Shawnee State University students in the Department of English and Humanities are gaining transformative global learning opportunities thanks to the Betty & Jim Hodgden Travel Fund. Established through the estate of the late Professor Emeritus Betty Hodgden and her husband Jim, the endowment allows students to embark on educational trips that broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of diverse cultures.
Betty and Jim Hodgden, passionate advocates of travel and lifelong learning, created the fund to ensure SSU students could experience educational adventures each year. Their vision has become a reality, providing students with opportunities to learn beyond textbooks and immerse themselves in global experiences.
One professor who has made significant use of the travel fund is Pablo Salinas, who has led several trips abroad, helping students learn while exploring the world firsthand. Salinas has taken students to destinations including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Panama, Peru and Paris. These trips, fully funded by the travel fund, have played a vital role in connecting education with real-world experiences.
“It takes a lot of commitment from a professor to take a group of students out of the country,” Salinas said, noting the dedication required to organize and oversee these life-changing experiences. Students appreciate his efforts, with many crediting these trips with enhancing both their academic and personal growth.
I personally have traveled twice with Professor Salinas and can attest to his emphasis in balancing learning and enjoyment while on these trips.
The most recent trip, offered at no cost to four students, was made possible by the Betty & Jim Hodgden Travel Fund under the SSU Development Foundation. This financial support makes international education accessible, eliminating the burden of travel expenses for students.
By offering these opportunities, the Hodgden Travel Fund is fostering global citizenship and enriching the academic experience at SSU. Students not only advance their learning but also develop critical thinking, adaptability and a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures.
As Shawnee State University continues to honor the legacy of Betty and Jim Hodgden, their endowment ensures future students will step off campus and into the world, ready to learn and grow.
