ECC Celebrates International Week this November

Each November, Elgin Community College (ECC) celebrates the diverse cultures and heritages our international students bring to the campus. During International Week, taking place  November 17 to 20, ECC will showcase global traditions, histories, and perspectives through a variety of events and activities. 

International Week promotes global education and recognizes the contributions and achievements of more than 80 international students representing 37 countries. The Global/International Studies Taskforce, Center for Student Experience and Engagement, and Center for Global Engagement sponsor these events, with support from United Students of All Cultures. 

All events will take place at ECC’s Spartan Drive campus at 1700 Spartan Drive in Elgin. 

Events:

Opening Ceremony - Monday, November 17

The opening ceremony will kick off International Week with a celebration, which includes a welcome address from President Peggy Heinrich, EdD, and a Bollywood dance performance at 12:35 pm. Light refreshments will be served.

• Time: 12:30 to 2 pm
• Location: Building B, Jobe Lounge

Trivia Night - Tuesday, November 18

Students can put their global knowledge to the test in a trivia competition. Teams of four can compete for prizes.

• Time: 3 to 5 pm
• Location: Building B, Jobe Lounge

Bill Pelz Global Speaker Series - Thursday, November 20

This panel will include personal stories and a discussion exploring what it means to live, learn, and grow between cultures. ECC international and study abroad students will share their experiences navigating identity, culture shock, and transformation while living abroad, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of crossing borders. This event is hybrid. The Zoom link can be found here. 

• Time: 1 to 2 pm
• Location: Building. B, Room 181, Community Room

Movie Night - Thursday, November 20

Local filmmaker Griffin Hammond will present his documentary uncovering the true story of Sriracha. The film follows David Tran, a Vietnamese refugee, who brought the iconic hot sauce to the U.S. and turned it into a household name. Snacks and light refreshments will be served.

• Time: 4 to 5:30 pm
• Location: Building B, Room 181, Community Room

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