Lafayette celebrates International Education Week

By Hannah Cushman ’26

Hosted by the International Students Association (ISA) with support from the Office of Intercultural Development and the Division of Inclusion, International Education Week will be celebrated by Lafayette College Nov. 8-14 with a series of exciting events for students to explore different cultures.

“Global understanding and cross-cultural awareness are crucial skills that students will use in the workplace and throughout their lives,” says Janine Block ’94, associate director of international student advising and support. “Lafayette is a microcosm of the world, and [we hope] students take advantage of the beautiful opportunity that lies before them—to dig deep and to get to know their peers from different parts of the globe and the U.S,. so they can learn and grow from one another.”

Areeb Atheeque ’25, president of ISA, expressed his excitement for the week, noting this year’s lineup seamlessly blends fun and education. “This week means a lot to me, as it not only is a really fun series of events that students from ISA enjoy, but I also think there’s a huge interest from the general student population.”

Areeb Atheeque ’25, Naya Kurdy ’25, and Kelsey Wong ’25 | Photo by Adam Atkinson

The week will kick off with When Worlds Collide, a formal celebration themed to a night in Tokyo, Friday., Nov. 8. This event invites students to experience music, dance, and cultural unity. The celebration continues with bingo and a viewing of Disney’s Encanto on Saturday, Nov. 9; Arabian Nights, Sunday, Nov. 10, will offer traditional Arabic snacks, clothing, and cultural insights. 

Xposed, a moderated panel on the Yemen Civil War, is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 11. Other key events include the popular Sushithon on Tuesday, Nov. 12—where participants can roll their own sushi—and the Djembe Workshop, Wednesday, Nov. 13, which offers a hands-on drumming experience at Grossman House. The week wraps up with Jeopardy on Thursday, Nov. 14, a team-based competition in international trivia.

“International Education Week is a valued time for us to celebrate the diversity that enriches our Lafayette community,” says Kimberly L. Weatherly, executive director of intercultural development. “Cultural and identity awareness weeks or months foster not only a celebration of our differences but also an opportunity for meaningful learning and growth. Together, we expand our perspectives and deepen our understanding of our global society.”

Areeb Atheeque ’25, Naya Kurdy ’25, and Kelsey Wong ’25 | Photo by Adam Atkinson

For Kelsey Wong ’25, co-vice president of ISA, events like these highlight the importance of inclusivity. “International and domestic students alike contribute to this week, sharing their cultures and passions,” Wong says.

“I see this week as a time for connection,” adds Naya Kurdy ’25, co-vice president of ISA. “International Education Week creates spaces where students can share their cultures while learning about others.”