Faculty Research Grant 2022-2023

Pedro Navia (International Languages & Global Studies).

Documentary Film: Berrien Springs, MI: A New Stranger in Town.

Abstract: This project is to develop a short documentary film with the purpose of showing diversity in Berrien Springs and how Andrews University has contributed to the significant increase of diversity in population. The concept of accepting, living, and sharing spaces with strangers/foreigners has become an important topic of discussion. Many cities and small towns have decided to open their doors to immigrants while others have remained indifferent to the arrival of new inhabitants. Little is known about how Berrien Springs began to attract people from all over the world. The documentary will explore the history of this town and the changes experienced through times. Also, there will be a section indicating how Andrews University helped in shaping diversity by attracting workers from everywhere in the US as well as internationally. Considering the small permanent population of Berrien Springs, it has become one of the most diverse small towns in the State of Michigan as well as in the Midwest. The documentary will highlight the experience of several families. For example, those who can trace their roots and origins many decades ago to grandparents who moved here; others who temporarily came but decided to stay; and the lives of those who just arrived. This documentary will include the challenges faced by immigrants, as well as the point of view of those who have lived in Berrien Springs for generations and how they have seen the arrival of strangers.