About ISI

An interdisciplinary undergraduate program advancing understanding of global issues, peoples, cultures, and challenges — connecting UNM students to the wider world.

At a Glance

• 154+ students enrolled
• Founded in 2003
• Programs offered: Major & Minor
• Lecture series: 2 per year

Vision: To advance understanding of global issues and other regions of the world — their peoples, cultures, developments, and challenges — including those of strategic and economic interest to the U.S.

Mission: To provide greater opportunities for the advancement and dissemination of knowledge about today's world — serving undergraduates, affiliated faculty, and the broader New Mexico community.

Goal: To pursue broad-based initiatives — coordinating lecture series, reaching out to secondary schools, and supporting international research, study, and exchange programs worldwide.

Program History

2003 — Dr. Melissa Bokovoy founded ISI, unifying previously separate area studies programs. The Fall lecture series launched the same year.

2009 — The International Studies Major was formally approved, with support from associate director Dr. Christine Sauer and the student body.

2010 — First official declared student enrolled in the International Studies Major.

2013 — First administrative assistant hired.

2015 — ISI moved into its current office space (spring). A generous donor funded the Contemporary Jewish Studies Lecture Series, held each fall and spring. First visiting professor hosted (fall).

2018 — First official full-time faculty member hired in spring.