By: Gina Carfagno

The Center for International Education (CIE) is hosting International Education Week to celebrate study abroad programs.

It is a joint initiative of the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Department of Education that helps promote exchange and prepares students for global environments.

This week, the CIE hopes to create awareness and showcase opportunities Xavier offers.

“We believe that it’s important to facilitate cultural dialogue and exchange on Xavier’s campus and in the surrounding communities,” Executive Director Lea Minniti said.

Two of the week’s events will focus on international careers. One is a presentation called “From Xavier to Haiti: The Paths of Two Alumni,” which will discuss the collaboration between humanitarian and private sectors and a non-profit career path.

“We are excited about the collaborative events offered by departments across campus to help us spread the word about the importance of international education,” Minniti said.

The week will close with the annual International Dinner and Fashion Show, which is typically the most popular event of the week.

Both domestic and international Xavier students are producing the show, which will take place at 7 p.m. on Nov. 15 in Smith Hall’s Conaton Board Room.

Faculty will host information sessions for summer programs throughout the week and program alumni will be present to answer questions.

If students are interested in a summer program but cannot attend its meeting, they can review discussed information at http://www.xavier.edu/study-abroad/or visit the CIE office in Gallagher Student Center, room 230.

The CIE aims to foster respect between cultures, help Xavier expand internationally and help international students adjust to Xavier and the United States.

For more information about International Education Week and how to get involved with the CIE and study abroad programs, visit the CIE, email international@xavier.edu or visit http://www.xavier.edu/international.