnerships to broaden students’ horizons and enhance their educational experiences. As DMACC continues to engage with international visitors and explore collaboration opportunities, the college remains dedicated to offering students a comprehensive and globally-oriented education.
