Valparaiso University’s German Program Honored for Excellence
Valparaiso University’s German Program has been designated a German Center of Excellence by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG). Valpo is one of the only two U.S collegiate institutions to ever receive this honor from the organization. This is the first year that such a designation has been considered for institutions on the post-secondary level.
“It is a particular honor to have received this designation in its inaugural year for higher education,” said Jennifer Bjornstad, associate professor of German at Valpo. “This is a nationally competitive honor that recognizes the stellar faculty, exceptional students, and accomplished Valpo alumni and provides national recognition of the high quality of our German program.”
After reviewing the applications of numerous college and university German programs, the AATG review committee found Valpo’s programming excellent in every category. The committee members said the program demonstrates a strong support from the administration, professional colleagues, alumni, and students, and also has strong ties to the wider campus and community.
Valpo’s German program offers a high level of language proficiency including reading, writing, listening to and speaking German. With close-knit bonds between professors and students, the overall German experience is unique with extracurricular activities and special events are also integral elements of the program.
“The program’s curriculum is most impressive,” said Keith Cothrun, executive director of AATG. “Outcomes at each instructional level are clearly articulated and diverse learning styles are respected through varied instructional and assessment techniques.”
For more information about Valparaiso University’s German program visit valpo.edu/foreignlanguages/german/index.php.
About Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University is a comprehensive independent Lutheran university with more than 4,000 students on its campus located in Northwest Indiana, an hour from Chicago. Valpo is a community of purpose-driven, service-minded and ethical individuals who embrace the pursuit of truth with freedom, humility and compassion. Valpo has been identified as one of the top master’s-level institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report magazine for the past 22 years. Valparaiso University offers 110 undergraduate academic programs through the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering and Nursing. Valpo also has a distinguished honors college, a School of Law and more than 40 degree and certificate programs in its Graduate School and Continuing Education Division. Valpo has been recognized for its commitment to outstanding teaching, preparing thoughtful leaders with strong cross-cultural skills and global awareness, and dedication to serving others.
