International Congress at Veni Creator Christian University Unites Voices From Three Continents
For three days in December, the campus of Veni Creator Christian University (https://www.venicreator.education) became a crossroads of global thought as scholars, professionals, and students gathered for the III CIVENI – Third International Multidisciplinary Congress. The event, held December 11–13, brought together participants from the United States, Brazil, Europe, and Asia to explore how innovation, justice, and human dignity intersect in a rapidly changing world.
The congress unfolded inside a building steeped in academic history — the former Stetson University campus — now home to Veni Creator Christian University in the master planned community of Celebration, a city known for its cultural identity and forward thinking design.
A University Connecting Cultures and Expanding Access to U.S. Higher Education
The congress was organized by Veni Creator Christian University, a U.S.-based institution offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs entirely in Portuguese, with certifications valid across the United States. The model has positioned the university as a gateway for Brazilian and international students seeking American academic credentials without language barriers.
Throughout the event, participants experienced firsthand the university’s growing network of partnerships with institutions across Latin America and Europe — a reflection of its mission to serve as an academic bridge between continents.
“The congress was not just about discussing ideas, but about living the academic experience in a space that connects history, innovation, and international education,” said Dr. Mariane Camargo Priesnitz, professor and international event coordinator.
Innovation Anchored in Ethics, Justice, and Human Dignity
Panels and lectures throughout the congress emphasized a central message: innovation must be guided by ethical responsibility and a commitment to humanity.
Brazilian professor and attorney Dr. Eloy Lemos Junior underscored the importance of integrating knowledge across disciplines.
“Innovation only makes sense when it is aligned with justice and human dignity. Events like CIVENI create the space needed for this critical reflection.”
Dr. Maria Emilia Camargo, International Rector of Veni Creator Christian University, highlighted the congress’s global character:
“CIVENI represents the union of different cultures and areas of knowledge, showing that academic excellence can and should be accessible, international, and socially engaged.”
From the United States, Ph.D. Cristiane Barreto, specialist in Social Psychology and Management, drew attention to the human dimension of leadership.
“The congress brings attention to the emotional, social, and ethical aspects of innovation, which are often overlooked in traditional academic forums.”
Entrepreneurship, Culture, and Sustainability in Focus
The congress also explored how entrepreneurship intersects with cultural responsibility and environmental awareness.
Esp. Steffano Bruno Souza Meneghel, entrepreneur and Wharton School specialist, shared insights from his work in gastronomy and cultural research.
“Entrepreneurship today must be rooted in responsibility, toward people, culture, and the environment. Innovation without values is incomplete.”
His perspective echoed a broader theme of the event: innovation must serve society, not just markets.
Students Experience International Education Beyond Borders
The congress drew students from across the country, including Amanda Vieira, a master’s student in International Law who traveled from California to attend.
“Being here allowed me to connect theory with practice and to truly understand the international dimension of Veni Creator,” she said.
Brazilian law consultant and professor Patricia Portugal emphasized the university’s role in shaping globally minded professionals.
“Veni Creator prepares students not only academically, but also culturally and ethically, for a globalized professional environment.”
Event coordinator Dr. Mariane Camargo Priesnitz noted the diversity of the gathering:
“We welcomed around 50 speakers from Brazil, the United States, and several countries across Europe and Asia, creating a unique space for exchanging knowledge and strengthening cultural ties.”
A Vision Rooted in Purpose and Global Connection
For Acilina Candeia, CEO and founder of Veni Creator Christian University, the III CIVENI reflects the institution’s long term mission.
“Our goal is to connect knowledge, nations, and people. Hosting CIVENI at our headquarters allowed participants to experience the heart of Veni Creator and to see how international education can transform lives.”
With its blend of academic rigor, cultural diversity, and ethical reflection, the III CIVENI reaffirmed its role as a global platform committed to shaping innovation that serves humanity, today and in the years ahead.
