Earlier this month, the Sponsored Students and Special Program office within the Graduate School and International Education welcomed sponsors from the Republic of Panama to campus to celebrate commencement for their group of sponsored students. 

SENACYT (National Secretary of Science, Technology, and Innovation) is an organization that sponsors Panamanian students to study four years at the U of A in addition to one year of intensive English language training at Spring International Language Center upon arrival. 

"It was a pleasure hosting the group on campus and showcasing all the university has to offer," said Mayra Torres, associate director of special programs for the Graduate School and International Education. "We look forward to our continued partnership and welcoming new SENACYT sponsored students in the future."

The Pre-Academic Program for SENACYT Scholars currently has 92 sponsored students, including 16 students who graduated in May 2021. SENACYT scholars are highly involved on campus through organizations like the Panamanian Student Organization, International Culture Team, student government and various departmental clubs.

"Our visits to the University of Arkansas are always rewarding," said Yara Aldeano, SENACYT scholarship monitor. "Programming and follow-up meetings have been implemented to provide support to students throughout their studies. It fills me with great pride to know that our students raise the name of our country, excelling in different aspects."

Italo Quezada, the SENACYT director of scholarships, attended on a first-time visit to Arkansas. "On my first visit, I brought many expectations, after hearing comments before the trip about its magic, its beauty and the qualities with which they would treat us, and it was far exceeded." Quezada said the university provides "a fertile ground for the growth and development of the academic and professional dreams of each of our Panamanian students, who with their effort, charisma and performance bring pride to our beloved country, Panama."