Geonomics/Rohatyn Center for Global Affairs

Mission statement of the Rohatyn Center for Global Affairs:

"Middlebury College’s flagship site is for the production and dissemination of knowledge about international and global issues. Through a diverse set of programs, the Center reaches across boundaries of language, culture, and geography to engage students’ capacity for rigorous analysis and independent thought in a rapidly changing world.

In supporting Middlebury’s aim to be the leading global liberal arts college, the Center sponsors vibrant co-curricular programs, fosters dialogue with leading international scholars and practitioners, funds innovative undergraduate field research, and promotes scholarly collaborations between students and faculty. RCGA builds bridges across disciplines and communities, local and global."

Source: RCGA website

History of the Rohatyn Center for Global Affairs

The Geonomics Institute for International Economic Advancement was founded in 1988, a continuation of the American Collegiate Consortium established by Presdient Olin Robison in 1987. Its original purpose was to convene public and private leaders who understood the benefits of trade and commercial ties between Western businesses and developing countries and markets.

On July 1, 1996, the Geonomics Institute began an agreement with Middlebury College for a trial period of two years. Through this agreement, Middlebury faculty would work closely with the Geonomics Institute and the Institute would receive technological and support services from the College. The Institute would change its name several times. It would become known as the Geonomics Center for International Affairs before becoming the Center for International Affairs at Middlebury College in 2001. In 2002, the Center was named the Rohatyn Center for Global Affairs, in honor of Felix Rohatyn '49.