MILES: Going the distance to build understanding across cultures and communities
Founded in 2026, the Center for Multicultural and Interdisciplinary Learning Experiences for Students (MILES) makes transformative learning possible through supporting intercultural study abroad and away experiences, innovative interdisciplinary course development and experiential, competition-based learning opportunities for the students. The Center advances faculty scholarship and creativity while engaging the broader community through vibrant, public facing scholarly events.
The founding of the Center for MILES reflects the vision and generosity of University of St. Thomas alumna Lisa M. Anderson, whose transformational gift created new opportunities for intercultural and interdisciplinary education, scholarship and community impact. While centered in the College of Arts and Sciences and grounded in its mission, the center's long-term goal is to serve as a catalyst for collaboration across the University.
The Common Context Initiative brings faculty, staff and students together, across disciplines and cultures, to explore shared themes, spark new conversations, and inspire collaboration.
Water is this year's Common Context theme, inviting exploration of the ways water shapes our environment, cultures, well-being, and sense of place.
Through public conversations, art exhibits, shared learning experiences, and community engagement, participants will explore water's role in our lives and communities. From the Mississippi River to the stories, histories, and often absent narratives that flow alongside it, the theme fosters new perspectives, deeper understanding, and collaboration across disciplines and cultures.
The Common Context Initiative launches with a September 14th talk by Percival Everett, Distinguished Professor of English at USC and author of the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award-winning novel James. Everett recenters Adventures of Huckleberry Finn through Jim's journey along the Mississippi River, revealing his "agency, intelligence and compassion." Everett's fresh perspective makes the novel an ideal starting point for the Common Context Initiative's exploration of shared themes, meaningful dialogue, and new ways of understanding the world.
