FSU Provost Jim Clark and Director of International Programs Jim Pitts were joined by students at the FSU London Study Centre.
During the current semester, Jim Clark, the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Florida State University, paid a visit to the FSU London Study Centre to inspect the facilities and engage with students, faculty, and staff. Clark emphasized the significance of connecting with FSU’s study centers abroad, a priority he has consistently upheld, including his visit last fall.
“FSU’s study centers in London, Florence, and Valencia, along with the branch campus in the Republic of Panama, offer students exceptional opportunities to reside and study in vibrant, culturally diverse cities,” noted Clark. He expressed his enthusiasm for witnessing firsthand the FSU London Study Centre following numerous accounts of transformative experiences shared by individuals.
While FSU’s inaugural study abroad program in London dates back to 1971, students didn’t begin residing at the center until its acquisition in 1992. Situated in the Bloomsbury district’s historic core, the FSU London Study Centre is conveniently located near various significant cultural and historical landmarks such as the National Gallery and Buckingham Palace. The center hosts programs throughout the year, including unique opportunities such as [ppp1] and [ppp2].
Clark explored several iconic sites in proximity to the FSU London Study Centre, including the British Museum, Covent Garden, a bustling shopping and entertainment destination, and the Freud Museum.
Reflecting on the experience, Clark remarked, “Studying at the FSU London Study Centre enables students to utilize the city as an extensive learning resource. The location boasts abundant enriching assets that complement the educational journey.”
During his visit, Clark engaged with instructors based in London and observed popular courses offered at the Study Centre, such as Sexual Health in the Modern World led by Agata Pacho, Peoples of the Roman World taught by archaeologist Louise Schofield, a former British Museum curator, and Introduction to International Affairs instructed by Gergana Dimova.
The visit culminated in an evening reception at the FSU London Study Centre, where students, faculty, staff, and FSU alumni residing in London gathered. Provost Clark emphasized the significance of interacting with individuals at FSU’s study centers, branch campuses, and alumni abroad.
Jim Pitts, the longstanding Director of International Programs set to retire this summer, was recognized during the reception. He was presented with a framed print and a replica blue plaque of the London Study Centre—a tribute acknowledging his pivotal role in the center’s development over nearly three decades.
Expressing gratitude, Pitts, a seasoned economist, stated, “Seeing the impact of my efforts over the past thirty years is immensely rewarding. I look forward to witnessing Provost Clark’s vision further enhance the foundation laid by the London staff.”
As a token of appreciation, Provost Jim Clark received a framed print of “Bacchus & Ariadne,” the ceiling painting within the main building of the FSU London Study Centre. This artwork, painted around 1700 by French Huguenot Louis Chéron, contributes to the Grade II listed status bestowed upon the FSU London Study Centre by English Heritage. The painting symbolizes new beginnings, aligning with the mission of International Programs and Provost Clark’s forward-looking vision.
In his address, Clark commended Pitts for his leadership and dedication, emphasizing the transformative impact he has had on the university community. He lauded Pitts for his focus on enhancing lives and highlighted the remarkable outcomes of his leadership.
For more information about the FSU London Study Centre, please visit [ppp3].