Annual event brings together scholars to discuss transformative education
VIGO, SPAIN (October 9, 2023) – The Society of Transnational Academic Researchers (STAR) Scholars Network held its 2023 Global Conference at the University of Vigo in Spain on October 9-10. This year’s theme was “Transformative Education for an Interconnected and Equitable World.”
The prestigious conference was hosted in partnership with the University of Vigo’s UNESCO Chair. Over 200 participants from dozens of countries convened both online and in person at Vigo’s historic Sede Afundacion building.
In her opening remarks, University of Vigo Vice Chancellor for International Affairs Prof. Maribel del Pozo highlighted this year’s theme and the transformative power of education. STAR Network Senior Executive Vice President Prof. Krishna Bista discussed the network’s mission to drive social change through research, advocacy and entrepreneurship.
A highlight of the event was the Prof. A. Noam Chomsky Global Connections Awards ceremony, honoring standout scholars. Recipients of this year’s awards were:
- Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings, North Star Medal of Lifetime Achievement
- Dr. Jasvir Kaur Nachatar Singh, Shining Star Achievement in Research Award
- Dr. CindyAnn Rose-Redwood, Shining Star Achievement in Research Award
- Dr. Minh Cuong Duong, Rising Star Emerging Scholar Certificate Award
- Mr. Charles Liu, Rising Star Emerging Scholar Graduate Certificate Award
Unfortunately, Prof. Chomsky was unable to deliver the keynote address due to a medical condition. Conference organizers expressed well wishes for his recovery.
University of Vigo’s Prof. Elena de Prada Creo, director of STAR Network Spain, welcomed attendees to Vigo and emphasized the importance of in-person and online interactions for future research collaborations.
In addition to the awards ceremony and speeches, the conference featured research presentations, roundtable discussions, posters, and workshops on timely issues in education.
The STAR Global Conference is the network’s premiere annual academic event, traveling to a different global city each year. It brings together scholars and students to exchange ideas, build relationships, and work toward a more equitable world.