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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville celebrated International Education Week (IEW) beginning with the Flag Ceremony which opened up the festivities on Monday, Nov. 18. IEW, a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of State, aims to observe the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. IEW supported several additional events, including cultural performances, a showcase on SIUE’s Study Abroad program, international student ally training and a Thanksgiving Social.

Beginning with the Flag Ceremony, student volunteers carried the flag of their home country and processed around the Stratton Quadrangle and the Morris University Center (MUC). The festive, exuberant atmosphere recognized the 64 countries and 956 enrolled international students at SIUE. Students participated in drumming, dancing and communicating in their native languages.

Elza Ibroscheva, PhD, Associate Provost and professor of mass communications was the guest speaker at the opening flag ceremony. Originally from Bulgaria, Ibroscheva is a recognized scholar in gender representation, political communication and Eastern European media.

“We are so proud of our vibrant international community which enriches our campus life and enhances out academic environment,” said Ibroscheva. “This ceremony is a powerful symbol of our rich diversity and offers a unique opportunity for our students to proudly present their nations and their cultures. It is a moment to celebrate the global community that we have right here at SIUE.

“Talk Around The World, an event held on Tuesday, Nov. 19 in the Goshen Lounge, celebrated the international languages spoken at SIUE. Languages were paired with activities and games. It was a hit with resident students. Sara Duft, international student program advisor and designated school official in the Office of International Affairs, said the event was designed to be interactive with the American students.

“The event was led completely by our international students, faculty and staff,” said Duft. “Each language had its own booth on display with interactive activities, targeting both American and fellow international visitors.”

Earlier Monday, the Office of International Affairs hosted Global Zone, a training session educating citizen faculty and staff members on the journey of incoming international students. The eye-opening training provided tools and resources for University members on how to be an ally for the visiting students.

Wednesday, Nov. 20 held the Study Abroad Showcase. The showcase served as an introduction for enrolled students to consider learning abroad through an SIUE-supported structure.

“The Study Abroad Showcase provides an opportunity for the SIUE community to meet students and faculty who have studied abroad, to hear about their experiences and learn about their host country.” said Duft.

On Thursday, Nov. 22, international students received a taste of American culture from the International Affairs team with a cozy Thanksgiving social. International students from across the campus community joined together for the fall feast in the Legacy Room of the MUC and were treated to a hot meal and an afternoon of activities before the closing ceremony. The spirit of Thanksgiving was in abundance with glittering fall crafts, gratitude-sharing festivities and golden pumpkin pie slices.

“One of my favorite things about international education is the chance to share cultures and traditions. Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays, so I love that we get to share the meaning and some of the traditions with our students, both international and domestic,” said Duft.

After the Thanksgiving Social, SIUE invited Taiko drummers for a demonstration in the Goshen Lounge to close out IEW with a high-energy performance. Taiko drummers are traditional Japanese percussionists. The closing ceremony was filled with heritage and warmth.

The Office of International Affairs uses IEW as a path to continue international collaboration and acknowledge the cultural contributions of students from diverse backgrounds. SIUE is a leader in celebrating diversity and the growth of the International Student program from last year bolsters their mission in fostering a diverse atmosphere on campus.

PHOTOS: International students at SIUE, Elza Ibroscheva, PhD, Taiko drummers