The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and Council of American Overseas Research Centers (CAORC), with support from the U.S. Department of State, sponsored a three-week long seminar for faculty members at CIC colleges and universities titled “Teaching about Islam and Middle Eastern Culture.” The seminar was hosted by the American Center of Oriental Research (ACOR) in Amman, Jordan from December 28, 2006 to January 19, 2007.

The seminar was designed as an opportunity for full time faculty members in all fields at CIC member institutions to learn more about the Middle East at a time when knowledge and teaching about the region are more important than ever. Intended for faculty members who are not already experts on this subject, the seminar allowed participants to learn about the Middle East and to understand better the region, Islam, and Middle Eastern history. The participants heard from experts in the field of Middle Eastern history and Islam from professors at Jordanian universities. Participants also received visits from officials in the Jordanian government as well as US Ambassador to Jordan David Hale. In addition to the presentations and speakers, the faculty members visited many of Jordan’s archaeological and religious sites including Petra and the King Abdullah Mosque. The participants are expected to share their new insights and knowledge gained at the seminar with their home institutions. The seminar was directed by Dr. Barbara A. Porter, director of ACOR with assistance from Chris Tuttle, assistant director of ACOR.

CIC is an association for small and mid-sized U.S. colleges and universities with the mission to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance private higher education’s contribution to society.