HISTORY

The Institute for Central American Development Studies (ICADS) was created in 1986 to fill the information gap in foreign policy between United States citizens and their government.

In conversation with scholars actively engaged in research in Central America, it was concluded that the best way to go about gaining a deeper understanding is through both rigorous academic study and social engagement with real Central American communities that are working to solve some of the most challenging problems of the day.

In today’s increasingly connected and globalized world, we at ICADS believe it is now more important than ever to understand the complex issues impacting the peoples of both the global North and South.

Twenty-five years after the founding of ICADS, we remain committed to providing opportunities for language and cultural immersion through classes and community work, as well as access to background information, scholarly materials, lectures and contact with “regular” Central Americans, who are the real experts when it comes to Central American life.