York College Explores New Global Learning Partnership in Brazil
In Spring 2025, when Drs. Tamara Sniad and Mohammed Raja first connected with the leadership at Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF) in Brazil to explore a global learning partnership, they had a good feeling it could be the start of something special.
This was solidified during their recent visit to the campus. Representing YCP and the Graham Collaborative Innovation Fellows program, they met with students, faculty, staff, and administrators to learn about UFJF’s programs, structures, and long-term vision.
“From the moment we arrived, it was clear how much our two institutions share in common,” said Dr. Sniad, Executive Director of the Graham Center for Collaborative Innovation. “Their commitment to university-community connections, individualized learning, and linking academics with real-world, practical applications mirrors what we’re doing at York. There was an immediate sense of alignment.”
Planned for Summer 2026, Graham Fellows will have a unique opportunity to connect with peers across the world in a program grounded in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Before traveling, Fellows will have virtual meetings with UFJF students to collaborate on projects and plan the visit. Once in Brazil, Fellows will take part in workshops, visit local industries, and pitch their own project and business ideas for feedback.
“The goal isn’t just to send students abroad,” Dr. Sniad explained. “It’s to create meaningful connections that inspire global thinking and action. We want this to be the start of something that continues long after the trip is over.”
While the primary goal of the trip was to co-design a global summer learning experience, possibilities for other joint ventures were clear. For example, UJFJ’s Critt (the Regional Center for Innovation and Technology Transfer) works to transfer technology and innovative solutions, thereby contributing to the country's economic competitiveness. As part of this, students are able to start and run their own businesses. “Right now, there are more than 70 student-run businesses. One of them is even a travel agency, which we plan to partner with for the student trip we’re planning next summer,” shares Dr. Raja.
During their visit, the co-directors shared their expertise with presentations to UFJF students and faculty. Dr. Sniad led a workshop and discussion on English as a medium of instruction and was a guest in a class of future English language teachers and interpreters. Dr. Raja, Co-Director of the Graham Fellows Program, offered a session on supply chain logistics and operations using a simulation.
As a member of the BRICS nations, Brazil represents one of the world’s leading emerging economies. A partnership between York College and one of Brazil’s top 20 universities presents exciting opportunities for joint research initiatives, academic exchange, and global engagement. “This connection would also open doors for international faculty research collaborations,” said Dr. Raja.
While the formal agreement is still being finalized, the enthusiasm is undeniable. As one Graham Fellow shared, “I am excited about the sustainability workshops that we get to choose. I am definitely excited to experience a new culture and explore the area.” This initiative represents an exciting step toward giving students a broader understanding of the world and their place in it. As plans continue to take shape, one thing is certain: the groundwork has been laid for a partnership that could help York College students think bigger, go farther, and engage more deeply with the world around them.
