Gadsden, AL – The Division of Languages and Humanities, the Alabama Language Institute, and the Students Without Borders Club at Gadsden State Community College will celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide during International Education Week (IEW), Nov. 18-22.
Gadsden State has an impressive history in international programming. The Alabama Language Institute (ALI), founded in 1973, holds the distinction of being the oldest English language institute in the Southeast. For decades, ALI has been instrumental in helping students enhance their English proficiency to achieve personal and professional goals.
“ALI enhances language skills and provides a supportive environment where students at any proficiency level can learn English, learn about American culture, and connect with peers around the world,” said Patricia Wilborn, ALI director and chair of the Division of Languages and Humanities. “ALI empowers students to build confidence, open doors to new opportunities, and fully engage in their educational journey in the U.S.”
IEW will kick off on Nov. 18 with an emailed video featuring U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken discussing the importance of international education. IEW is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education.
“International Education Week is an important opportunity to celebrate cultural exchange, learning, and global understanding,” Wilborn said. “This week allows our students to broaden their perspectives and appreciate the rich diversity that connects us all.”
This year’s IEW theme, “Explore,” encourages participants to delve into unfamiliar cultures, languages, and ideas. “The theme ‘Explore’ is about opening ourselves to new experiences and understanding the world beyond our own borders,” Wilborn explained.
Week’s Activities
- Nov. 18-21: A four-day digital trivia contest for Gadsden State students and employees. Trivia questions about the history of the college’s International Programs will be emailed daily, and winners will receive international-themed prizes from ALI.
- Nov. 19: The popular International Tea event will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in ALI’s new home on the second floor of Allen Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus. Open to the public, it will feature teas and beverages from countries including Ukraine, Togo, Jordan, the Congo, Guatemala, and Vietnam.
- Nov. 20: Faith Dobbs, an academic advisor, will host a study abroad information session from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in Room 239 of Allen Hall.
- Nov. 21: The week will conclude with the screening of an international film at 3 p.m. in Room 126 of Allen Hall. The film title will be announced later.
Additionally, the Cardinal Arts Journal is partnering with the Students Without Borders Club to develop a special “Cardinal Perspectives” section for its upcoming issue, “Telling Our Stories.” Current and former international students are encouraged to submit stories, poems, or artwork by Nov. 16 to [email protected].
“During International Education Week, our hope is that students and employees will participate in the week’s activities to connect with diverse cultures and explore what it means to be part of a global community,” Wilborn said. “It’s a chance to learn, engage, and grow together.”
Currently, Gadsden State hosts over 40 internationally-born students from 21 countries, representing more than 50 language groups worldwide.
