Expanding Opportunities Through Restructuring in Anthropology, Languages, and Global Studies at ISU

In an exciting development at Idaho State University (ISU), the Department of Anthropology will expand its scope, becoming the Department of Anthropology and Languages, while the Department of Global Studies and Languages will transform into the Global Studies Program. Dr. Donna Lybecker, Professor of Political Science, will serve as the new Director of Global Studies. Current Department of Anthropology Chair, Dr. Katherine Reedy will remain in her leadership role for the Department of Anthropology and Languages.

The restructuring aims to make the Global Studies Program more interdisciplinary, integrating it with various departments across the college, with a vision of growing a program that not only continues its strong tradition but also embraces connections with business, health, and other academic fields. The new direction for the Global Studies Program focuses on preparing students for diverse career paths. Dr. Lybecker emphasizes the importance of aligning the program with global job market trends and addressing major global questions.

Incorporating language studies and programs into the Department of Anthropology will provide language students greater opportunities for immersion and study abroad experiences; leverage the existing linguistic skills and medical anthropology programs to expand Latino studies, the MA program, and Spanish for Health Professions degree; better support Anthropology students who are required to take language courses; ease advising and scheduling difficulties; better provide essential language training for studying abroad and anthropological fieldwork; and open new avenues for research and future collaborations for both students and faculty

"All anthropologists teach that language is what makes us uniquely human,” Dr. Reedy says. “This merger is a natural fit that will allow us to more directly align our programs to provide the best student experience  both on campus and in the field."

Currently, the department and program websites are being redesigned, social media is being updated, and announcements are going out to faculty and students. Students enrolled in language, anthropology, or global studies programs should be assured that existing structures/requirements of the programs will not be affected and current students can expect to continue in the same degree program they signed up for. Students are invited and encouraged to engage in all new opportunities and events. 

Please reach out to the department chair or director with any questions or concerns. Global Studies Program Directory, Donna Lybecker, (208)282-3331, donnalybecker@isu.edu. Anthropology and Languages Chair, Katherine Reedy, (208)282-6137, katherinereedy@isu.edu.