International Education Week

International Education Week (IEW), November 16-20, 2026 is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.

This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education is part of a national effort to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences. View short video clip of IEW 2022.

International Education Week Events

Monday, Nov 16

International Parade of Flags | 4:00 p.m. Rosemont Gate Entrance (please arrive by 3:30 p.m.)

Join us for our colorful opening parade of flags which will proceed through campus from Rosemont Gate to Coblentz Hall. Students, staff, faculty, and community members are invited to participate, so sign up to carry a flag! For more info, contact al-dajane@hood.edu. 

Opening Ceremony | 4:30 p.m. Front of Coblentz Hall

The opening IEW address will include an inclusive multifaith blessing by Rev. Beth O'Malley, opening remarks by President, Dr. Ricker.  For more info, contact al-dajane@hood.edu.

Optional International-Themed Meal | 5:00 p.m. Coblentz Hall

Join us for an international-themed meal at Coblentz Hall to enjoy some global flavors from around the world! Volunteers will receive free meal tickets for this event. For more info, contact al-dajane@hood.edu.

Tuesday, Nov 17

Walk the World with Wellness | 12:30 - 2 p.m. Whitaker Atrium

Walk the World at Hood! Join Wellness to explore our new indoor walking trail on the first floor of Whitaker, featuring signage that highlights the many countries represented within the Hood community. Stop by to learn about upcoming International Education Week events, discover ways to support your well-being through physical activity, and pick up some free giveaways. Participants can also join a guided walk and learn about the diverse cultures that make Hood a global community.

Diwali Celebration | 4:30 p.m. Whitaker Commons

Join us for this beautiful traditional Hindu festival of lights organized by our Indian students. For info about this event, contact the International Student Office.

Wednesday, Nov 18

International Student Lunch | 12 - 1 p.m. Coblentz seminar room (RSVP required)

This interactive student panel will include both international undergrad and grad students who will share their experiences with adapting to life and studies in the U.S., and tips for successfully navigating different cultures.
For more info, contact Study Abroad.

Art, Displacement, and Belonging: 75 Years of the Refugee Convention | 4 - 6 p.m. Beneficial-Hodson Library and Learning Commons

Join us as we mark 75 years since the adoption of the 1951 Refugee Convention. This event explores the intersection of art, displacement, and belonging. The event will start with a panel featuring Hood faculty and conclude with an interactive art exhibit. All members of the Hood community are welcome. Free refreshments provided.

Thursday, Nov 19

International Jeopardy | 1 - 2 p.m. Coblentz seminar room 

Test your knowledge and learn something new at International Jeopardy! Join us for a fun and interactive game featuring questions about cultures, countries, traditions, food, and more from around the world! Come play, learn, and celebrate our global community.

The Great War and Great Flu Come to the Mother Continent | 6 p.m. Hodson Auditorium, Rosenstock Hall

The First World War began in Africa on Aug 3, 1914, six days after hostilities began in Europe. Across the continent, the miserable yoke of European imperialism was felt by local people forced into a conflict they did not ask for. Join us for an immersive historical evening exploring one of World War I’s most grueling theaters. We will host a screening of “Chasing the Phantom”, a 2007 Lucasfilm documentary that follows the legendary campaign of German General Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck, the "Lion of Africa", who led a guerrilla campaign with African askaris through East Africa. His forces evaded capture throughout the war, laying down their arms only two weeks after the Armistice of 1918.
After the film, we will discuss WWI’s devastating impact on Africa, including the 1918 influenza pandemic. The Great Flu would inflict a terrible toll on both the Lion’s malnourished troops and on the peoples of Africa, one often overlooked in tales of WWI.

Friday Nov 20

International Food Tasting| 12 - 1:30 p.m. Whitaker Atrium

Join us for a delicious journey around the world! Explore diverse cultures, traditions, and connect with our international community in an immersive experience. Enjoy vibrant displays and sample foods from Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, South America, and the Middle East.

Global Nutrition Mythbusters | TBD

A fun and interactive nutrition trivia event exploring international food traditions, common nutrition myths, and cultural differences. Participants will have the opportunity to test their nutrition knowledge while learning about diverse food cultures from around the world.

Professional Networking Tips for International Students | 2 - 3:30 p.m. Career Center

Build your confidence and make meaningful connections! Join us for a session on professional networking tips designed for international students. Learn how to introduce yourself, grow your professional network, navigate networking events, and connect with employers and professionals in your field. Students will have the opportunity to obtain their professional headshot for LinkedIn.

Hood College's International Education Week (IEW) co-sponsored by:
The Graduate School | Division of Community & Inclusivity  | International Student Services | Office of the Dean of the Chapel | Student Life  | Study Abroad | Campus Activities Board (CAB) | Department of Psychology and Counseling