The cultural diversity of the University’s 2,000-plus international students will be celebrated starting Monday with the kickoff of the University’s annual International Week festivities.

International Week logo

This year’s iWeek T-shirt was designed by Annis Leung, a graduate student from Hong Kong.

Internationa Week shirt

This year’s iWeek plans include dinners, dance parties and a talent show.  The activities are sponsored by the International Student Services Office and various student organizations and campus departments.

The opening event, Passport to the World, is slated for 12 to 2 p.m. Monday, April 5, in the Student Union Galaxy Rooms.  Participants will represent their countries through creativity in clothing, cuisine, design and artifacts.  Judges from across campus will choose the best food, national dress and overall display.

Passport to the World performances will include African drumming ensemble Ayubu Kamau Kings and Queens; musical  group Parranda Venezuela; and the UTDance Ensemble.

The International Talent Show is set for Friday, April 9, at 7 p.m. in the Conference Center and will feature song and dance from around the globe.  The program will include the announcement of the winners from Passport to the World.

Other iWeek activities include:

  • Study Abroad Booth, April 5 and 9, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Student Union.
  • Henna by Jumana, April 6, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Women’s Center Conference Room, McDermott Library.
  • International Potluck Dinner, April 6, 6 p.m., Phase VIII clubhouse.
  • Table Tennis Tournament, April 7, 8:30 p.m.–12 a.m., Activity Center main gym.
  • World Beats Dance Party, April 9, after the International Talent Show, Student Union Galaxy Rooms.

This year’s iWeek T-shirt was designed by Annis Leung, an international student from Hong Kong and a graduate emerging media and communications student in the School of Arts and Humanities.

“The shirt design emerged from a thought about the passport stamps you get when going from one country to another, as well as the iWeek opening event, Passport to the World,” Leung said.  “So, the shirt you get is your passport stamp for iWeek.”

In recognition of iWeek, a collection of books and art from around the world, including a special selection of children’s books, will be on display on the fourth floor of the McDermott Library April 5-9.

International Week runs through April 9, and all students, faculty and staff are invited to participate.