Maintaining Global Dialogue

Newsletter of UCF Global Perspectives and International Initiatives

Issue 31 – Spring 2025

GPII News

The Effectiveness of Foreign Aid in Conflict Resolution and Crisis Management: Challenges, Opportunities, and Lessons Learned

UCF Global Perspectives and International Initiatives (GPII) recently welcomed a full-house audience for a timely discussion on the evolving role of U.S. foreign aid in conflict and crisis settings. The event hosted Owen Kirby, International Republican Institute Regional Director for North Africa and Middle East (MENA) and a Former Director of the Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI), who had firsthand experience in regions such as Afghanistan, Syria, and other countries in the Middle East. Kirby shared his insights into complexities of delivering aid and supporting peace building efforts

Kirby explained a “not every problem is a nail that requires military involvement” perspective. He emphasized how soft power tools like diplomacy, development assistance, and cultural engagement not only complement military efforts in conflict zones but also influence conflict resolution, promote regional stability, and support long-term development. The conversation also emphasized the importance of aligning U.S. foreign aid programs with holistic approaches engaging local actors to ensure that aid efforts are responsive to community needs, locally informed, and built for long-term sustainability.

Drawing on practical insights and real-world experience, the event offered a nuanced perspective on the evolving role of foreign aid in a shifting global context. It served as a valuable platform for dialogue on aligning policy, practice, and local realities in complex conflict settings.

Congress to Campus: Civil Dialogue and Bipartisanship in Practice

Congressman Dennis Ross engaging with students and faculty

UCF Global Perspectives and International Initiatives (GPII) was honored to host a delegation of former U.S. Members of Congress through the Congress to Campus Program. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) and Congressman Dennis Ross (R-FL) visited UCF and participated in a series of campus-wide activities including classroom visits, student meetups, and open forums.

Engaging with students and faculty through open discussions, they exemplified the power of civil discourse and bipartisan cooperation in navigating conflicts. Their presence served as a powerful reminder that respectful conversation and principled disagreement are essential tools for resolving disputes, especially in today’s polarized world.

Their visit was a timely reminder that open dialogue and cooperation are essential not only for effective governance at home but for creating groundwork for sustainable peacebuilding globally.

The Power of AI Visuals: Reimagining Peace and Human Connection

Dr. Zeynep Arda hosting an in-person workshop

UCF Global Perspectives and International Initiatives (GPII) recently hosted The Power of AI Visuals: Reimagining Peace and Human Connection, an in-person workshop led by Dr. Zeynep Arda. The event showcased GPII’s commitment to harnessing emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, as powerful tools for conflict transformation and peacebuilding.

Centered around the use of Artificial Intelligence in visual arts, the workshop encouraged participants to reflect on their personal visions of peace and translate them into compelling AI-generated visuals. Through creative exercises, students and faculty engaged AI not just as a technology, but as a medium for storytelling, empathy, and dialogue.

By blending art, innovation, and human connection, the workshop embodied GPII’s vision of transforming how we think about peace, using AI to reframe conflict and inspire change..

Round Table Discussion Invitation: Shifting Power Dynamics and Geopolitics in the South Caucasus

UCF Global Perspectives and International Initiatives (GPII) was privileged to hold a virtual roundtable discussion between faculty and students from the University of Central Florida and Sokhumi State University in Tbilisi, Georgia. The dialogue provided a rich platform for participants to exchange perspectives on state security, regional conflict, and the evolving geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus.

The roundtable featured a special guest, Dr. Zurab Khonelidze—Rector of Sokhumi State University and author of Georgian Paradigm of Peace in Closing Analyses. Dr. Khonelidze offered insightful commentary on the nature of “frozen” conflicts and contributed a compelling explanation of his concept of University Diplomacy. Dr. Khonelidze’s vision of University Diplomacy revolves around the idea that universities can serve as hubs for non-governmental diplomacy, connecting both state and non-state actors through the values of humanism, education, scientific inquiry, and youth engagement. As neutral spaces for dialogue and knowledge exchange, universities have the potential to lead innovative approaches to conflict transformation, fostering cross-border collaboration and understanding.

Panelists engaged in a wide-ranging conversation, exploring how shifting global power dynamics—from a unipolar to a multipolar world—are reshaping alliances and opening new avenues for peace in conflict-prone regions. They also examined how lessons from other global conflicts, including ongoing unrest in the Middle East, might inform strategies for peacebuilding in the South Caucasus.

This roundtable marked another step in building bridges between institutions, cultures, and future leaders, underscoring the vital role academia generally and UCF specifically can play in shaping a more interconnected world.

Dr. Fernando I. Rivera Recognized at the Celebration of Our Hispanic Leaders

Dr. Fernando I. Rivera recognized by Maxwell Alejandro

UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub (PRRH) Director, Dr. Fernando I. Rivera, was recognized by the Office of Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost at the Celebration of Our Hispanic Leaders. This event was dedicated to recognizing the exceptional contributions of individuals like Dr. Rivera, who have made a profound impact on the Hispanic community through leadership and advocacy.

UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub at the Capital

Dr. Fernando I. Rivera, the UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub (PRRH) Director; Dr. Sara Belligoni, PRRH Postdoctoral scholar; and UCF students took part in the discussions during the 2025 Puerto Rico Day at the Capitol, held on March 10-11 in Tallahassee, Florida. This event, organized by State Representatives Johanna López (D-Orlando, Florida House District 43) and Yvette Benaroch (R-Marco Island, Florida House District 81), brought together lawmakers, educators, and community leaders to engage on important issues affecting the Puerto Rican communities in Florida.

The valuable research conducted by UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub (PRRH) including the 2024 survey results served as a critical resource in informing the event's agenda and guiding the discussion which focused on key socioeconomic and political issues facing Puerto Ricans in the state. This event provided UCF students with a unique opportunity to witness the real-world impact of research, while offering valuable networking opportunities with representatives and community members.

UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub Strengthens Ties with Hawaii in Disaster Management Collaboration

UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub with Hawaii

The UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub's team recently traveled to Honolulu, Hawaii, to foster greater collaboration and explore shared challenges faced by island states in disaster management. During their visit, Dr. Fernando I. Rivera, the UCF Puerto Rico Research Hub (PRRH) Director; Dr. Sara Belligoni, PRRH Postdoctoral scholar engaged with key local stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and future partnerships.

The team met with representatives from several prestigious organizations, including the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, Hawai’i Sea Grant, the Native Hawaiian Center of Excellence, Vibrant Hawai’i, the National Disaster Preparedness Training Center, and the City of Honolulu’s Resilience Office. These meetings underscored the importance of cross-island cooperation in addressing the unique vulnerabilities and challenges posed by natural disasters.

This visit marks a significant step in the Puerto Rico Research Hub’s ongoing efforts to expand UCF footprints and build a network of support and expertise in disaster resilience, with the goal of fostering future collaborations between the islands.

UCF's 17th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Day Conference

GPII’s Karen Solla had the privilege of attending the 17th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Day Conference at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. Hosted by the UCF Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery (HTSM Center), the event brought together experts, advocates, and community leaders for critical discussions on combating human trafficking.

The conference featured powerful presentations including The Role of Artificial Intelligence & Big Tech and Preventing Child Recruitment

& Grooming.

Attendees also participated in the Red Sand Project, an interactive art installation highlighting the vulnerabilities that contribute to human trafficking and exploitation.

This event served as a vital reminder of the ongoing fight against human trafficking and the importance of education, prevention, and collaboration in addressing this global issue.

Dr. Mirvate El Jerdi Appointed to Global Women of Impact Advisory Board

Dr. Mirvate El Jerdi with Women of Impact Advisory Board

In a memorable evening at Orlando City Hall, Dr. Mirvate El Jerdi, GPII Assistant Director for Public relations was officially appointed to the Advisory Board of Global Women of Impact (GWOI), an organization committed to bridging cultural gaps and uniting women of all backgrounds to create meaningful change in their communities. The appointment was part of GWOI’s 2025–2026 Board Installation Ceremony, an event that celebrated unity, inclusion, and the power of collective impact.

The swearing-in ceremony was led by the Honorable Judge Gisela Laurent of the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.

“It is incredibly humbling and inspiring to join such a distinguished group of women who are leading visionary projects and amplifying diverse voices,” said Dr. El Jerdi. “I look forward to supporting GWOI’s mission alongside my fellow advisory board members.”

Founded by Mona L. Cherkaoui, Global Women of Impact fosters a multicultural environment where women from diverse backgrounds are honored, empowered, and celebrated for their leadership. Through collaboration, education, and action, the organization builds a global community of women committed to creating lasting change for generations to come.

GPII Brings Insightful Speakers of LIFE at UCF

This spring, GPII continued its partnership with the Learning Institute for Elders (LIFE) at UCF, bringing in experts and prominent guest speakers to address pertinent and thought-provoking topics.

Dr. Mehmet Gurses kicked off the series, delivering an engaging talk on the Kurdish diaspora and the challenges of fostering cooperation in the Middle East. He shared captivating anecdotes that highlighted the Kurdish people’s significance in the region and explored how generations of leadership have shaped their history. Dr. Gurses provided a nuanced view of the geopolitical dynamics influencing Kurdish communities, addressing their historical struggles and ongoing pursuit of political recognition. His discussion also touched on the role of external powers and how shifting alliances continue to impact the future of Kurdish affairs.

Next, Owen Kirby, Regional Director for North Africa and the Middle East at the International Republican Institute, offered a valuable perspective on the intricacies of foreign aid in conflict zones. A respected expert on the Middle East, he discussed the role of U.S. soft power in promoting regional stability and shared insights on the challenges of navigating aid in politically sensitive environments.

Additionally, Dr. Ted Reynolds, Director of the Terrorism Studies Program at UCF GPII, also spoke at LIFE at UCF, discussing the potential benefits and risks of artificial intelligence. His presentation examined AI’s applications in civilian life, the military, and the medical field, raising important questions about its role in modern society.

Capping off the speaker series, Dr. Hakan Ozoglu, Director of the Middle Eastern Studies Program at UCF, explored the question “What is the Middle East?” In his presentation, he delved into the origins of the term, its historical context, and its significance to the British Empire, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the region’s past and its ongoing importance on the world stage.

These events offered attendees the opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the topics discussed. GPII continues to enhance the LIFE at UCF community with engaging conversations on some of today’s most important issues.

Global Perspectives TV Show on WUCF

Global Perspectives Hosts Jorge Colón, Lead Media Counsel at CNN Asia Pacific, CNNE (Spanish), and CNN Sports

WUCF TV's Global Perspectives Hosts Jorge Colón

Katie Coronado, filling in for David Dumke, talks with Jorge Colón, Lead Media Counsel at CNN Asia Pacific, CNNE (Spanish), and CNN Sports. With over 20 years of experience in the Media & Entertainment industry, Colón shares insights on the state of media both in the U.S. and globally. He previously served as Senior Media Counsel at NBC Universal and Deputy General Counsel for American Media, Inc.

Start Watching

Global Perspectives Hosts Ambassador David Welch

In this episode, Ambassador David Welch, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, reflects on his career and explores the importance of civic engagement in global affairs, the need to look beyond borders, and how U.S. foreign policy has evolved over time. He also offers insights into the future direction of U.S. diplomacy on the world stage. Ambassador Welch played a pivotal role in signing the U.S.-Libya Comprehensive Claims Settlement Agreement in 2008, which restored full diplomatic and commercial relations between the

two nations.

Start Watching

Podcasts

GPII Interns Discuss the Impact of the Fullbright Program with Dr. Amr Elbanhawy

GPII Interns Discussion with Dr. Amr Elbanhawy

In this podcast with Susana El Souki El Assal and Shivram Sundar, Dr. Amr Elbanhawy, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Ain Shams University in Egypt and Fulbright Fellow at MIT, shared his insights on the transformative role of the Fulbright Program on his academic career and international research initiatives.

Dr. Elbanhawy discussed how the prestigious program has shaped his work, facilitating groundbreaking research and fostering global collaborations. The conversation highlighted the essential role of educational exchange in advancing innovation, bridging cultural divides, and enhancing academic partnerships across borders.

Start Listening