As a university faculty member, there are few experiences as enriching and eye-opening as international engagements. Having the opportunity to witness firsthand how people of different cultures interact and understand new ideas is priceless.
Dr. Jeffrey Cornelius-White, distinguished professor of counseling at Missouri State University, has the privilege of participating in many events and initiatives across the globe.
“My goal is to try to bring people with different perspectives together to find cooperative solutions for their shared goals,” Cornelius-White said.
Notable events
For the past 20 years, Cornelius-White taught and spoke to an extensive list of international groups and schools. He’s participated as a lecturer, guest professor, external examiner, guest speaker and keynote speaker.
Some of his recent and upcoming international engagements include:
- Psychotherapy conference presentations in Copenhagen, Denmark (2022).
- External examiner at the University of Nottingham School, United Kingdom (2022, 2023).
- Keynote presentation at IBERO Americana University-Mexico City, Mexico (2023).
- Keynote presentation at Latin American Congress of Psychology and Mexican Congress of Psychology, IBERO Americana- Puebla, Mexico (2023).
- Keynote speaker and faculty-led education abroad program director in Greece (2024).
- Mary Kilborn Lecture at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (2024).
Recent topics he discussed at these events include addressing mental health concerns with pressing global issues, such as nuclear warfare, pandemics, and rapid technological advancement.
He encourages those he encounters to consider the principles of their decisions and guides them toward compassionate solutions.
Working toward a better tomorrow
Cornelius-White highlights the importance of non-verbal cues and showcases the power of human connection despite language barriers. He also acknowledges what a privilege it is to be a native English speaker, which many people often overlook.
“Even when I don’t speak the native language, I find it interesting trying to interpret the context of what is happening,” Cornelius-White said. “Just by paying attention to the emotions of those speaking, you can find a way to learn and engage.”
By fostering empathy and acceptance, Cornelius-White continues to make an impact on these diverse communities and help people understand one another better.
“It’s been a really neat phenomenon to realize we’re all connected by a lot more than language,” Cornelius-White said. “It can make a difference when one is sensitive enough to appreciate the humility of disorientation and persevere towards connection.”