News Story
January 08, 2015
La Roche College to Provide Global Development and Humanitarian Aid Training in 2015
PITTSBURGH, Jan. 8, 2015 – In June 2015 La Roche University will offer its annual Global
Development and Humanitarian Aid Training Program to prepare individuals to
assist in global emergencies.
Designed
for those who want to enter the field of humanitarian and emergency aid, the
program provides specialized instruction in disaster relief response,
sustainable humanitarian aid and global development. Partnering with RedR UK,
one of the world’s premier training organizations, La Roche allows students
from all over the world to gain knowledge from local and regional experts while
participating in introductory training and hands-on simulations. Room and board
at the University’s main campus in the North Hills are included in the cost of
tuition.
- June 1-5: The Essentials
of Humanitarian Aid Training – In
collaboration with RedR UK, this course focuses on the key competencies in the
field, explores case studies and includes emergency response simulations.
- June 1-12: Extended
Training – The extended version of the
program features the five-day course, plus preparation in specialized areas
such as project management, international guidelines for action and focus areas
of humanitarian aid. The extended program includes movie forums, guest
lectures, team activities and visits to humanitarian aid organizations in
Pittsburgh.
- June 8-12: Online – This option is a unique and flexible program offered in collaboration with McGill University. The program includes an online course, “Core Professional Humanitarian Training,” through Humanitarian U. The majority of the online course must be completed prior to the June 8-12 training and simulations. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion in Core Professional Humanitarian Training from Humanitarian U and a Certificate in Global Development and Humanitarian Aid from La Roche University.
Marisol
Valentin, a former program participant, said, “Pittsburgh is really blessed to
have a training program like this – excellent curriculum, top-notch trainers
and affordable. I came into the training expecting to walk out with new and
renewed competencies as a project manager for development aid. I realize now
that what I gained was more than a skill set. I broadened my mind and spirit,
and I gained a new circle of friends committed to fighting for a more just
world.”
Along
with La Roche, only a handful of other colleges and universities offer
introductory training programs in the humanitarian and emergency aid field,
including Harvard, MIT and Fordham University. Introduced by La Roche in 2013,
the Global Development and Humanitarian Aid Training Program is the brainchild
of Jeff Ritter, Ph.D., and Astrid Kersten, Ph.D., two La Roche professors who
have worked in training and development programs overseas.
“In
addition to benefiting current humanitarian aid workers who need or want
certification, the program offers a low-cost alternative for recent graduates
and working professionals who are considering a new career path,” Dr. Kersten
said.
“Upon
completion of the program, participants receive a certificate, referrals to
field experience work and the potential for credit for undergraduate or
graduate coursework.”
Applicants
must hold a college degree or be in the process of earning one to be eligible. Click here to apply by April 20 and to learn more about the program. For more information
please contact Assistant Director of Global Engagement Charlotte Reed at
412-536-1215 or charlotte.reed@laroche.edu.
About La
Roche College: A private liberal
arts college in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers more
than 50 undergraduate and five graduate degree programs, with particular
strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, and health and
medical sciences as well as interior design and graphic design. This
residential college provides a vibrant campus community for more than 1,400 men
and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III
athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La
Roche College embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all
faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to
international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong
learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.
###