11/7/25

The Office of Global Affairs and International Student Services is proud to share the success of two recent international engagement events that strengthened Fort Hays State University’s partnerships and global presence.

1. NextGen Challenge with Hayek Global College – Brazil

On October 11 and October 18, Dr. Ed Vengrouski and Dr. Henry Schwaller facilitated the NextGen Challenge, an entrepreneurship pitch competition hosted by our partner institution, Hayek Global College in Brazil.

Across two weekends, approximately 40 participants—including current Hayek students and high school seniors—engaged in a dynamic learning experience focused on innovation, business development, and pitch communication. During the first weekend, Dr. Schwaller and Dr. Vengrouski provided instruction on entrepreneurial fundamentals, guiding students through developing their ideas into actionable business concepts. On the second weekend, student teams presented their pitches, with both facilitators serving as judges.

The event functioned both as a hands-on academic learning opportunity for Hayek students and an effective recruiting initiative for prospective high school students interested in joining the Hayek/FHSU academic partnership. Participants reported positive experiences and expressed appreciation for the knowledge, mentorship, and encouragement they received.

Near the conclusion of the event, FHSU Graduate Teaching Assistant, Diana Angarita, joined the group to share her personal experience as a current FHSU student. Her testimony highlighted the academic and cultural benefits of the Hayek/FHSU pathway and inspired many high school students to consider enrolling in the program.

Leadership at Hayek Global College provided highly positive feedback and expressed a strong interest in future collaborations with Dr. Schwaller, Dr. Vengrouski, and FHSU.

2. FHSU Presentation with UNIVALLE – Bolivia

On October 21, Dr. Robert Lloyd delivered a virtual presentation to approximately 25 students and parents from our partner institution, UNIVALLE, in Bolivia. Dr. Lloyd provided an overview of FHSU’s academic offerings, with a focus on the College of Business and Entrepreneurship and discussed the value of the international academic experience available at Fort Hays State University.

Two Global Ambassadors from the Global Affairs and International Student Services office, Alejandro Salinas Soriano and Hugo Lopez, joined the presentation to share their personal perspectives as FHSU students. Their insights into academic support, campus life, and the international student experience resonated strongly with participants.

Attendees demonstrated clear interest by asking thoughtful questions throughout the event. UNIVALLE organizers expressed sincere appreciation for Dr. Lloyd, Alejandro, and Hugo, noting the value of the information and the warm, student-centered approach of the presenters.

Summary

Both the NextGen Challenge with Hayek Global College and the UNIVALLE informational presentation were highly successful and exemplified FHSU’s commitment to global engagement, collaborative partnership, and student-centered international education. We extend our appreciation to the faculty, teaching assistants, and student ambassadors who represented FHSU with excellence.