Global Perspectives: Summer 2026

Front steps and entrance of I-House viewed from Piedmont Ave

July 30, 2026

Shaun R. Carver, I-House Executive Director

Dear I-House Community,

Over the past few months, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with journalists, university leaders, and fellow nonprofit executives about a range of topics, from international student mobility to institutional trust and organizational leadership.

While the conversations have been different, one theme has surfaced repeatedly: strong institutions are built long before they’re tested.

This is especially relevant today. Higher education continues to navigate a period of rapid change, with evolving immigration policies, shifting student decision-making, and growing competition for global talent. In moments like these, the strength of an institution is reflected in the relationships it’s built, the values that guide its decisions, and its willingness to invest in the future.

You’ll see that thread throughout this edition – from welcoming the Cité internationale universitaire de Paris into the International House Association, to conversations about international education, and recognition for the people who make International House Berkeley what it is every day.

Thank you for being part of this community.

Shaun Carver, I-House Executive Director

Shaun R. Carver Ed.D., MBA
Executive Director and CEO
International House at UC Berkeley
linkedin.com/in/shauncarver

Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris Joins International House Association

This summer, the Cité internationale universitaire de Paris officially joined the International House Association, strengthening a partnership that dates back nearly a century.

Founded in 1925 in the aftermath of World War I, the Cité internationale was built on the belief that bringing young people together across national boundaries could help contribute to a more peaceful future. That vision closely reflects the origins of the International House movement, which began in New York in 1924 with the support of John D. Rockefeller Jr.

The connection between the two institutions is longstanding. International House at the Cité internationale, inaugurated in 1936, became the first International House established in Europe.

Today, the Cité internationale welcomes 12,000 students, researchers, and artists from more than 150 nationalities each year. Its addition brings Paris into a network that now connects communities in Berkeley, Chicago, London, New Delhi, Tokyo, and Paris.

At a time when academic freedom, student mobility, and international cooperation are under pressure, this partnership reminds me that the infrastructure supporting global exchange remains worth strengthening.

Read the Announcement »

In Conversation on Changing Higher Ed Podcast

I recently joined Dr. Drumm McNaughton on the Changing Higher Ed podcast for a conversation on international enrollment, student mobility, and how colleges and universities may need to rethink global strategy.

The episode explored how international student enrollment is shifting unevenly across higher education. Top-tier global institutions remain resilient, while regional private colleges and tier-two public institutions face greater exposure as families weigh academic opportunity against visa uncertainty, political climate, and perceived safety.

We also discussed why institutions may need to look beyond the traditional model of bringing students to the United States and consider new ways of taking academic delivery to the world through partnerships, global hubs, and hybrid models.

The conversation also returned to a central theme for I-House: international students are not only a source of tuition revenue. They strengthen classrooms, communities, research, innovation, and the long-term global reach of higher education.

Listen to the Conversation »

A Recognition Worth Celebrating

In our spring edition of Global Perspectives, we shared that International House Berkeley had been named a finalist in the 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Awards.

We’re delighted to share that we’re winners! Being named one of the Top 100 Inspiring Workplaces across North America.

This recognition reflects a people-centered approach shaped by purpose, steady leadership, and a workplace culture grounded in respect and shared responsibility. Our staff operates in a complex, multicultural residential environment where communication, collaboration, and adaptability are essential to daily work.

Over recent years, we’ve seen measurable improvements across both staff experience and resident outcomes. Resident satisfaction scores have risen steadily, alongside a significant increase in net promoter score, reflecting stronger community connection and support.

We have also continued to invest in long-term infrastructure and operational alignment, strengthening both the employee experience and the quality of support we provide to residents.

This recognition belongs to every member of our team who helps create an environment where people from around the world can live, learn, and grow together.

See the North American Winners Here »

Worth A Read

Across the past few months, the I-House leadership team has contributed to conversations examining student mobility, visa policy, belonging, and the role of global education today. Those conversations include:

National Post
Canada, US Both Roll Back Welcome Mat for International Students

I spoke with the National Post about attracting the next generation of innovators, researchers, leaders, and beyond. Creating environments where students feel welcome and supported has never been more important.

Read the Article »

Financial Times
US Universities Will Require More Than a Court Ruling

I shared my perspective with the Financial Times on why the federal court ruling against the proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee addresses only part of the problem. My argument was that while the policy may have been struck down, the uncertainty it created continues to shape how international talent views the United States as a place to build a career.

Read my Letter »

The PIE News
Trump’s $100,000 H-1B Fee Ruled Unlawful

I spoke with The PIE News on the wider impact of visa uncertainty on international students and the global talent pipeline. As competition for talent intensifies, students, researchers, and founders have more options, and policy uncertainty can influence decisions from education through to career choice.

Read the Article »

EdTech Chronicle
Nayeli Vivanco Shares Practical Strategies for EdTech Companies

Our Chief Student Experience Officer, Nayeli Vivanco, spoke with EdTech Chronicle about belonging, mattering, and the human experience of learning. She discussed why access alone does not guarantee engagement, and why students need connection, confidence, and support to thrive.

Read Nayeli’s Q&A »

Forbes
Across three recent Forbes Nonprofit Council discussions, I explored different dimensions of leadership and organizational resilience. While each article focused on a distinct topic, they all reflect principles that continue to shape our work at International House.

From Our House to Yours

Thank you to all the donors, supporters, and advocates of I-House Berkeley. Together, we create a global community where understanding transcends borders.

Make a Gift

I-House logo Tenth Decade