Dear I-House Community,
This month marks the beginning of a new era on campus with Rich Lyons as the Chancellor of UC Berkeley following Chancellor Carol Christ’s seven years of leadership. In her last update newsletter, Christ writes: "My final lesson to you is to seek a return to civil conversation, even with people whose opinions or lives differ from yours. Hold honesty, care, love, and respect close.”
These words are a perfect summation of the I-House ethos. While I-House will miss Chancellor Christ’s insights as the chair of our Board, we also look forward to working closely with Chancellor Lyons to further our shared mission of encouraging students to think beyond themselves and question the status quo. Thank you, Chancellor Christ, and welcome, Chancellor Lyons!
I was glad to sit down with James Shafer for the Ed Up International Podcast to discuss parallels between the world of 1930 and today, the importance of promoting empathy and understanding, and the role of International House. You can listen to our full conversation here
I have been truly pleased to see the strength of the I-House alumni community this summer. In June, I-House welcomed approximately 60 alumni and many current residents for the quarterly I-House alumni happy hour at Edmonds’ Cafe. I was also privileged to visit with more than 100 I-House alumni at alumni gatherings in Singapore, Taipei, Shanghai, and Tokyo. Thanks to everyone who joined in the fun. If you’d like to help organize an alumni gathering in your country, please let us know at alumni@ihouseberkeley.org
And there is more to come. I am looking forward to seeing many more of you on August 18th for our annual All Years Alumni Reunion Brunch in the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Dining Commons here at I-House. This joyous event is another opportunity to gather with old friends, share cherished I-House memories, and make new connections within our ever-growing I-House global community.
Finally, I’m very happy to let you know that we are re-launching the popular I-House Host Family Program! This program allows Bay Area-based I-House alumni and friends to host current I-House residents. It’s a great opportunity for cultural exchange and learning. Please read on to learn more.
Sincerely,
Shaun R. Carver Ed.D., MBA
Executive Director and CEO
International House at UC Berkeley
