Whitworth University’s Jordyn Bennett ’27 Named Finalist for Prestigious Critical Language Scholarship in Swahili
Bennett is one of fewer than 30 students nationwide selected for the Swahili program, which prepares American students with critical language skills and intercultural competence. Hosted at MS-TCDC, a training center in Usa River near Arusha, Tanzania, the program includes daily language instruction, homestays with local families, and cultural experiences designed to deepen understanding of East African society.
“The application process was extremely competitive and aligned closely with the State Department’s principles of diplomacy,” Bennett says. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to a country I love and continue improving my Swahili while learning more about the culture.”
A peace studies major at Whitworth, Bennett has developed a strong academic interest in international relations and global justice. She credits her academic experience, particularly the university’s Tanzania Study Program led by Megan Hershey, Ph.D., and Alisha Epps, Ph.D., with inspiring her passion for East Africa.
“If not for Whitworth and the political science department, I wouldn’t have become interested in Tanzania,” Bennett says. “The study program introduced me to the country’s culture and politics and encouraged me to seek opportunities to return.”
“Jordyn is an extremely bright and caring student who participated in Whitworth's Tanzania Study Program last year where she dedicated herself to studying East African history, politics and culture,” Hershey says. “She built friendships with her Tanzanian host families and internship supervisors, which she will now deepen through further Swahili study. The CLS will equip Jordyn with valuable skills that will serve her well whether she works in East Africa or with Swahili speakers in the States.”
Bennett hopes the CLS experience will advance her long-term career goal of becoming a lawyer focused on human and civil rights. She aspires to work with legal advocacy organizations in East Africa, using her language skills and cultural knowledge to support international justice efforts.
The CLS Program is a flagship initiative of the U.S. Department of State, designed to expand the number of Americans studying and mastering critical foreign languages and engaging with cultures vital to U.S. national security and global engagement.
About Whitworth University:
Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of about 2,500 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Contacts:
Trisha Coder, associate director of media relations, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu.
