5/12/2009

Suffolk University Vice President for Enrollment and International Programs Marguerite J. Dennis recently completed a tour of the Middle East, meeting with regional universities to discuss possible collaborations.

It’s familiar territory for Dennis, who has visited the region on behalf of Suffolk for more than 15 years. During this trip, she spent time in the United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Saudi Arabia (Jeddah and Riyadh), Kuwait, and Bahrain.

Suffolk has a strong connection to the Middle East. Among the nearly 1,000 international students enrolled, about 100 come from countries in the Gulf region. Suffolk’s main Boston campus now includes Muslim prayer facilities—including separate rooms for men and women—and Iftar meals options for students during Ramadan.

Dennis also met with the parents of both prospective and current students, discussing their child’s academic progress with the latter group. Her visit was highlighted by Trade Arabia, a popular business news portal for the Middle East. “So far, the people I have met in the Gulf have responded positively to the personalized approach we give to each student and family,” she told Trade Arabia. “Many have told me that they did not expect this personalized service. The parents are an important part of our enrollment plan.”

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