International Cultural Center wins first place at NAFSA 2024 Annual Conference & Expo

The International Cultural Center, part of the Office of International Programs, was awarded the "Fan Favorite" poster for one of its signature programs, Global Culture and Cuisine, at the NAFSA 2024 Annual Conference and Expo.

The NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo is the world's largest international education event. It brings together thousands of professionals from more than 100 countries and highlights diverse and innovative programs, products and services that are shaping the future of international education and exchange.

One poster for each poster fair theme is awarded the "Best Poster" award. The winners are chosen by the poster selection committee and rated on criteria including audio presentation, poster visuals and creativity. ICC's poster, "Gastronomy and Global Learning: Global Cuisine Boosts Intercultural Learning," emphasized the hands-on nature of the Global Culture and Cuisine program. This program, which integrates internationalization into significant learning outcomes, involves hands-on demonstration, teamwork and intercultural dialogue in a classroom environment with practical kitchen food preparation and demonstration. Classes are led by individuals native to the featured country, offering an authentic experience. Program participants engage in food sampling and structured interactions aimed at fostering friendships, campus community building and global awareness. The program is based on Kolb's Experiential Learning theoretical (ELT) framework, ensuring that participants are actively engaged in their learning.

The next Global Culture and Cuisine class will be held at the Tony and Libba Rane's Culinary Science Center on Oct. 22, 2024, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Please note that space is limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. For further information about the International Cultural Center's programs, please visit ICC's website.