Recognizing excellence in international trade was the goal of the World Trade Center Tacoma’s annual Globe Awards gala on November 19. Living up to its name by winning one of the three top awards, the Center of Excellence for Global Trade and Supply Chain Management earned 2015 Service Provider of the Year.
Housed at Highline College, the Center of Excellence works with the college to serve as an educational resource around international trade. Together, they coordinate statewide education and training efforts as well as bring together a partnership with the industry cluster tied to trade. This collaboration helps build a competitive workforce in a global economy.
Dr. Jack Bermingham
“With the Center of Excellence, Highline College is truly a center for international business and trade expertise,” said Dr. Jack Bermingham, President of Highline College. “The Center of Excellence — along with the college’s new four-year degree in Global Trade and Logistics — demonstrates Highline’s ongoing commitment to meet ever-changing educational and economic development needs in advancing Washington’s global competitiveness.”
Highline’s new bachelor’s degree supports Washington state’s major policy direction for higher education by expanding access in global trade. It is one example of how the Center of Excellence works with strategic partners for the long-term economic growth and stability of the state and region. Within the business community, the Center of Excellence has received enthusiastic support for increasing capacity in global trade.
Founded in 2004, the Center of Excellence is a perfect fit for Highline’s campus, given its location at the heart of international business and trade. The main campus is just south of SeaTac International Airport and between the sea ports of Seattle and Tacoma.
Dr. Meg Ryan
Dr. Meg Ryan, who serves as director of the Center of Excellence, accepted the award at WTC Tacoma’s 22nd annual gala. The awards gala is the largest annual trade gathering in Washington state, with more than 300 people attending.
In addition to recognizing companies for excellence in international trade, the Globe Awards acknowledge the importance of trade to Washington’s economy.
In related news earlier this year, Ryan was one of ten Centers of Excellence directors in Washington state to earn the Idahlynn Karre Exemplary Leadership award.
Questions?
Contact Dr. Meg Ryan at mryan@highline.edu or (253) 222-4575.