LCC International University, with 30 years of experience in training servant leaders, has overcome many challenges to begin a new academic year with more than 700 students.
KLAIPEDA, Lithuania (Mennonite Mission Network) — As a fourth-year university student at LCC International University in Lithuania, Hadiah* is worried about more than completing her thesis for graduation. Her parents, who live in Kabul, Afghanistan, fear the uncertainties of Taliban rule. COVID-19 cases are rising. When her husband, Didar*, graduates in December, will her migration status allow her to stay in Lithuania to complete her education?
LCC is no stranger to risk-taking. In addition to providing a strong academic program, this Mennonite Mission Network partner exemplifies a relational educational model with a global reach. LCC has 30 years of experience as a diverse learning community that trains people to be servant leaders.
Launched in 1991, the school was founded to provide value-based education in Lithuania — the first country to declare independence from the Soviet Union. After a decade of demonstrating resilience in the face of many challenges, LCC achieved university status. In 2004, LCC ventured beyond Lithuania’s borders to recruit students from Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine. Now, in 2021, more than 700 students from 54 countries attend LCC.
The community focuses on living and learning together in class and through intentional learning programs in the residence halls. Instructors frequently address students from 8-10 different cultures in one class. Students from Ukraine are roommates with students from Russia. Students from Armenia learn about Albanian traditions. Students from Lithuania eat dinner cooked by their Uzbek friends. LCC’s Center for Dialogue and Conflict Transformation provides a safe space for students, as well as others in the region, who are dealing with current political and ethnic conflicts.
*Pseudonyms
