SIUE’s International Trade Center Dir. Receives NASBITE Credential

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Director of the International Trade Center Silvia Torres Bowman has been designated a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP). The National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE International) awarded the high credential on Jan. 13.

Torres joins an elite, worldwide group of only 1,664 professionals who have passed a rigorous written examination. The exam, testing the knowledge, skills and abilities required of a global executive, took place in mid-December.

Torres believes the credential acknowledges her years of experience in the field. “This certification provides a fair recognition of my knowledge and solidifies my commitment to professional development and international business education,” she said.

CGBP credentialed individuals have met a series of standards set by the international organization. Those standards include tenure in the profession, education, demonstrated competency in global commerce and a commitment to service to small and medium-sized businesses conducting international trade activities.

“My goal is to further develop our international trade programs and implement new projects that can better serve our School of Business faculty, students and the business community in general,” added Torres. “It also is my hope that SIUE gets to be added to the exclusive list of accredited CGBP training programs in the country.”

NASBITE International President Laura Wolff said the credential was created to assure expertise in all areas of business rather than a specific segment. “The credential requires expertise across global marketing, global management, supply chain and trade finance,” added Wolff.

Wolff is an instructor in the SIUE Department of Economics and Finance. She said Torres’ recognition provides SIUE and the School of Business with an expert in the practice of international business.

“For the University, it means we have access to a person who knows the global business practices,” said Wolff. “If we do global business better, there will be more business, which is an important goal for our economy, especially at this time.”

“I look forward to continuing to work with other trade organizations around the world to advance the practice of international business,” added Torres.

NASBITE International is a professional organization for the global business community. Their mission is to advance global business practice, education, and training around the world.