The University of Oregon joined institutions across the country in celebrating International Education Month, a national initiative created by the U.S. State and Education departments to highlight the enduring power of international experiences and cross‑cultural engagement.
The Division of Global Engagement (DGE) hosted 57 events and welcomed more than 1,000 students to programs throughout international education month. From cultural celebrations to academic exchanges, each activity invited students to explore global perspectives and participate in the international community at the UO.
“This year, the UO expanded its celebration to include a full month of events to celebrate the transformative power of global learning,” said Dennis Galvan, Vice Provost for Global Engagement.
“Even as international tensions rise, we see our students, faculty, and staff’s desire for deep, meaningful connections with the world growing stronger than ever,” he said. “International Education Month was a vital opportunity to recognize how cross-cultural exchange prepares our community, especially our students, for jobs and lives connected to a rapidly changing world.”
Highlights of the month included:
- Celebration of International Music hosted by the Global Studies Institute
A vibrant showcase of global traditions, instruments, and performances brought students together through sound, rhythm, and cultural expression. - GEO Study Abroad Fair hosted by Global Education Oregon (GEO)
Hundreds of students explored international programs, scholarships, and academic opportunities, demonstrating extraordinary interest on campus in studying abroad. - Exchange Student Mixer hosted by International Student and Scholar Services and Global Education Oregon
This collaboration between International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) and Global Education Oregon (GEO) created space for international and domestic students to build friendships and share experiences.
“International Education Month demonstrated that UO students are eager to learn from the world and contribute to it,” Galvan said. “Through global experiences, international partnerships, and intercultural exchange, the University of Oregon continues to prepare students for futures defined by curiosity, empathy, and global citizenship.”
Peyton Hall, GEO’s recruitment and relations coordinator shared “International Education Month is an incredible opportunity for UO’s students, staff, faculty, and community members to explore and celebrate the profound impact of global perspectives, not just abroad, but right here on our campus and in our local community. As we expanded our programming from one week to a full month, it was incredible to collaborate with even more campus partners, clubs, and organizations that share an appreciation for cross-cultural exchange.”
The Division of Global Engagement (DGE) comprises three different units supporting global engagement:
- Global Education Oregon (GEO) continues to see extraordinary student engagement, achieving record study and intern abroad enrollment for the fourth consecutive year. Even in uncertain times, students demonstrate a powerful desire for global education, study abroad, and immersive learning.
- International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) supported a wide range of cultural programs and student engagement activities during IEM, fostering belonging for UO’s international community and enhancing cross‑cultural understanding.
- Global Studies Institute (GSI) helped connect faculty, researchers, and the community through globally focused lectures and partnerships that expanded the academic reach of IEM.