The Copernicus Center for Polish Studies (CCPS) at the University of Michigan was honored to host Regina Jurkowska, the Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago, last week for a series of events at Weiser Hall.
On Thursday, September 17, students, faculty, and members of the local Polish-American community engaged Consul Jurkowska in a conversation about Poland’s growing presence in the Midwest. In response to questions about U.S.-Poland relations and the Polish diaspora, she emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between Poland and Polish communities through language and cultural events. Drawing on her own studies in Hungary, she highlighted the role of education in fostering lasting international relationships and encouraging cross-cultural understanding.
The next day, Consul Jurkowska met with undergraduate students in the Program in International and Comparative Studies (PICS) to discuss career opportunities in diplomacy and foreign service. Students asked about her path into the field, the challenges she has encountered, and the experiences she has found most meaningful during her diplomatic career.
Consul Jurkowska joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland in 1998 and has held diplomatic posts in Uruguay, Colombia, and Australia. In recognition of her diplomatic service, she has received several honors, including the Golden Cross of Merit of the Republic of Hungary (2018) and the Golden Cross of Merit of the Republic of Poland (2022).
