Burks dons international travel backpack; hopes all students will follow him abroad Although Harding is buried in a small town in Arkansas , many of its students graduate with a world view broadened far beyond that of the average U.S. citizen, thus fulfilling one of its president's fondest dreams. Since Dr. David Burks became the president ofHarding University 10 years ago, he has been involved in international travel. "Traveling has made such an impact on me personally that I feel that every student should have the opportunity to spend time in a foreign country," he said. This view is underscored by the fact that Burks has been instrumental in establishing three new overseas campuses during the time ofhis presidency - one in Athens, Greece; one in London, England; and the most recent addition in Brisbane, Australia. Last summer, Burks visited Australia, making sure everything was ready for the first group of students to arrive. "HUA (Harding University in Australia) focuses mainly on the natural sciences and the uniquely Australian wildlife, distinguishing it from our other programs with their literary, cultural or historical-biblical emphases ," Burks said. "What an experience, to swim near the Great Barrier Reefor disappear for two weeks in the outback." Although Burks is enthusiastic about all the programs, he does have a favorite - HUG (Harding University in Greece) - because of its biblical significance. "I think of the shores of the Sea of Galilee, the sight of the Colosseum in Rome or Ephesus with the baptistry that inspired the fountain in front of the Mclnteer Building," Burks said. "All of these captured my interest as the setting of so many biblical events." But more than the ancient sights, the people in the various countries have made the biggest impression on Burks. "I'm impressed every time I go to the international congregation in Athens and hear the gospel preached in several different languages." While traveling, Burks enjoyed the security of a small group and a guide, but now and again he ventures out without help. "IrememberthetimeLeah [his wife] and I traveled by · ourselves on the train in Italy," he reminisced. "We managed to get from the train to a taxi , and Dr. Ganus celebrates a Bison touchdown. Ganus showed his support by going where the students were throughout the year. Photo by Kami Wentz. from the taxi to the hotel , only to find that no one at the hotel spoke English. We had an interesting time ordering our supper and getting to the airport the next morning!" he said with a smile. From all his traveling, Burks feels he has gained a greater appreciation for his own country, but he said he has also become somewhat more objective. "I've noticed that there's a lot of pride in every country, though sometimes it's easy for us in the United States to think we have a market on that commodity,"hesaid. "Wedon't." The dream Burks has for all the international programs is that Harding might have more students who graduate with a global literacy that will inspire them to be more involved in mission work wherever they live. "I envision students having a greater appreciation for foreign customs because they see that all people are a part of the world God created," Burks said. "I hope all of our students have the chance to learn that God is not just for one country. He's for all of us and wants everyone to hear about His son, Jesus." - Karin Springer President/ Chancellor 133
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