Lakeland hosted a group from Esslingen, Germany, on Friday for a tour of the main campus and a chance to learn more about Lakeland and its programs.
The city of Sheboygan is hosting the delegation from its sister city, Esslingen, Germany, and the group or nearly two dozen is here for a week to visit a number of places in the region.
Lakeland provided an overview of its history, which dates back to its founding in 1862 by the Germans who settled this area. The visitors had a chance to see a number of books written in German, including some from the 1500s that were brought by the original settlers that are now housed in Lakeland's archive.
Lakeland also provided an overview of its current academic programs, the Cooperative Education program and its international exchange programs. Lakeland and Esslingen University of Applied Sciences are currently in discussions to create a new exchange program for students and faculty.
The visit by the Esslingen delegation will culminate with the fourth annual Esslingen Fest on Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at 3 Sheeps Brewing Company, 1837 North Ave., in Sheboygan. Hosted by the Sheboygan Mayor's International Committee, the free event features German food, craft beer, music and prizes to celebrate Sheboygan's Sister City relationship with Esslingen.