About the Center

The Center for Islam in the Contemporary World (CICW) at Shenandoah University is an independent academic center engaged in research, teaching, training, and outreach on issues related to Islam and Muslims in contemporary contexts. CICW utilizes interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches from diverse academic specializations. It is involved in inter-faith education and outreach, connecting Shenandoah University to local, national, and global Muslim communities.

Why CICW?

There is an ever-increasing need to understand the global interconnectedness of the world we share. As the second-largest religion in the world, Islam and Muslims occupy an important place in the global landscape of religions, cultures, and societies. CICW contributes to Shenandoah University by connecting Shenandoah University’s global orientation to the rich tapestry of contemporary Muslim cultures and societies.

What we do?

• Provide a forum for teaching, learning, and critical engagement with Islam and Muslim societies in contemporary contexts
• Pursue scholarly and intercultural activities that highlight Islam and its relationship with other world religions
• Develop research and training in faith-based and faith-inclusive pedagogies for schools and colleges
• Teach cultural skills, competencies, and literacy necessary for the understanding of Islam and Muslims in contemporary world

Our relationship with Shenandoah University

The Center for Islam in the Contemporary World (CICW) has signed an affiliation agreement with Shenandoah University. The Center acquired use of Shenandoah University's offices, classrooms, and library, while providing its expertise on Islam in the contemporary world, and supporting curriculum, student, and faculty development at Shenandoah University. To learn more about Shenandoah University, please visit its page here.