International Education Week
Western Michigan University’s Haenicke Institute for Global Education announces International Education Week (IEW) 2026. Join us as we celebrate global diversity and explore cross-cultural connections November 8–15, 2026.
Spread the Word
2026 Event Listing
Monday, Nov. 9
- Mahjong 101: Mechanics & Strategy, Learning the Rules, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Room 1320 Sangren Hall
Join WMU Asian Initiatives at their Understanding China workshop series on the popular game Mahjong. This session will provide a step-by-step breakdown of fundamental rules, tile combinations, scoring logic, and essential table etiquette for beginners. All are welcome; online registration requested.
Tuesday, Nov. 10
- Voices Across Borders: The College of Education and Human Development International Student Experience, 12 to 1:30 p.m., Virtual
What is it like to pursue a degree thousands of miles from home? Hear directly from international students as they share their stories of cultural exchange, resilience, and life at WMU. Connect, ask questions, and celebrate the diverse global perspectives shaping the future of education and human development. Join the virtual event.
- Understanding China: Mahjong 101, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Sangren Hall, Room 1320
Learn the mechanics and strategy behind the popular Mahjong game. Join WMU Asian Initiatives staff for a step-by-step breakdown of fundamental rules, tile combinations, scoring logic, and essential table etiquette for beginners. All are welcome; online registration requested.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
- Fulbright Awards for Faculty and Staff: Scholar, Specialist, and International Education Administrator Programs Explained, 11 a.m. to noon, Virtual
The Fulbright US Scholar Program offers opportunities in 120+ countries to teach, research or undertake a professional project. All are invited to learn more about the awards and the application process from the WMU Fulbright Scholar Liaison and the College of Education and Human Development. Join the virtual event. - Global Showcase, 2 to 4 p.m., WMU Student Center
Join us for a Student Center takeover. Meet and connect with WMU study abroad faculty leaders. Learn more about their upcoming study abroad programs and find out which program may be a good fit for you.
- A Multimedia Approach to Integrate Language, Culture, and Art, 12 to 1 p.m., Student Center, Room 2213
Join WMU Asian Initiatives and the Department of World Languages and Literatures for a Brown Bag Talk by Dr. Xiaojun Wang, professor of Chinese, and Gloria Gao, Ph.D. student. The two will discuss their development of a multimedia learning resource that emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to Chinese studies. Free lunchboxes provided. Registration required.
- Study Abroad and Global Engagement Table, 1:30 to 5 p.m., Ackley Hall/Shilling HallLearn more about study abroad and the Global Engagement Program by speaking with program alumni.
- Study Abroad Virtual Information Session, 2:30 to 3 p.m., Virtual
A Study Abroad Virtual Information Session is the first step in your journey overseas. Join us online to discuss frequently asked questions and guide students on how to find the study abroad program for you. Sign up online.
- Mahjong 101: Guided Gameplay & Practical Tactics, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Student Center, Room 2213
Join WMU Asian Initiatives at their Understanding China workshop series on the popular game Mahjong. This day's gameplay will be a hands-on, coached session focusing on practical play, tile management, and interactive strategy in a relaxed environment. All are welcome; online registration requested.
- Lohr Memorial Colloquy Series Lecture: Dynamics of ancient textile production in Burkina Faso, Case of Moosé Group, 4:30 p.m., 1115 Moore Hall
Dr. Jocelyne Vokouma of the Department of Socioeconomics and Development Anthropology at the Institute of Social Studies, Burkina Faso, will present research into the weaving and dyeing of fabrics over the past 30 years. The event is part of the Lohr Memorial Colloquy Series, hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences's Institute for Intercultural and Anthropological Studies. A reception will follow the presentation. Register online by Nov. 2.
- Global Tasting with Campus Activities Board, 6 to 8 p.m., Student Center
Expand your palate and explore flavors from around the world. This event invites you to sample a variety of international foods while learning about the cultures and traditions behind each dish. Join us for an evening of delicious food, cultural exploration, and meaningful connections. No passport required!
- Global Journaling, 7 to 8 p.m., Student Center, Room 2208
Join the journaling club for a combination of crafts and yaps! They bring the supplies, and you bring yourself and a journal. This week's theme is global.
Thursday, Nov. 12
- Study Abroad Pop-Up Fair with the College of Education and Human Development, 10 a.m. to noon, Sangren Hall, 1st Floor Atrium
Drop by this come-and-go event to learn more about the College of Education and Human Development's study abroad offerings and plan your next trip.
- Conversation Circle Thanksgiving Potluck, 3 to 4 p.m.,1024 Lee Honors College
Help international students make connections and practice conversational English. All are invited to this weekly event hosted by the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students. Learn about different cultures while having fun with people from around the world. Bring a favorite international dish to share.
International Mixer, 4 to 6 p.m., Sangren Hall, Room 2510
Join the College of Education and Human Development to celebrate the contributions of its international students, faculty, and staff. All are invited to gather, network and engage with our international colleagues and representatives from the Haenicke Institute for Global Education.- College Night at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts with the Global Engagement Program, 6 to 8 p.m., 4102 Stadium Dr.
Enjoy a free evening for college students at the museum with food, music, games and art. Ride the bus with the Global Engagement Program from campus to downtown and engage in the exhibits, while earning GEP credit. Exhibits with a global or intercultural focus include: "Among the Beasts: Wild, Tamed & Imagined" and "Statement Pieces: Fashioning the Self & Society." Register on Experience WMU.
- Fulbright Information Table, 1 to 3 p.m., Waldo Library
The Fulbright Program is an international academic exchange hosted by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. There is an extensive suite of fellowships and scholarships in partnership with more than 160 countries worldwide. Stop by the table to learn more.
Friday, Nov. 13
- Fulbright US Scholar Program Online Workshop, 11 a.m. to noon, virtualThe Fulbright US Scholar Program offers opportunities in 120+ countries to teach, research or undertake a professional project. Faculty are invited to learn more about the awards and the application process from the WMU Fulbright Scholar Liaison.
Saturday, Nov. 14
- Tai Chi and Meditation, 11 a.m. to noon., Kalamazoo Public Library, Oshtemo Branch, 7265 W Main St.
Join WMU Asian Initiatives for an introduction to Tai Chi. Learn basic moves that you can do at home! Registration required.
2025 Student Features
For International Education Week last year, we invited the University community to share stories of travel and international student success—and wow, did they deliver! See below for Broncos who are taking their education beyond borders.
Accessibility
We are happy to provide reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact the Haenicke Institute for Global Education staff at least 5 business days before the event.