FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Peace Corps, University of Florida Sign New Graduate School Partnership

Peace Corps Director Williams Speaks at the Bob Graham Center for Public Service

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 21, 2012 Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams signed a new partnership agreement between the Peace Corps Masters International (MI) program and the University of Floridas (UF) College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, allowing students to earn academic credit for two years of Peace Corps service overseas. This year, UF ranks number one in the Peace Corps Top Colleges graduate schools rankings with 30 currently serving volunteers holding masters degrees from the school.

The University of Florida fosters civic engagement and encourages its graduates to pursue careers in public service, said Director Williams (Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Dominican Republic, 1967-1970). UF has consistently ranked as one of the Peace Corps top volunteer-producing universities with graduates serving in more than 40 Peace Corps posts worldwide. Were thrilled to welcome them to the Masters International program.

Director Williams also addressed UF students, returned Peace Corps volunteers and Peace Corps applicants at the UFs Bob Graham Center for Public Service, speaking about the importance of public service and highlighting how Peace Corps can benefit a career in international development.

The university also ranks fourth on Peace Corps 2012 Top Colleges list of top volunteer-producing colleges and universities with 101 UF undergraduate alumni currently serving as Peace Corps volunteers overseas.

UF joins more than 80 other distinguished academic institutions nationwide in establishing a MI partnership with the Peace Corps. The MI program began at Rutgers University-Camden in 1987 and since then, more than 1,000 Peace Corps volunteers have completed the program. For more information, visit www.peacecorps.gov/masters.

About the Peace Corps: Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps by executive order on March 1, 1961, more than 200,000 Americans have served in 139 host countries. Today, 9,095 volunteers are working with local communities in 75 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment and the agencys mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.

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