Washington, DC (April 26, 2006) – Today, Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) announced that the U.S. Department of Education’s Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Program has awarded The University of Texas – Pan American, Department of Modern Languages and Literature, a grant for $85,006.00.

The University plans to use the funds to strengthen and reposition Latin American studies by: developing new and innovative courses on Latin America; establishing a new program for Portuguese language acquisition; and, creating two interdisciplinary concentrations within the Latin American studies major – Brazilian studies and Public Health.

“As the world continues to become more and more connected, it has become apparent that we need more educational opportunities for students in international studies and international relations,” said Hinojosa.  “Understanding the United States’ relationship with Latin American countries is important not just in historical terms, but for the future of both regions.  This program provides an exciting, new opportunity for UTPA students and faculty.”

The project involves the collaboration of 18 faculty members, representing 10 different departments and five of UTPA’s six colleges.  In addition, the University will increase the library’s holdings of materials related to Brazil and public health in Latin America, strengthen its relationship with a Brazilian university through faculty visits, initiate a series of lectures by experts from other universities, host four in-service training programs for a total of 60 high school teachers, and implement measures of evaluation for all aspects of the Latin American studies program.

The Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Program provides grants to strengthen and improve undergraduate instruction in international studies and foreign languages.