Worldwide | College of Arts & Sciences Annual Report (23-24)

COUNTERING HUMAN TRAFFICKING THROUGH EDUCATION

MASSIVE OPEN ONLINE COURSE (MOOC) ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide Campus created a unique online course that comprehensively explores the threat of human trafficking and potential responses. This globally accessible course promotes responsible global citizenship. The course examines the complexities of human trafficking, delving into its root causes and far- reaching consequences for individuals and communities. Through engaging lessons, case studies, interviews with experts and interactive discussions, participants gain the skills to identify key indicators of human trafficking, support survivors and contribute to prevention efforts. This MOOC is a collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT) and co-sponsored by our M.S. in Human Security and Resilience and B.S. in Communication programs.

Human trafficking is a global issue that often involves air transport. Our college feels a strong responsibility to contribute to national awareness efforts in combating this crime. We have partnered with the Blue Lightning Initiative to deliver awareness webinars to Embry-Riddle students, faculty and staff across the country and around the world. This engagement aligns with several of our degree programs, including our B.S. in Communication with a new Risk, Crisis and Resilience Specialization; our online M.S. in Human Security and Resilience; and our online B.S. in Homeland Security, which has just become the first accredited homeland security bachelor’s program nationwide. Building on this commitment, we actively participated in January’s Human Trafficking Awareness Month, including “Wear Blue Day” — a campaign by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Lightning Initiative to educate the public about recognizing human trafficking indicators. Our college encouraged faculty and staff to wear blue and send selfies in support. Additionally, Dean Siedschlag represented the academic community at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT) Anti-Trafficking Summit in February, speaking about Embry-Riddle’s contributions to the Blue Lightning Initiative.

2023 - 2024 Annual Report | 13

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