Executive Director Message

Global Perspectives: Spring 2026

April 30, 2026

Dear I-House Community,

As the year gathers pace, the global context surrounding higher education continues to shift in ways that directly shape student experience. Policy changes, visa uncertainty, and public rhetoric are influencing how students assess where they study, how they participate, and whether they feel secure doing so. What once sat in the background of decision-making is now part of it.

At the same time, the need for meaningful cross-cultural connections has not diminished. If anything, it has become more urgent. Institutions are being asked to create...

Engaging Across Difference Survey

April 29, 2026
Survey Finds Students Embrace Open Dialogue, But Global Tensions Shape What They Say

Latest data from International House Berkeley shows students support engaging with controversial ideas, but favor structured, supportive environments over disruption

BERKELEY, Calif., April 29, 2026 – International House Berkeley (I-House Berkeley), the multicultural residential center promoting a more just and peaceful world, today released findings from its second comprehensive resident survey on...

Free Speech and Expression at International House

December 4, 2024
In summary -- the data reveals that I-House Berkeley fosters a supportive environment for free speech, with a significant majority of residents feeling safe and comfortable expressing their views, even on controversial topics. I-House students demonstrate a strong commitment to respectful dialogue and civil discourse in stark contrast to national trends. 88% of I-House Berkeley students feel safe expressing their views. 94% are comfortable sharing controversial opinions with fellow residents. 83% feel comfortable expressing their views to other UC Berkeley students. 82% are comfortable discussing their viewpoints with professors. 91% of I-House respondents trust their leaders to protect free speech. 62% believe I-House does more to safeguard free speech than UC Berkeley. 80% disagree with shouting down speakers. 92% oppose blocking students from attending events. 97% are against using violence to protest. 64% will speak up even when they feel uneasy. 60% admit to self-censoring in other campus environments. 85% express confidence in the future of free speech at I-House. 88% of Students at Berkeley I-House Feel Safe Expressing Views, Defying National Free Speech Trend on College Campuses

The I-House Connection: April 2026

April 9, 2026

Dear I-House Community,

Learning about other cultures is one thing. Actually living side by side with those from different cultures is another. That distinction is at the heart of what we do at I-House. We give residents both.

Residents of I-House on the patio during a Sunday SupperThrough our Global Leadership Program, resident leadership roles, and Projects for...

The I-House Connection: March 2026

March 19, 2026

Dear I-House Community,

Some of my favorite moments at I-House are the ones where people choose to come together — and this month, you did.

 Marc Fisher, Vice Chancellor UC Berkeley; Victor Pineda, Alumnus of the Year; Bob Wong, Mission Service Award; Shaun Carver, I-House CEO; Paige Lyles, Community LeadershipEarlier this...

The I-House Connection: February 2026

February 12, 2026

Dear I-House Community,Lunar New Year lion dancers 2026

February at I-House has been full of life. Just last night, we celebrated Lunar New Year with lion dancers, red envelopes, and a feast honoring the many Asian cultures that mark this special occasion. Nights like that remind me that food, tradition, and joyful celebration are some of the most powerful tools we have for bringing...

Global Perspectives: Winter 2026

January 28, 2026

Dear I-House Community,

With 2026 well underway, higher education in the United States continues to operate in a changing policy landscape that shapes who feels able to travel, study, and participate fully in academic life. Discussions around expanding travel restrictions understandably raise concerns for international students and scholars whose work depends on mobility and access. At the same time, they sharpen the importance of institutions that remain committed to openness, exchange, and connection.

What I’ve learned is that uncertainty does not stay abstract for long. It...

The I-House Connection: January 2026

January 7, 2026

Dear I-House Community,

I-House side view with evening skyWinter break is a quiet time at I-House because most residents have traveled home for the holidays. But we have more staying with us than usual this year. Some are working on research projects, others are exploring California, and some have found travel more complicated due to changes in immigration policies. For all of them, I-...

International House Strengthens Leadership Team to Enhance Student Experience and Operational Excellence

November 18, 2025
Strategic reorganization positions I-House for centennial campaign and next phase of growth

International House Berkeley (I-House Berkeley), the multicultural residential center promoting a more just and peaceful world, today announced key leadership promotions designed to strengthen operational excellence and elevate the student experience. Nayeli Vivanco has been promoted to Chief Student Experience Officer, and Ernie Costello has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer.

The new organizational structure represents a strategic evolution that...

The I-House Connection: December 2025

December 11, 2025

Dear I-House Community,

Last week, something happened on the Underhill soccer field that reminded me why I-House exists — and it had nothing to do with the final score.

Our two I-House intramural teams, the I-House All-Stars Football Club and I-House Football Club, faced off to see who would advance to the league finals. Both teams were undefeated this semester, which meant this match was always going to be intense. In the end, the game came down to penalty kicks, with I-House Football Club pulling out the win....