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Dateline: 12/8/2008

GONZAGA UNIVERSITY NEWS RELEASE
Dale Goodwin, Director
Peter Tormey, Associate Director

GU Partners with Peace Corps Master International

Peace Corps
http://www.peacecorps.gov
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Peace Corps recently welcomed Gonzaga University as its newest Master's International (MI) partner school. Gonzaga joins more than 57 other institutions in offering the Master's International option to potential Peace Corps Volunteers. Gonzaga's program, offered through the International Student Program, will grant candidates a Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) in tandem with a 27-month Peace Corps assignment.

Peace Corps Director Ron Tschetter said, "I am enthusiastic about our new partnership with Gonzaga University. With this partnership, the Peace Corps will have the opportunity to further develop the skills of Volunteers in the area of teaching English as a second language. I am confident that Gonzaga University will be a strong Master's International partner."

Candidates who have been accepted to both Gonzaga University and the Peace Corps will be eligible for the program which, in addition to class work toward the degree will include a full Peace Corps assignment overseas. After successful completion of the Peace Corps assignment, students will return to the campus to finish out their degree requirements. .

For more information about Master's International, please visit the Peace Corps Web site.

"Gonzaga's tradition of service to others -- a principle we live by both in our curriculum and our University mission -- makes our University uniquely matched with the goals of the Peace Corps Master's International program. We look forward with enthusiasm to making PCMI a leading destination for our graduates as well as an increasingly timely inspiration to our entire University community," said Raymond Fadeley, Dean of International Programs.

As the Peace Corps approaches its 50th anniversary, its service legacy continues to promote peace and friendship around the world. Historically, more  than 195,000 Volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries in which they have served. Applications to serve in the Peace Corps have increased 16 percent this past year, the largest boost in the last five years. Currently, 7,876 Peace Corps Volunteers are serving in 76 countries. Peace Corps Volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.