Monroe Announces Partnership for Academic and Cultural Exchange with Albanian University

BCW Member Monroe University, with campuses in New York and Saint Lucia, and the University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi” in Shkoder, Albania, have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to facilitate academic and cultural exchange opportunities for students at both institutions.

The partnership was made possible with the support of the Business Council of Westchester (BCW) and BCW President, Marsha Gordon, who connected Monroe University with this remarkable opportunity. BCW’s dedication to fostering talent development, meeting the needs of regional employers, and supporting the Albanian-American community was instrumental in paving the way for this collaboration.

Founded in 1933, Monroe University serves a diverse student body of more than 9,000 students across its campuses in New York and Saint Lucia, as well as online. Known for its innovative programs and commitment to student success, Monroe University has become a destination for many Albanian-American students seeking higher education. The MOU will not only strengthen Monroe’s ties to the Albanian-American community in New York but also deepen its connections abroad, fostering a truly global academic and cultural bridge.

Gersom Lopez, Dean of International Admissions at Monroe University, said: “There are a number of Albanian-Americans studying at Monroe or are now proud alumni, and we look forward to welcoming more students from University of Shkodra through this new MOU.”

Established in 1957, the University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi” is one of Albania’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Located in Shkoder, a cultural and academic hub in northern Albania, it serves approximately 5,200 students annually.

Prof. Dr. Tonin Gjuraj, Rector of the University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi,” remarked, “As the newly appointed Rector, I am immensely proud of our exceptional student body and their potential to shape the future. This partnership underscores my vision to position the University of Shkodra at the forefront of international collaborations, creating groundbreaking opportunities for our students and faculty to innovate, connect, and lead on the global stage.””

The MOU was facilitated by Bota Consulting Group under the leadership of CEO Lola Gazivoda. Founded by Gazivoda, Bota Consulting Group specializes in forging strategic partnerships and fostering international collaboration. The partnership provides a framework for student exchanges to enrich academic and cultural experiences; collaborative research projects to drive innovation; cultural programs to deepen understanding and celebrate shared heritage, and possible conferences and seminars to engage both academic and local communities.