Florida State University's Center for Global Engagement (CGE) welcomes Bryant Harden, the new Instructional Specialist and Program Director for the Global Citizenship Certificate to the team. Bryant, a dedicated advocate for international education and global engagement, has a robust background in international relations and a passion for fostering cross-cultural understanding. Harden brings a wealth of experience that will undoubtedly enrich the campus community at FSU.

Harden's journey toward becoming a global citizen began during his undergraduate years when his exposure to international programs was limited. However, a transformative service-learning program in South Africa sparked a deep interest in global engagement, setting the course for his future endeavors. 

Following graduation from Mercer University with a B.A. in Political Science, Harden decided to gain more international experience and joined the Peace Corps. During his time as a volunteer in Mongolia Harden's passion for international education and intercultural understanding flourished. He spent over two years working alongside Mongolian counterparts, immersing himself in the local culture and forming lasting connections. Through teaching English and fostering critical thinking skills, he witnessed the transformative power of education in shaping young minds.

After earning an M.A. in International Relations from the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom, he ventured into the world of study abroad programs as the Coordinator of Study Abroad Programs at Mercer University.  During his tenure at Mercer University, Harden played a pivotal role in overseeing faculty-led, exchange, and internship programs abroad. He worked diligently to expand faculty-led opportunities, develop an internship program in South Africa, and forge new exchange partnerships in France and England. Additionally, Harden's commitment to global engagement led him to lead programs abroad, including one to the United Arab Emirates and another to his beloved Mongolia, where he had previously served as a Peace Corps volunteer.

Harden continued to pursue his academic journey by pursuing a Ph.D. in Political Science at the University of Florida, where he will be defending his dissertation this coming fall. His research interests revolve around critical theory, the work of Michel Foucault, and the role of development programming in US foreign policy, with a particular focus on the US Peace Corps in Mongolia.

Harden is eager to be part of the FSU wide team to increase FSU's internationalization efforts and expand the global footprint. He will teach two classes of Global Perspectives, a required course for the certificate, in addition to managing the Global Citizenship program for undergraduates. He will also provide intercultural training for faculty, staff, and graduate students through the professional development Global Partner Certificate Program. In addition, he will develop and facilitate intercultural trainings and workshops based on the specific requests of departments, offices and academic classes.

Harden envisions making a positive impact within the department and campus community by expanding the reach of both the Global Citizenship Certificate and the Global Partner Certificate. He aims to strengthen connections among current Global Citizens through in-person gatherings, increase undergraduate enrollment in the Global Citizenship Certificate and substantially boost the number of graduate students earning the Global Partner Certificate.

Beyond his professional achievements, Harden is an avid traveler, having journeyed to numerous countries since 2011. He continues to explore the world with his wife, creating cherished memories through international adventures. Additionally, he has developed a passion for sailing, spending leisurely hours navigating the waters on his trusty Sunfish (a sailboat).

Interesting facts about Harden include his Thomasville, GA upbringing as a Florida State fan, and his unique background as the child of a taxidermist and educator, who only recently discovered the joys of international travel.

As Bryant Harden takes on his new role at the FSU Center for Global Engagement, the campus community can expect an individual deeply committed to fostering global understanding and enriching the lives of students and faculty alike. His expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the Center for Global Engagement and Florida State University's commitment to global citizenship and intercultural learning. Join us in welcoming Bryant Harden to the FSU community.