Global Identity
Characterized by academic programming that addresses the changing needs of our nation and world, LRU attracts a student body with a strong international presence.
At La Roche University, our global identity is reflected in academic programs designed to meet the evolving needs of our world.
Nearly 20 percent of our students are international, representing more than 50 countries and bringing a wide range of perspectives to campus.
Our commitment to international education is rooted in a mission that emphasizes global engagement, peace, and justice. This work has earned national recognition, including a Senator Paul Simon Spotlight Award for campus internationalization from NAFSA: Association of International Educators for our Pacem in Terris program, as well as recognition in the Open Doors Report, which has ranked La Roche among the top 40 baccalaureate institutions for international students—including a No. 12 ranking nationwide.
Guided by these values, we continue to develop innovative programs and experiences that prepare students to lead and thrive in an interconnected world.
International Outreach
International Admissions: LRU welcomes students of all ethnicities, nationalities, religions and backgrounds.
International Student Services: This office is the primary resource for international students once they enroll at LRU.
Pacem In Terris Institute: Established in 1993 the Pacem In Terris Institute brings students from war-torn and developing nations to study at La Roche.
English as a Second Language: This comprehensive academic ESL program is for non-native students seeking to prepare for undergraduate or graduate school.
Pathway Program: This program allows undergraduate international application who do not meet English proficiency requirements to take ESL courses, possibly for credit.
Quainton Center for Global Engagement
The Quainton Center for Global Engagement at La Roche facilitates a greater connection between American and international students and scholars.
Throughout the year the Center offers various on-campus activities, lectures and globally focused programming to heighten the cultural awareness and sensibilities of the community. Annual programs include:
- International Education Week, a celebration of La Roche’s multicultural community.
- Global Problems, Global Solutions, an annual conference which uses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a framework to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all.
The Center honors the La Roche mission statement by sharing a dedication to international education and promoting an inclusive environment where the campus community as a whole can examine current events and topics facing today’s global society.
History
The Center was named in honor of Ambassador Anthony C.E. Quainton and Susan Long Quainton, two longtime supporters of the University. The Quaintons served on the La Roche Board of Trustees from 2007 to 2019.
Ambassador Quainton was diplomat-in-residence and a professor of U.S. foreign policy. He previously served in the United States Foreign Service and held ambassadorships to the Central African Republic, Nicaragua, Kuwait and Peru.
Ms. Quainton is a retired teacher. She has served as the director of After School Tutoring for Hispanic Elementary Education, and she holds a Master of Arts from St. Hilda’s College in Oxford, England.