From its inception in 1992, The Passport has been used to illustrate a strong commitment of students to the idea of intellectual inquiry, discourse and community building. It reminds the students and faculty involved in its production that the value of learning and teaching must transcend the traditional classroom setting. What The Passport offers is an opportunity for students to take ownership of their ideas and make a contribution to the culture of active learning at Ferrum College. Over the years, the publication has appealed to students unabashed by such a leadership role. They gather and seem to recognize The Passport as a vehicle that can be used to speak to the Ferrum College community and the world beyond.

When I created The Passport, it was originally intended to focus on the interests of the International Studies program. This narrow emphasis reminded the Ferrum College community and its friends of the commitment to global education and citizenship. Since 2003 I have sought to expand the scope of the publication to include other academic discipline. It is an exciting move that fosters a multidisciplinary approach to learning. Based on the recommendation of faculty, editorial staff membership invitations were sent to students in Art, Business, Drama, Environmental Science and Psychology. I hope to establish a staff that is fully representative of the academic areas of the College. These students will work with those in political science, history and international studies who have traditionally dominated the composition of The Passport staff.

This year offers some real excitement and challenges. The joy of discovering knowledge and information, however, will be challenged by a sense of responsibility to community building. One the one hand, the conflicts in Iraq and elsewhere remind us of our obligation to pursue the truth and discuss rigorously its boundaries. On the other hand, it is clear to us that such conversation through words must be done in a climate influenced by civility and reason. Even the passion evident in the wordings of some of the article must not undermine the value we give to community building. The Passport hopes to invite students, faculty, staff and prospective students to its marketplace that will be filled with a wide variety of ideas and perspectives.

We welcome the vice presidency of Dr. Leslie Lambert and salute her efforts to offer effective and energized leadership in the quality of academic life at Ferrum College. We envision ourselves working on ideas and story lines at a time when careful attention is given to academic identity, authenticity and accountability. The Passport is positioned to be an integral part of what evolves as a persistent culture of learning and teaching at Ferrum College.

As usual, let us hope that you all continue to see The Passport as YOUR publication and a way for you to stay in touch with Ferrum College. Dr.

Frédéric Belle Torimiro
Founder/Faculty Advisor