Following the Christmas holidays, Dr. Hans Hansen embarked on his yearly “transformative cross-cultural management program” with students from the College of Business at Texas Tech University. This is the 10th year Dr. Hansen has worked with CEPA to organize the program. The group stayed in grand European cities like Munich, Paris, and London.

The program was filled with numerous cultural activities and professional meetings. Some highlights include:

• Walking tours of Munich and London
• Visits to various museums, e.g. BMW Museum, and other historic sites, e.g. Tower of London
• Guided tour of the WPP Paris Campus
• TTU Alumni Networking session at Deloitte LLP in London
• Presentation of PLMR (Political Lobbying and Media Relations) London
• Guided tour of Lloyd’s of London
• Guided tour of the FC Chelsea Stadium and Museum

Many students took advantage of the free-time activity suggestions from Anna Boffo, their coordinator in London. Among these local insider tips, they especially liked the English Afternoon Tea (or “High tea”) that is traditionally served with sweet and savory treats, and the West End theatre shows.

Besides daily breakfast at each hotel, CEPA also provided delicious meals with local food at the start and at the end of the program. The welcome dinner took place at a traditional German beer hall at Augustiner Bräustuben in Munich and the farewell dinner to wrap up this exciting trip was held at Swan London (connected to Shakespeare’s Globe) which serves trendy British fine dining with stunning views of the River Thames.

We are extremely proud of the positive feedback we’ve received from the students and coordinators and wish to continue running this program successfully with Dr. Hansen for many more years to come!

Queens University students embarked on an 11-day journey through Denmark and Sweden to explore the Scandinavian approach to healthcare. Immersing themselves in the region’s healthcare systems, they examined the cultural factors that shape health and well-being.

The itinerary was filled with enriching experiences, beginning with their arrival in Copenhagen. Walking tours provided an opportunity to analyze urban infrastructure and understand how city design impacts public health.

Students met with representatives from Copenhagen’s “Green Initiative” to discuss sustainable urban development and visited BLOXHUB, the Nordic Hub for Sustainable Urbanization, to learn about responsible leadership in public health.

A major highlight was a lecture by Dr. Karsten Vrangbæk from the University of Copenhagen, a leading expert who offered an in-depth perspective on Danish healthcare policy. Hands-on activities, including urban windshield surveys and food access assessments, allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.

In Stockholm, Sweden, the group engaged with health organizations such as Swecare and the Leading Health Care Foundation. Swecare bridges public and private healthcare sectors to promote Sweden’s healthcare model globally, while the Leading Health Care Foundation is an independent think tank dedicated to improving health and social care.

Students also participated in a guided “fika” food tour, embracing the beloved Swedish tradition of gathering for coffee and pastries, and reflecting on its cultural significance.

The program blended academic learning with cultural experiences, including visits to landmarks like Christiansborg Palace and the Skansen open-air museum. The trip concluded with a farewell dinner in Stockholm, leaving students with valuable insights and a broadened perspective on global healthcare systems.