Succeeding globally is theme of International Education Week
by Jeanne Baron
Nov. 1, 2011 | WMU News
WMU celebrates international education Nov. 14-19.
KALAMAZOO--Western Michigan University will highlight a variety of countries and cultures during its
International Education Week, set for Monday through Saturday,
Nov. 14-19.
Numerous entertaining and educational events have been scheduled for the local observance on WMU's main campus throughout the week, and most are free and open to the public. "International Education: Inspiring Students Locally to Succeed Globally" is this year's theme for the week, which is being organized by the University's Haenicke Institute for Global Education and precedes the 2011 Kalamazoo Russian Festival being held Saturday, Nov. 19, at WMU.
A joint initiative of the U.S. departments of State and Education, the week promotes programs that not only prepare Americans for a global environment, but also attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn and exchange experiences in the United States.
The theme reflects sentiments about International Education Week expressed by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan when he said: "It celebrates the benefits of understanding the world around us so we can better communicate and collaborate with others from different cultures. It is an ideal opportunity to inspire students to broaden their horizons through global learning, foreign languages and international exchange."
Questions about WMU's International Education Week events may be directed to Denis Mursoi, WMU international programming intern, at: intl-specialprojects@wmich.edu or (269) 387-5872. A partial list of the week's events follows.
WMU International Education Week events
All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.
Monday, Nov. 14
- CELCIS Language Exchange--2 to 4 p.m., Room 208, Bernhard Center. How quickly can you learn a foreign language? Have fun while testing your skills with international students.
- China Quiz Bowl--6 to 8 p.m., Room 213, Bernhard Center. Team up with native Chinese speakers to test your knowledge about Chinese culture, geography and language. Meet new people and win prizes. Go to wmich.edu/confucius and register, as space is limited.
Tuesday, Nov. 15
- Kenyan Night--7 to 9 p.m., Wesley Foundation. Enjoy Kenyan cuisine, music and dance performances as students from Kenya share their culture.
Wednesday Nov. 16
- Tai Chi Hour--4 to 5 p.m., Room 213, Bernhard Center. Experience the ancient slow-motion Chinese martial art of Tai Chi. Learn about balance, strength and personal harmony. Go to wmich.edu/confucius and register, as space is limited.
- Geography Bowl--4 to 6 p.m., Room 204, Bernhard Center. Match your world geography wits in a trivia bowl presented by the Department of Geography or stop in and observe the action.
Thursday, Nov. 17
- American Thanksgiving Adventure--11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Kanley Chapel. Learn the historical background of the Thanksgiving holiday while the International Student Fellowship hosts a typical Thanksgiving dinner that includes roasted turkey, mashed potatoes and pie.
- Dominican Night--7 to 8 p.m., Kanley Chapel. Immerse yourself in the Dominican culture by viewing a photo exhibit and enjoying Dominican food and music presented by the Dominican Student Organization.
Friday, Nov. 18
- Window to China--2 to 5 p.m., Room 212, Bernhard Center. During this event, attendees can have their name painted in Chinese characters, listen to traditional Chinese instruments, wear traditional Chinese clothes, have their photo taken in front of the "Great Wall," and pick up information about WMU Chinese language and culture classes as well as study abroad opportunities and scholarships.
- Japan Festival--2:30 to 5:30 p.m., Trimpe Building. Japan's rich culture, including traditional food and dance, will be showcased by the Japan Club.
- Malaysian Night--6 to 9 p.m., Wesley Foundation. Malaysian food, fashions and dance will be featured during this event planned by the Malaysian Student Association.
Saturday, Nov. 19
- ISA-Legally Desi 2011--7 to 10 p.m., Miller Auditorium. The Indian Student Association will host Indian dance performances, skits, a multimedia presentation and a fashion show with Indian snacks. Tickets are free for WMU students and $7 for others. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Related articles
Full day of activities slated for Russian Festival
WMU professor to pay tribute to Russia in poetry and photos
