The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2015 annual report for this blog, ihberkeley.wordpress.com.
Here’s an excerpt:
The concert hall at the Sydney Opera House holds 2,700 people. This blog was viewed about 19,000 times in 2015. If it were a concert at Sydney Opera House, it would take about 7 sold-out performances for that many people to see it.
December 2015
Dear I-House Friends,
During this time of year, International House takes on a different life. Hallways usually filled with footsteps and laughter are quieted by the long winter break. As residents depart, the House adopts more of a quiet calm; much the opposite of typical daily life under the dome during the semester.
In celebration of 85 years of changing lives and breaking barriers, we kicked off the 85 Stories for 85 Years campaign, an effort to collect at least 85 stories throughout the year from our alumni about their I-House experience. We have collected many stories to date, and I encourage you to add yours. You can do so here.
I-House also opened its doors to the newly-renovated Dining Commons in August. This transformative $8.75 million project has received rave reviews from residents, alumni, and community members alike. Designed to provide a higher level of interaction between residents and kitchen staff, the reimagined space allows greater customization for cultural and dietary restrictions. I invite you to experience our new Dining Commons first-hand. We would very much enjoy giving you a tour and a taste of the food prepared in this facility. Contact my colleague, Izzy Goodwin, in Donor and Alumni Relations for more information.
In October, I-House celebrated its first annual Global Homecoming, a day of activities for alumni, residents, and families. The House was filled with old friends and new enjoying the Alumni Panel during brunch, a face painter and caricature artist during the Open House, and adventurous culinary treats during Around the World Under the Dome.
Below you will find the latest edition of the I-House Times which also highlights the launch of the Activism Era Scholarship and the advances and re-naming of our Center for Intercultural Leadership to the Robertson Center for Intercultural Leadership through a transformative gift by longtime friends and supporters Peter and Candy Robertson. I hope you will find a moment during this busy season to catch up with all things I-House. While you may no longer reside within these walls, it is evident for many of our alumni that I-House never truly stops being your home.
As another semester draws to a close here at I-House, I want to thank you for your continued support and commitment to I-House. Before we know it, our halls will be filled by residents once again, and a new semester will be underway. It is thanks to friends and alumni like you that we are able to continue our mission of fostering a world of greater peace and understanding.
On behalf of all of us here at I-House, I wish you and your family all the best during this holiday season.
Sincerely yours,
Hans C. Giesecke, Ph.D.
Executive Director, International House
I-House Times Fall 2015 – Winter 2016
International House Development & Alumni Relations
(510) 642-4128 | ihalumni@berkeley.edu
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Dear I-House Friends,
During this time of gratitude, we want to send our thanks to you for being a part of I-House by sharing your inspiring stories, participating in our events, or making a gift to support our mission.
This has been an incredible year for I-House as we celebrate our 85th birthday — we completed the transformation of our Dining Commons; launched our 85 Stories for 85 Years initiative; and we’re on track to give a record number of financial aid awards, so more deserving scholars can experience life under the dome. It’s all thanks to you, our community.
We are so grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support from our alumni and friends. Most recently, donors came out in droves for the 24 hours of Big Give at Berkeley. Our donors contributed $27,162 to International House — the largest number of online gifts we have ever received in a single day! We also won a $1,000 bonus in a social media contest for the thought bubble selfie pictured below.
By coming together on this season of giving, we are able to achieve far more than we ever could alone. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful community of residents, alumni, parents, and friends. Thank you for helping us to build a strong foundation for our future.
We’d also like to thank everyone who “shared the love” on social media with Big Give photos. Check out our Big Give photos on Facebook.
We wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!
With gratitude,
The I-House Development, Alumni Relations & Communications Team
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| Joy Iwasa Director of Development & Communications |
Johnny Avots-Smith Associate Director of Development |
Izzy Goodwin Fundraising and Events Coordinator |
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| Laurie Ferris Webmaster / Communications Strategist |
Laurel Anderson Communications Coordinator |
Teresa Magallón Development Associate |
International House Development & Alumni Relations
(510) 642-4128 | ihalumni@berkeley.edu
PS: Did you know that all of your purchases on Amazon.com can go towards supporting I-House? Visit smile.amazon.com and select International House, Berkeley. AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service.
November 2015
Give big during Big Give this Thursday and DOUBLE your impact!
Support International House this Thursday, November 19, during UC Berkeley’s Big Give, a 24-hour online fundraising blitz, and have your impact doubled with a dollar for dollar matching challenge from Eric and Wendy Schmidt!
Show your passion for I-House and make your Big Give donation online! Visit biggive.berkeley.edu/ihouse to make a gift.
Spread the word about Big Give! Tell us how International House has helped you think bigger, shine brighter, or expand your circle of friends. Download a thought bubble, take a photo, and share it on social media, or email your caption and photo to lferris@berkeley.edu.
Please use both the #CalBigGive and #InternationalHouse hashtags to show your I-House spirit and help us win prizes in Social Media contests!
See our Big Give 2015 Facebook album for more fun photos!
Residents hold candlelight vigil for victims of terrorist attacks
Residents gathered on the front steps of I-House between the Peace Poles on Tuesday to hold a vigil of solidarity for those affected by the recent attacks in Beirut and Paris. The I-House Resident Council helped organize the event to lift up the victims and their families in thought and prayer and to proclaim the need for reconciliation among those who have sought to cause harm to other human beings.
I-House in the news
International House was recently featured in a Chronicle of Higher Education article about international students studying in the US.
I-House is home to a diverse group of residents from over 85 countries around the world through the course of a year. Beyond just room and board, International House also provides a wide range of programs, workshops, and trainings for international students and the entire UC Berkeley community to help foster intercultural respect, understanding, and leadership skills.
Robert Reich to speak at I-House on “Saving Capitalism”
Tuesday, December 1st, 5:15 pm Reception & Book Signing
6:00 pm Lecture and Q&AJoin Chancellor’s Professor Robert Reich for a discussion on what we must do to rebuild our economic system and restore our democracy. Professor Reich will be signing copies of his latest book, “Saving Capitalism: For the Many, Not the Few,” before a lecture and Q&A.
Learn more about the event here.
Joe Lurie to speak at Commonwealth Club: Perception and Deception: Understanding Misunderstandings Across Cultures
Tuesday, December 8th, 6 pm
I-House is pleased to co-sponsor an event at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco featuring Joe Lurie, I-House Executive Director Emeritus (1988 – 2007) on December 8th at 6 pm. Lurie will share a feast of cross-cultural experiences and misadventures gleaned from his years of research, travel and managing International House that are featured in his book.
I-House residents, alumni, staff, and board members are eligible for discounted tickets ($8 instead of $20). When registering online, enter the promotional code “SpecialForLurie” or call the Commonwealth Club at 415-597-6700. Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Commonwealth Club of California
555 Post Street, San Francisco
Tuesday, December 8, 5:30 pm reception, 6 pm program
7 pm Perception and Deception book signing
Sincerely,
The I-House Development, Alumni Relations & Communications Team
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| Joy Iwasa Director of Development & Communications |
Johnny Avots-Smith Associate Director of Development |
Izzy Goodwin Fundraising and Events Coordinator |
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| Laurie Ferris Webmaster / Communications Strategist |
Laurel Anderson Communications Coordinator |
Teresa Magallón Development Associate |
International House Development & Alumni Relations
(510) 642-4128 | ihalumni@berkeley.edu
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October 2015
Join us for UN Dinner, Mozart Concert, Diwali, Discover Cal and the Big Give!
United Nations Celebration and Awards Dinner
Transforming Our World: Superior Corporate Achievements
Sunday, October 25, 5 pm – 8:30 pm
Join us as we celebrate the 70th Birthday of the United Nations and present the 10th annual Global Citizen Awards, honoring East Bay companies and their impact on the priority development goals established by the United Nations.
Keynote topic: What’s so important about the UN’s new Global Goals?
Speaker: Micah Spangler, Better World Campaign of the UN Foundation, Washington, D.C.
Honorees include:
Amyris: bioscience maker of anti-malaria and leading edge, healthy, ‘green’ products
Clorox: global manufacturer with environmentally-sound, responsible policies and practices
Nutiva: producer of sustainable natural foods with exemplary international operations
Advance registration required. Seating is limited, so don’t delay!
General Public – $45, UNA members – $40, Students – $20, FREE for I-House Residents.
Register at: www.undayevent2015.eventbrite.com
Spots are still available for those looking to get involved in a big way and become a Global Homecoming Ambassador! These coveted spaces are reserved for I-House alumni and friends who want to get behind the scenes at Global Homecoming. Available shifts include registration, open house, event assistant, and more.
Preserving the Legacy of the Edith Coliver Festival of Cultures
Want to be a Global Homecoming Ambassador but can’t commit to a shift? No problem! Bringing four or more friends with you to Global Homecoming also qualifies you as an Ambassador.
Global Homecoming Ambassadors are not only critical team members, but they will also receive exclusive Global Homecoming gear! For more information or to register, contact Izzy Goodwin in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at izzy@berkeley.edu or (510) 643-6917.
One of the tastiest parts of Global Homecoming on October 4th will certainly be Around the World Under the Dome; a culinary adventure like no other from 2:30 – 4:30 pm! I-House Executive Chef Jordan Lichman has a delectable menu in store- complete with wine and beer pairings for those 21 years or older.
Shrimp Pacora
A popular Indian appetizer of shrimp battered in a spicy mix and deep-fried.
Beef Satay
An Indonesian favorite originating in Java. This version features Tamarind and Kecap Manis a sweet soy sauce.
Weisswurst
This elegant sausage, made from veal and pork, and has a delicate yet rich flavor enhanced by coriander seed.
Mini Tostada
This staple of Mexican cuisine has been shrunk to a perfectly bite-sized deep-fried tortilla featuring beans, salsa, shredded chicken and cool sour cream.
This teaser is only a sample of the delights that await you at Around the World Under the Dome during Global Homecoming on October 4th. A full schedule of the day’s activities can be seen below. Walk-ins welcome but register by October 1st to receive your commemorative Global Homecoming gift. For more information or to register, please click here or contact the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at ihalumni@berkeley.edu or (510) 642-4128.
Dear Friends,
Fall is in full swing at International House. All 585 of our residents have settled in and are creating their initial I-House memories. We are excited for the coming months and have many ways for you to get involved. We hope you take advantage of the opportunities listed below.
Share the I-House experience with 85 Stories for 85 Years
In August I-House launched 85 Stories for 85 Years in celebration of its 85th birthday. This initiative seeks to collect 85 stories from alumni over the coming months, capturing the many ways I-House has touched those lucky enough to have lived under the dome.
I-House is proud to present the first video from this initiative, featuring four I-House alumni telling their remarkable stories of love, friendship, and family.
We are pleased to share these stories throughout the year in our newsletter, on our blog, on our website and in social media. If you would like to submit a story to 85 Stories for 85 Years, please visit our website, or contact the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at ihalumni@berkeley.edu or (510) 642-4128. Stories will be collected through April 30, 2016.
I-House alumni stories featured:
Jeanne Griffith (IH 1952-54)
Milos Petrovich (IH 1999-2002) Victor Pineda (IH 1999-2002)
George Chang (IH 1961-64)
Click here to watch the video.
Join Us for Global Homecoming on October 4th!
Global Homecoming is a day of activities and events guaranteed to have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to network with fellow alumni, reconnect with old friends, or enjoy a day out with the family, Global Homecoming is the perfect time to come home to I-House. All activities are free of charge, unless noted.
RSVPs appreciated by October 1, 2015 to secure your commemorative Global Homecoming gift. Register here or check out our website. Walk-ins welcome! Continue reading
International House cordially invites you to a benefit for I-House in honor of Sherry and Betsey Warrick’s 70th wedding anniversary.
Saturday, September 19th, 2015
International House, 2299 Piedmont Avenue, Berkeley, CA Continue reading
Today hundreds of UC Berkeley students from over sixty countries will settle into the iconic dome-topped International House. They arrive on the week that also marks the 85th Birthday of this unique institution dedicated to intercultural connections.
“Every day, as it has been for 85 years, the residents of I-House bear witness to events that shape our world; some are global, shifting the course of history. Others are local; shifting the course of a person. That is the beauty of the I-House experience, and one that is echoed throughout generations of I-House alumni: it is the small things that have the largest impact – Coffee Hours that break cultural barriers, debates in the Dining Commons that produce leaders capable of compromise, or a dance class in Chevron Auditorium where dance partners become life partners. While the world shifts as the years pass, these parts of the International House experience are impervious to change.”
– Hans Giesecke, Executive Director
Executive Director Hans Giesecke welcoming residents as they find their way to their rooms.
Laurie Ferris sharing the I-House Love. Alumni Relations begins at Day One!
Laurel Anderson-Malinovsky and Teresa Magallón provide goodie bags and news of upcoming resident-alumni networking opportunities.
New residents getting their room keys in the Great Hall.
Welcome Reception in the Chevron Auditorium.
Our wonderful Program Office staff welcoming new residents at the reception.
International House celebrates 85 years. Learn more about our remarkable history.
Here’s to a great new academic year at International House and UC Berkeley!
I-House Executive Director Emeritus Joe Lurie made local and national headlines this week. UC Berkeley News featured his new book Perception and Deception, and National Peace Corps Association interviewed Joe about his lifelong commitment to cross cultural engagement. We are happy to share excerpts of both articles below.
Say hello to Joe Lurie (Kenya 1967-1970) and he might greet you in Swahili, French or even Twi. Why? The Peace Corps — which sparked Lurie’s interest in languages and in other cultures. It also launched his extensive international education career.
A Love for Cultures
For 20 years, Lurie was executive director of International House at UC Berkeley, a cultural center for the campus and residence for over 1,500 U.S. and international students and scholars annually from over 80 countries. [. . . ]
UC Berkeley International House students pose in front of their building in 2009
In honor of his distinguished service, the International House Board of Directors and UC Berkeley alumni established The Joe Lurie Returned Peace Corps Gateway Fellowship, an endowed doctoral fellowship. Each year one RPCV is awarded full UC Berkeley tuition, fees and a stipend to complete the first year of doctoral studies. With full room and board at International House, awardees continue their cross-cultural experiences while sharing Peace Corps discoveries with American and international residents.
Joe as a Volunteer in Kenya.
In July 2015, Lurie’s book, Perception and Deception: A Mind-Opening Journey Across Cultures (www.PerceptionandDeception.com) was published. . . . In the book, he describes cultural misunderstanding in the Peace Corps and at International House. There are also eyebrow-raising stories from his work as an intercultural trainer and researcher; as well as a speaker and consultant for non-profits and multi-national companies. . . .
I-House: Where UC Berkeley Meets the World 