ABSTRACT
The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on American soil stunned the world. Educators were compelled to discuss international issues as they assisted their students to make sense of the national tragedy. Americans found themselves being educated by the media about distant cultures, fundamentals of different religions, and world geography. The veil of ignorance had been forcefully lifted and the time had come for American postsecondary education to prepare students in family science programs for the challenges of a new world order which demands the integration of political, economic, social, and cultural competencies. The emerging global community transcends boundaries compelling nations to clarify cultural ideals and values that are crucial for the enhancement of international relationships.
