International Education Week
Western Michigan University’s Haenicke Institute for Global Education announces International Education Week 2025. Join us as we celebrate global diversity and explore cross-cultural connections through guest lectures, panel discussions, research presentations and more. Several events are scheduled from November 3-7. All are free and open to the public.
Events Hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Light Center Guest Lecture
When AI Meets Chinese Language Teaching: How Teachers Can Thrive in the New Era.
Study Abroad Alumni Panel
WMU Study Abroad alumni will speak about their journeys around the world.
International Professionals Panel
Members of WMU’s international faculty will discuss their journey to Kalamazoo.
Research Exhibition and Presentation of Posters
A special viewing with our Global Social and Conversation Circle groups.
Study Abroad Showcase
Browse tables and learn about upcoming faculty-led study abroad experiences.
Soga Japan Center Special Talk
Streaming Samurai: Historical Japan in Contemporary Media
WMU Campus Event Listing
Monday, Nov. 3
- A Light Center Guest Lecture:"When AI Meets Chinese Language Teaching: How teachers can thrive in the new era," 3:30 to 5 p.m., 3030 Brown Hall, hosted by WMU Asian Initiatives, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Dr. Zhongqi Shi, a senior lecturer in Chinese at Columbia University, will explore how generative AI can enhance language learning—from essay feedback to speaking practice—while raising critical questions about academic integrity.
- The International Experience: Panel Discussions, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Student Center Ballroom A, hosted by International Student Council and the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Hear from WMU’s global community at two different panel discussions. WMU Study Abroad alumni will speak about their journeys around the world from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. After, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., members of WMU’s international faculty will discuss their journey to Kalamazoo.
Tuesday, Nov. 4
- Study Abroad and Global Engagement Information Table, 12:15 to 1:45 p.m., WMU Student Center, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Learn more about study abroad and the Global Engagement Program by speaking with program alumni.
- Fulbright Information Table, 2 to 4 p.m., Lee Honors College, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. The Fulbright Program is an international academic exchange program founded in 1946. Today, the U.S. government oversees an extensive suite of fellowships and scholarships in partnership with more than 160 countries worldwide. Stop by the table to learn more.
- Study Abroad Virtual Information Session, 4 to 4:30 p.m., hosted virtually by the WMU Study Abroad, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. A Virtual Information Session is one of the first steps in the study abroad process! Discuss frequently asked questions and guide students on how to find study abroad programs that meet their needs.
Wednesday, Nov. 5
- Fulbright Information Table, 11 a.m to 1 p.m. Waldo Library, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. The Fulbright Program is an international academic exchange program founded in 1946. Today, the U.S. government oversees an extensive suite of fellowships and scholarships in partnership with more than 160 countries worldwide. Stop by the table to learn more.
- Global Journaling, 1 to 2 p.m., Student Center, Room 2122, hosted by the Journaling Club. Join the weekly meeting to decompress and unwind while journaling and doing arts and crafts on global themes.
- Research Exhibition Reception and Presentation of Posters, 2-4 p.m., Student Center Lobby, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Some of WMU’s most compelling international student research will be on display at the Student Center all week. Join the Global Social and Conversation Circle groups for a special viewing.
- Study Abroad Showcase, 2 to 4 p.m., Student Center Lobby, hosted by WMU Study Abroad, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Browse tables and learn about upcoming faculty-led study abroad programs, while connecting directly with faculty leading trips in 2026.
- Fulbright U.S. Student Information Session, 4 to 5 p.m., Student Center, Room 2122, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Are you dreaming of living abroad after graduation? Learn how the Fulbright U.S. Student Program can help you make that dream a reality with full funding.
- Documentary Viewing and Community Conversation, "Separated,” 6 to 8:30 p.m., Sangren Hall, Room 1910, hosted by University Libraries in collaboration with the Lewis Walker Institute, the International Education Council of the Faculty Senate and the Kalamazoo Immigrant Solidarity Coalition. This film explores family separation at the U.S. border, weaving together the story of a migrant family with interviews and firsthand accounts. A community discussion will follow the screening.
Thursday, Nov. 6
- Fulbright Information Tables, 11 a.m to 1 p.m., Waldo Library, and 2 to 4 p.m., Lee Honors College, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. The Fulbright Program is an international academic exchange program founded in 1946. Today, the U.S. government oversees an extensive suite of fellowships and scholarships in partnership with more than 160 countries worldwide. Stop by the table to learn more.
- A Soga Japan Center Special Talk: "Streaming Samurai: Historical Japan in Contemporary Media," 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Brown Hall, Room 3025. Although the age of samurai ended more than 150 years ago, medieval Japanese warriors continue to fascinate people today as characters in video games, movies and on television. Learn more at this talk by Dr. Ethan Segal, an associate professor at Michigan State University.
- Globally Grounded: How An International Perspective Makes You a Better Professional, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Student Center Ballroom B, hosted by International Student Council, Global Ties Kalamazoo, Career and Student Employment Services and the Global Engagement Program, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Join us for an exciting event that brings together local businesses and organizations, area university faculty and local students to explore how international experiences can enhance professional growth. Enjoy an engaging panel discussion with community organizations, followed by an educational social hour, a great opportunity to learn, connect, and network!
- The First-Generation College Student Celebration, 6:30 to 9 p.m., 1st floor Sangren Hall, hosted by the College of Education and Human Development, the Office for Institutional Equity, the Office for Diversity and Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs for Students. Many international students are the first in their family to attend university. Join WMU at this event to spotlight the first-generation college student population and the community of support that exists for them. There will be food, prizes and activities, including representatives from WMU Study Abroad! All current Broncos are invited.
- International Night, WMU Men's Basketball vs. Northwood University, 7 p.m., University Arena, Read Fieldhouse, hosted by University Athletics. The Broncos take on Northwood University for the second game of the 2025-2026 season. It's International Night at the arena. Come out and support the four international athletes on the Bronco Basketball team.
Friday, Nov. 7
- Fulbright U.S. Scholar Information Session, 9 to 10 a.m., Student Center, Room 2122, hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Fulbright offers faculty and other professionals unparalleled opportunity to research, teach, or consult in 130+ countries worldwide.
- Ride the Bus with Us, 10:35 a.m., Office for Sustainability, 2529 W. Michigan Ave. Mass transit is significantly popular around the world and growing in the United States. Join the Office for Sustainability, along with experts from K-Metro, to explore Kalamazoo and learn about the local bus system. The team will show you the ropes, answer your questions and help you feel confident navigating the city's mass transit system. Riders will stop at a local coffee shop for some fellowship. Every student who attends will be automatically entered into our free refurbished bike giveaway. Don't forget to bring your Bronco I.D.
- GSA Mixer: Hockey Pre-Game Global Tailgate, 4 to 5 p.m., Student Center, Room 3295, hosted by the Graduate Student Association(GSA). With players from Canada, Finland, Sweden and the United States, WMU hockey is a global team. Join GSA to celebrate. The student organization will provide food and everyone will travel to the game together.
- Global Game Night, 5 to 8 p.m., Student Recreation Center, hosted by Student Engagement and Graduated Student Association. Join us for Global Games Night. Enjoy a fun-filled evening of indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball, ping pong and more! Show off your moves or learn something new in the dance space located in the Aerobics Room, or unwind with friends in the board game area. Come play, connect and celebrate our Bronco community!
Spread the Word
Display this flier on campus or in the community. Use it for newsletters or other promotions. Click on the image below to download.
Horizontal and digital screen displays are available for download. Click the images below.
See our sample photos and frame below. A thumbnail image is also provided. Download the images by clicking on the picture. A blank frame is here.
Contact Recruitment & Outreach Specialist Maddie Christians for files or more information. She's best reached at madeline.k.christians@wmich.edu.
Explore
Share your global research and view the research being done by WMU's international population.
Collaborate
Just like the iconic “You Are Welcome Here” campaign, your artwork could be the next design featured across campus.
International Education Week Art Contest 2025
Design the Next Chapter of WMU’s Global Story!
Call for Poster Design Submissions
Are you a creative Bronco with an eye for design and a passion for global connection? This is your chance to make your mark at Western Michigan University! The Haenicke Institute for Global Education (HIGE) invites all current WMU undergraduate and graduate students to design the official poster for International Education Week (IEW) 2026.
Just like the iconic “You Are Welcome Here” campaign — which began as a student-designed project — we’re continuing the tradition of showcasing student creativity that celebrates WMU’s international spirit. Your artwork could be the next design featured across campus, representing our community’s diversity, inclusivity and global engagement!
Details & Deadlines:
• International Education Week 2025: November 3–7
• Submission Deadline: Monday, November 10, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.
• Poster Size: 11 x 17 inches
• Theme: Celebrating global learning, cultural exchange and connection
• File Format: High-resolution PDF or JPEG
• File Name: IEW- [your name]
How to Submit:
• Email your design to Maddie at madeline.k.christians@wmich.edu
• Subject line: IEW 2026 Poster Design – [Your Name]
Please include:
• Your name and major
• A brief (2–3 sentence) description of your design inspiration
What You’ll Win:
The winning design will become part of the official IEW 2026 poster, featured across campus and online next fall. You’ll also be recognized by HIGE and featured on our social media and website — joining the creative legacy of student designers who help tell WMU’s global story.
For any questions, please contact Maddie Christians, marketing outreach and recruitment specialist, at the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, at madeline.k.christians@wmich.edu.
International Research Exhibition: Call for Submissions
Do you support graduate or undergraduate students engaged in international research—or do you know an international student with a compelling project? Encourage them to submit a proposal for consideration to be featured in our International Education Week Research Exhibition.
- How to Apply:
Students may apply using this form by Oct. 17. Selected students will be contacted by Oct. 22. Participation in the International Research Exhibition also counts toward the Global Citizen status in the Global Engagement Program (GEP). Learn more about the GEP here.
- Event Format:
Posters (or printable presentations) will be displayed in the WMU Student Center throughout the week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. A Reception and Presentation of Posters will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Eligibility:
The International Research Exhibition is open to undergraduate and graduate students. Projects must focus on international research or be conducted by international students. For additional questions reach out to @email.