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Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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How Does a Faculty Exchange Strengthen Academic Partnerships?
Cuba Connect panel discussion with, from left, participants William Suarez, Michelle Bell, Cindy Bautista-Thomas, Theresa Lundy, and Alison Abreu
May 13, 2026
On May 6, Lehman College hosted “Cuba Connect,” bringing together faculty, students, and community members to reflect on a recent academic exchange in Cuba and its role in ongoing international collaboration. Cuban Ambassador Yuri Gala López attended the event, which was organized by the Office of the Provost, the Office of International Programs & Community Engagement, and the Department of Latin American and Latino Studies.
“The experience went beyond learning about the Cuban higher education system—it reinforced the bonds that tie us as educators and human beings through life-changing experiences,” said Teresita Levy, Associate Provost for Experiential Learning and Executive Director for Industry Partnerships, speaking about the recent exchange.
That sense of connection carried into conversations among faculty from across the College, who reflected on the relationships built with Cuban colleagues and the lessons they brought back to campus. Many described the trip as transformative both inside and outside the classroom. “Cuba Connect offered an opportunity to reflect on our shared experiences and what we learned in our travels across the island,” Levy added. 
Teresita Levy and Cuban Ambassador Yuri Gala López, Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN
This exchange is part of the award-winning Lehman in the Provinces program with Cuban universities, which supports ongoing faculty collaboration between institutions.
Looking ahead, plans are underway to participate in TIES 11, the XI Workshop of Strategic Alliances for the Internationalization of Higher Education, taking place October 16–24, 2026. Faculty and staff interested in learning more about this and future international opportunities are encouraged to contact Teresita Levy.