UB Joins Institutions Nationwide to Celebrate International Education Week
November 19, 2020
Contact: Office of Government and Public Affairs
Phone: 410.837.5739
The University of Baltimore joined institutions from across the state and the nation in celebrating International Education Week, Nov. 16-20, highlighted this year by a virtual gathering of 14 members of the community—students, faculty, staff and alumni—who shared their favorite memories and traditions of marking holidays around the world.
Hosted by the Office of Diversity and International Services on Nov. 18, the event featured stories that transcended national boundaries, including the Spring Festival in China, the Tihar festival in Nepal, the Fasnacht festivities in Switzerland, and the Day of Forgiveness celebration, or Sirni Zagovenzi as it is referred to in Eastern Europe and the Christian Orthodox tradition. Presenters also provided a virtual smorgasbord of culinary diversity—cuisine from the Philippines in celebration of Christmas, and the feasts prepared in Kuwait to welcome the winter season.
"These were holidays and celebrations our international community grew up with and they cherished with their loved ones," said Eleftherios Michael, director of the Office of Diversity and International Services. "Whether someone is born in a community adjacent to our campus, or in a village on the other side of the globe, our heritage is what brings us all together at The University of Baltimore."
Michael added that regardless of the pandemic, the Office of Diversity and International Services is working to prepare UB students for a global environment, and to attract future leaders from abroad to join the community and contribute to its rich heritage and traditions.
Read the University System of Maryland's recent statement on International Education Week.
Learn more about the resources available to international students at The University of Baltimore.