Global Perspectives in Higher Education: Highlights from ICCI 2023

By Isaiah Green and Eli Konwest

We are thrilled to share the highlights from the eleventh annual Institute for Curriculum and Campus Internationalization (ICCI), hosted by the Global Center, being our twenty-sixth year of Global Center institutes. This year we welcomed participants from over 20 institutions spanning the educational spectrum, from Historically Black Colleges and Universities to community colleges, research universities, and private institutions. Participants hailed from diverse corners of the globe, including Australia, Poland, Kyrgyzstan, China, and Germany, enriching the discourse with a myriad of perspectives and experiences.This year’s ICCI was a testament to the enduring commitment of educators and administrators to fostering global perspectives within higher education.

Dr. Keshia Abraham graced us with her insightful keynote address, “When Where I Already Am Is the Mainstream: JEDI Internationalization,” which encouraged us all to center the experiences of marginalized students in our internationalization efforts, setting the tone for a collaborative and enriching experience. We extend our appreciation to our esteemed leaders, Penelope Pynes and Paaige Turner for the Campus Track, and Emily Watson and Dawn Whitehead for the Course Track. Their dedication and expertise guided participants through dynamic workshops, ensuring meaningful engagement and learning on bringing global discourse into the classroom and campus life.

A highlight of this year’s ICCI was the inaugural Post-Institute Workshop, featuring a presentation on "Windows to the World: Digital Artifacts for Global Educators'' by Colton Ames. This innovative project provides K-16 educators with digital access to collections housed at Indiana University’s museums and archives, offering a wealth of resources to enhance global education initiatives.

As we reflect on the successes of this year’s ICCI, we eagerly anticipate the opportunities for growth and collaboration that lie ahead. One attendee from a community college reflected, “[This institute has] enabled us to put a more intentional lens on international education. I learned so much at the conference and met some incredible people.”  The Global Center remains committed to advancing the mission of ICCI and fostering a global mindset within higher education. Thank you to all who contributed to making this year’s ICCI a resounding success. Here’s to continued partnership and progress in the years to come!