As International Education Week (IEW) unfolded across the nation from Nov. 13 to Nov. 17, Sacred Heart University engaged in a celebration of the benefits of global education and cross-cultural exchange through a variety of events.
According to Renee Pang, Director of the Office of Global Education, “The activities, events and conversations over the week not only create awareness, but also provide the opportunity for meaningful connections and conversations within the campus community and even across the virtual realm.”
“Additionally, numerous organizations and institutions offer online programming open to all, which allows increased access and additional opportunities in learning for SHU students, faculty and staff,” said Pang.
Source: Angelina Spiezio, Staff Photographer
Photo by: Mark F. Conrad, Sacred Heart University
According to the U.S Department of State (DOS), IEW is a joint initiative of the DOS and the U.S. Department of Education, that encourages programs that promote international education and exchange. At Sacred Heart, the festivities extended beyond the national timeframe, with the celebration commencing on Nov. 7 and continuing through Nov. 17.
“While IEW is designated for one week, SHU has often scheduled it to begin with the large celebration of Diwali, sponsored by Graduate Student Affairs, and included numerous events in October and November,” said Pang.
According to Sacred Heart’s Global Engagement website, the events included a virtual seminar on U.S. foreign policy’s role in global public health, Passport Day for first-time applicants, a Diwali Celebration, a Kristallnacht Commemoration, an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, and a session on the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program.
“International Education Week celebrates cross-cultural learning and education worldwide,” said Jess Catterson, senior global ambassador and Office of Global Affairs work study member.
The week featured information sessions on summer study abroad opportunities, discussions on international teacher exchanges, and a spotlight on educators from around the world. Additionally, SHU actively encouraged student participation through an International Photo Contest, Global Ambassador Tabling, and an Instagram takeover.
“Students have many avenues to explore in terms of International expansion,” said Catterson. “Not only does it promote inclusivity, but it also allows students to gain a deeper understanding of culture within the United States and the various countries we highlight here at SHU.”
Catterson studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark in the Spring of 2022 and became a global ambassador after returning.
“As global ambassadors, we promote international education every time we volunteer. By working on panels, holding discussions, and outreach programs, we are engaging our community to be more informed about not only study abroad opportunities but global initiatives as well,” said Catterson.
According to Sacred Heart’s website, SHU has over 60 study abroad programs in over 30 countries around the world. In the 2022-2023 school year, undergraduate and graduate students hail from over 40 countries.
“It is good to learn the cultural differences and different norms that form one country in comparison to another,” said Maryssa Kozek, the English Language Institute Director. “In the
past we have taken part in IEW by having students give cultural presentations. In the future, we hope to get back involved in it.”
According to Pang, the university fosters an environment that supports international education beyond IEW.
“The goals of IEW are inherent to the work and mission of the Office of Global Education and the larger University, so we offer programming, opportunities and courses throughout the academic year, as do our colleagues and students in other offices, organizations and departments,” said Pang.
“We’ve seen strong participation across activities and a great deal of interest in study abroad, especially at our global campus in Ireland. Our applications for summer study abroad have recently opened, so students are excited to hear from others that have gone, connect with faculty who will be teaching abroad and find a program that will match their academic/professional/personal goals,” said Pang.
