Beyond Borders: Celebrating Global Learning and Connection
Join us in celebrating International Education Week at Maricopa Community Colleges, an opportunity to honor the ways international education broadens minds, fosters intercultural understanding, and prepares students to thrive in an interconnected world.
The weeklong series of events will highlight the stories, partnerships, and experiences that connect us—across borders and beyond boundaries—expanding perspectives, embracing cultures, and empowering global citizens.
All events are free and open to all students, faculty, and staff.
International Education Week Event Listings
Explore a variety of events happening throughout the week, with in-person, virtual, and hybrid options available at different dates, times, and locations.
International Education Week Opening Ceremony
10—11 a.m., hybrid
Rio Salado College Northern
Keynote Speaker: Eva Masadiego, Executive Director, Arizona-Mexico Commission
Meeting ID: 853 3867 6718
Passcode: 69Hwxc
International Expo
11 a.m.—3 p.m., in-person
Estrella Conference Center, Estrella Mountain Community College
Kick off the week with an International Expo featuring activities, snacks from around the world, and more!
Info Session: Study Abroad in Perugia, Italy
11 a.m.—12 p.m., virtual
Are you ready to imagine yourself studying in one of Italy’s most beautiful hilltop cities? Join us to learn how you can make Perugia your classroom and turn this adventure into reality!
Taste from Around the World and Games
11 a.m.—12:30 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Description: Come and taste snacks from different countries and cultures, while exploring table games played around the world.
International Fashion Show
11 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students take center stage in a dazzling Fashion & Talent Show, showcasing their style, skills, and creativity. From the runway to live performances, this inspiring event celebrates confidence, culture, and community spirit. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
Together We Rise: Collaborating With Students To Achieve Their Academic and Career Goals Across All Borders and Beyond All Boundaries
12:30—2 p.m., Virtual
Webex Link
Join us for a dynamic panel discussion as distinguished Faculty Chairs share insights from their academic fields and explore the vital role of international education in empowering students to achieve their academic and career goals across borders and beyond boundaries. Presented by Sherri Moore-Williams, Student Affairs & International Education.
Karaoke (International Version)
12:30—1:30 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Join the fun of karaoke music available in multiple languages, and learn about a popular form of entertainment, particularly in countries like Japan and Philippines.
International Movie Screening: Nakom
2:30—4:30 p.m., in-person
Hacienda Room (F-121), Phoenix College
Iddrisu (Jacob Ayanaba), a talented medical student reluctantly returns home to the village of Nakom after his father's death. Iddrisu temporarily assumes responsibility for the impoverished household and farm, inheriting a debt that could destroy the family. Attempting to maintain part of his studies from the confines of a small hut, Iddrisu struggles to balance tradition and familial duty with the call to follow his own dreams.
Internationalizing Your Curriculum Workshop
3—4 p.m., hybrid
The Center for Teaching and Learning (MON 112), Estrella Mountain Community College
In this workshop, Dr. Erica Wager will highlight what she learned from the Mexico Faculty Development Program she participated in and different ways for faculty and staff to internationalize their curriculum/programs.
Meeting ID: 974 2349 7114
Passcode: 379227
Multilingual Open Mic
4—5:30 p.m., in-person
Black Box Theatre PAC-725, South Mountain Community College
A multilingual open mic for students and staff. All genres of writing and performance are encouraged to share their work.
International Fashion and Talent Show
6—8:30 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students take center stage in a dazzling Fashion & Talent Show, showcasing their style, skills, and creativity. From the runway to live performances, this inspiring event celebrates confidence, culture, and community spirit. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
International Education Week Opening Ceremony
Time: 10–11 a.m.
Format: Hybrid — attend in person or online
Where: Mesa Community College LB-300, or join via Zoom.
Kick off International Education Week with a keynote presentation from Kristin Allen, President and CEO of Global Ties Arizona.
Moving Abroad in Challenging Times
Time: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Format: Virtual
Where: Join via Google Meet
Join us for an exciting conversation about the realities of living abroad! Hear firsthand experiences, explore the challenges of moving overseas, and learn from two panelists about their journeys and transitions abroad. Presented by Dr. Lamont Slater, Faculty Chair at Rio Salado College.
International Education Week Opening Ceremony
Time: 10–11 a.m.
Format: Hybrid — attend in person or online
Where: Mesa Community College LB-300, or join via Zoom.
Kick off International Education Week with a keynote presentation from Kristin Allen, President and CEO of Global Ties Arizona.
Moving Abroad in Challenging Times
Time: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Format: Virtual
Where: Join via Google Meet
Join us for an exciting conversation about the realities of living abroad! Hear firsthand experiences, explore the challenges of moving overseas, and learn from two panelists about their journeys and transitions abroad. Presented by Dr. Lamont Slater, Faculty Chair at Rio Salado College.
Cafe Around the World
8:30—10 a.m., in-person
Rio Splash Pad (first floor), Rio Salado College
Enjoy a taste of treats from around the world and learn more about our Ghana Study Abroad program. Hosted by Rio International Education.
Attributions Not Appropriations: Written, Visual, Oral
9—10:15 a.m., in-person
The Knowledge and Science Center (KSC1000A), Paradise Valley Community College
Learn why and how to respectfully make attributions for your and other’s work, with Paula Crossman, Michael Noschka, and Ana Cuddington.
International Fashion and Talent Show
9:30 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students take center stage in a dazzling Fashion & Talent Show, showcasing their style, skills, and creativity. From the runway to live performances, this inspiring event celebrates confidence, culture, and community spirit. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
Former ESL Students: Where Are They Now?
10—11:15 a.m., in-person
Student Union Den, Phoenix College
Panel of former ESL students who have completed the program and have achieved a wide range of personal, academic, and professional success.
The Impact of Study Abroad
10—11 a.m., virtual
The impact of study abroad can affect how a person sees and treats others who are different. It impacts students by enhancing personal development through increased independence and self-confidence. Additionally, studying abroad promotes a deeper understanding and tolerance towards different ways of life. In the current world that we live in, it seems as though intolerance is heralded through erasing history, mass deportations and shunning diversity initiatives. This panel discussion will feature former students who have studied abroad, the impact that it had on their personal lives, and what their experience means for the broader society. Presented by Dr. Lamont Slater, Faculty Chair, RSC.
Join by phone: +1 (315) 754-3428
PIN: 475 160 715#
Balance & Breath: An Introduction to Tai Chi
10—10:30 a.m., in-person
North Lawn, Estrella Mountain Community College
Join us for a calming session of Tai Chi facilitated by Nikol Price, where you’ll learn and practice simple movements that promote balance, breath, and mindfulness. Enjoy light snacks while Nikol shares the cultural and historical background of Tai Chi.
University of Guanajuato Faculty Research Opportunities and Outcomes
10:30—11:45 a.m., in-person
The Knowledge and Science Center (KSC1000A), Paradise Valley Community College
History and psychology faculty share the meaningful experiences from the MCCCD Mexico Faculty Fellowship. Presented by Dr. Vaswati Ghosh and Dr. Caron Sada.
VR Your Ecotourism
11 a.m.—4 p.m., in-person
The Center for Teaching and Learning (MON 112), Estrella Mountain Community College
Explore some ecotourism sites with VR. There will be an open lab time for you to explore various sites around the world. Presented by Dr. Liz Cantú and Scott Milne.
International Talent Show
11 a.m.—1 p.m., in-person
Student Pavilion, Chandler Gilbert Community College - Pecos Campus
This is an exciting opportunity for students to showcase their talents on stage, either individually or as part of a group.
Rio Study Abroad Info Session
11 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Rio Tower Lobby, Rio Salado College
Dr. Lamont Slater (Faculty Chair, RSC) will explain different aspects of the study abroad trip, including course information, historical excursions, local history, and other elements that would create a better understanding of the experiential learning opportunity. He will also talk about the Gilman scholarship and Honors Award opportunity.
Flags for Peace
11 a.m.—1 p.m., in-person
Center Mall, Glendale Community College
Activity to promote international awareness and international week on campus. Students will draw flags that will either represent their country of origin, or one they would like to go to or have been to. The flags will be displayed in the center mall.
Native American Heritage Month Guest Speaker: Mr. Kris Dosela
11:30 a.m.—1:30 p.m., in-person
Estrella Conference Center, Estrella Mountain Community College
Mr. Kris Dosela will share his experience as an EMCC alumnus and his journey of reconnecting with his culture through indigenous stories and songs.
Study Abroad Information Session: England
11:45 a.m.—12:30 p.m., hybrid
Virtual LInk: Google Meet
The Language and Communications Building (LC 361), Scottsdale Community College
Informational meeting about MCCCD’s Study Abroad programs, emphasizing SCC’s England: Canterbury and London program. Led by program director Jeff Butcher.
Chat and Chew: Around the World
11 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Student Union (SU100), South Mountain Community College
Ready to go global? Discover study abroad programs, scholarships, and cultural adventures. Hear inspiring student stories, connect with your international peers, and learn from faculty who can help you take your journey worldwide.
Study Abroad Information Session: Guanajuato
12—1 p.m., in-person
Student Union Den, Phoenix College
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Mexico with our exciting summer study abroad program in Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its colonial architecture, colorful atmosphere, and artistic energy.
Attributions Not Appropriations: Written, Visual, Oral
12:30—1:45 p.m., in-person
The Knowledge and Science Center (KSC1000A), Paradise Valley Community College
Learn why and how to respectfully make attributions for your and other’s work, with Paula Crossman, Michael Noschka, and Ana Cuddington.
Popular Music Ensemble
1—3 p.m., in-person
The Learning Resource Center Patio, South Mountain Community College
A student performance of popular songs that have united global cultures.
Refugee 101 Workshop
1—2:30 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado Conference Center, Rio Salado College
Join the Community Engagement Council and Welcome to America Project for an interactive workshop exploring the refugee experience.
- Understand the differences between refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants
- Explore root causes of displacement and resettlement challenges
- Break down myths and highlight refugee contributions
- Engage in real-world scenarios to build empathy and action
This is an opportunity to deepen understanding and learn ways to support refugee communities.
International Fashion and Talent Show
6—8:30 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students take center stage in a dazzling Fashion & Talent Show, showcasing their style, skills, and creativity. From the runway to live performances, this inspiring event celebrates confidence, culture, and community spirit. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
The Amazon
9—10:15 a.m., in-person
The Knowledge and Science Center (KSC1000A), Paradise Valley Community College
Use virtual reality headsets and 360 film to “travel” the world’s largest river. Presented by Dr. Eddie Lamperez.
International Games and Global Bites
9:30 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students invite you to a day of food and fun! Bring a favorite dish to share and enjoy laughter, friendly competition, and community connection through games from around the world. Hosted by RSC Northern Adult Education.
The Power of Language Learning for Personal and Professional Enrichment
10 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
The Learning Resource Center Patio, South Mountain Community College
Promoting language acquisition, this event is organized by Professor Loida Gutierrez and her students.
International Festival
10 a.m.—1 p.m., in-person
Clocktower Lawn, Mesa Community College
Join us for a multicultural fashion show, salsa lessons, information tables, and more!
Roots of Exercise: Exploring the World’s Heritage of Movement Through Practice and Play
10—10:30 a.m., in-person
North Lawn, Estrella Mountain Community College
Explore the origins of exercise and experience the movement traditions of the past. This interactive session blends history with practice—come ready to learn, move, and enjoy light snacks as facilitator Lyle Bartelt shares the origin of exercise.
“Monuments of the World” Loteria
11 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Discover and play Loteria—a game that has been played across Latin America for centuries—with a twist that features landmarks in the world.
Global Celebration
11 a.m.—2 p.m., in-person
Center Mall, Glendale Community College
Cultural games, cultural artifacts, presentations, cultural performances, world languages demo, international music, fashion show, international teas and snacks, and much more!
Game on for Wellness: International Mental Health Experience
11 a.m.—12:15 p.m., in-person
Higley Room, Chandler Gilbert Community College - Williams Campus
Join us to learn more about global mental health and wellness and campus resources for students and staff.
Intercultural Communication Projects with Q&A
11:30 a.m.—1 p.m., in-person
Black Box Theatre (PAC-725), South Mountain Community College
Students will showcase their research about their assigned countries from around the world in Professor Azra Mahmood’s COM 263 - Intercultural Communication Projects “Deep Dive into Global Culture.”
Tastes from Around the World and Games
12—1 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Come and taste snacks from different countries and cultures, while exploring table games played around the world.
Global Connections Mixer
1—2:30 p.m. in-person
The Center for Teaching and Learning, Estrella Mountain Community College
Join us for a fun and welcoming mixer where students from all backgrounds can connect over shared interests in travel, languages, culture, and global education. Whether you are an international student, multilingual learner, future traveler, or simply curious about the world, this event is for you!
- Meet new friends
- Share your global experiences (big or small!)
- Learn about opportunities in international education
Unboxing My Cultures
2—3 p.m., in-person
K Building (K116), Paradise Valley Community College
A creative arts experience giving you the opportunity to reflect on the meaning of your own cultures. Presented by Dr. Caron Sada.
Eastern Wellness Sampler
2—3 p.m., in-person
The Knowledge and Science Center (KSC1000A), Paradise Valley Community College
An opportunity to try Tai Chi, Yoga, and Meditation for your wellness needs. Presented by Professor Angela Ambrose.
Food Demo with the Rio Cafe
3—4 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado Cafe, Rio Salado College
Join the Rio Cafe for a traditional rustic carbonara cooking demo! Enjoy a step-by-step recipe walkthrough followed by a tasting as we showcase the art of making this classic Italian dish. Presented by Dominic Romero.
Study Abroad Information Session: Guanajuato
5:30—6:30 p.m., virtual
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Mexico with our exciting summer study abroad program in Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its colonial architecture, colorful atmosphere, and artistic energy.
International Games and Global Bites
6—8:30 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students invite you to a day of fun and food at our Games & Potluck Night! Bring a favorite dish to share and enjoy laughter, friendly competition, and community connection through games from around the world. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
International Games and Global Bites
9:30 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students invite you to a day of fun and food! Bring a favorite dish to share and enjoy laughter, friendly competition, and community connection through games from around the world. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
Authoritarianism--Where the Future Takes Us: A Case Study of International Drama and Dramatists CANCELLED (due to illness)
10—11:30 a.m., in-person
Black Box Theatre (PAC-725), South Mountain Community College
Enjoy readings from student actors from various scenes of plays that have impacted the global stage.
International Fun Fest
11 a.m.—1 p.m., in-person
Student Pavilion, Chandler Gilbert Community College - Pecos Campus
Step into a world of fun at the International Fun Fest! This exciting event brings together games and activities from across the globe, giving you the chance to experience international traditions playfully and engagingly.
Tea and Cookies from Around the World
11 a.m.—12 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Come and taste tea and cookies from around the world, and learn about diverse cultural traditions such as formal ceremonies to casual daily rituals.
Around the World in 90 Minutes
11 a.m.—12:30 p.m., in-person
Center of CampusCopper Room (IE-1302), GateWay Community College
This cultural event features food and cultural artifacts from around the world, including cultural performances.
Global IQ Trivia Lunch
11:45 a.m.—12:30 p.m., in-person
Cafeteria, Scottsdale Community College
Bring your lunch and join up with fellow students during Artie Hour for a fun trivia session to test your Global IQ! Hosted by PTK Club.
International Fashion Show
12—1 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Students and community come together to celebrate the rich cultural diversity at Phoenix College.
Many Voices, Many Faces, Many Languages — One Story
1—2:15 p.m., in-person
New Student Orientation Room (SES 127), South Mountain Community College
Join us for a panel of multilingual college peers to share stories about language and identity and the gift of multilingualism. Hosted by SMCC Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and moderated by Vice President of Fellowship Perla Rodriguez.
Poetry Slam
3—4 p.m., virtual
In honor of Aziz Alhadi, former Director of International Education at Mesa Community College and a passionate poet—who passed away in 2024—MCCCD’s international education community is hosting a poetry contest open to all enrolled MCCCD students. Contest winners will have the opportunity to showcase their work at the poetry slam event. For more information on the poetry contest, visit: maricopa.edu/poetry-contest
Meeting ID: 829 4077 0993
Passcode: q1et9T
Study Abroad Information Session: Oman
3—4 p.m., hybrid
Arroyo Hall (ARO 269), Estrella Mountain Community College
Join Dr. Miller & Professor Milne to learn about Oman and the Study Abroad program being offered in May 2026!
Join by phone: +1 (251) 262-9492
PIN: 980 301 896#
International Games and Global Bites
6—8:30 p.m., in-person
Rio Salado College Northern (Lobby)
Adult education students invite you to a day of fun and food at our Games & Potluck Night! Bring a favorite dish to share and enjoy laughter, friendly competition, and community connection through games from around the world. Presented by RSC Northern Adult Education.
Maricopa Colleges Global Leadership Experience — Beyond Boundaries: Empowering Global Citizens for a Changing World
9 a.m.—4 p.m., in-person
Conference Center at Rio, Rio Salado College
Step beyond your community and explore your role as a global citizen. Through dynamic sessions, students will learn about resilience, storytelling, and cross-cultural experiences to support their professional development as empathetic leaders in today's interconnected world.
NOTE: Deadline to register is November 7. Please contact your college representative with any questions.
Visit Maricopa College Global Leadership Experience for more details and to register.
Happening All Week
Lunch at Rio
11 a.m.—2 p.m. (Monday through Thursday), in-person
Rio Salado Cafe, Rio Salado College
Enjoy international lunch specials all week at the Rio Café.
Study Abroad Booth, with Games and Candy from Around the World
11 a.m.—1 p.m., in-person
Sophomore Square, Phoenix College
Library Display: Countries and Cultures
Daily during library operating hours, in-person
South Mountain Community Library (1st floor lobby), South Mountain Community College
A display of books and other materials highlighting international authors / performers, education topics, and countries and cultures.
Global Library
Daily during library operating hours, in-person
Main Library, Glendale Community College
A book display highlighting international authors or education topics.
International Book Display
Daily during library operating hours, in-person
Phoenix College Library, Phoenix College
