MLC Stories
VMI Cadets Enjoy Jebena Coffee: A Rich Blend of Culture, Research, and Classroom Engagement
Maj. Jason Schroepfer, assistant professor in the Dept. of Modern Languages and Cultures and director of the National Security Agency funded Arabic STARTALK program credits much of his success in his linguistic field work to jebena, a coffee drink traditionally enjoyed in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Aswan.
Language and Culture Week at VMI
Cadets, faculty, and staff were able to sample dishes that represent the different language taught at VMI and learn about academic offerings as part of “Language and Culture Week at VMI” hosted by the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures.
VMI Takes Part in Model Arab League Debate
Cadets participated in the annual three-day Appalachia Regional Model Arab League debate recently at Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia. MAL helps prepare students to be knowledgeable, well-trained, and effective citizens as well as civic and public affairs activists.
French Films to be Shown at VMI – Public Invited to Attend
The Department of Modern Languages and Cultures and Dean’s Academic Speakers Fund present four French films as part of the 2022-23 Albertine Cinémathèque film series. Albertine Cinémathèque expands access to French cinema and supports film programming at American colleges and universities.
STARTALK Grant Offers Scholarships for Arabic Program
The Department of Modern Languages and Cultures has been awarded a competitive $141 thousand grant called STARTALK for the 2023-2024 academic year. The grant is directly funded by the National Security Agency (NSA) and provides scholarships for for six credit hours of Arabic for 15 students.
VMI Cadet Works with Refugees
Harris Burton ’23 uses her fluency with the French language to personally connect with children from a French speaking African nation.
Support System at VMI Key to Cadet Success
As he looks ahead to completing his time at VMI, Kim hopes future cadets remember to focus on what is important and “find that balance between academics, physical fitness, and free time.”