Dear I-House Community,
Today’s global unrest serves as a stark reminder of why fostering international relationships matters so deeply.
I had the opportunity to speak recently with Emma Whitford of Forbes about international student enrollment in U.S. institutions of higher education. Throughout my career, I've witnessed firsthand the immense contributions international students make to our academic communities and innovation ecosystem. While political rhetoric shifts and visa policies evolve, our commitment to supporting international students must remain steadfast. You can read the full article here.
I’m proud to share that last month, Nayeli Vivanco, VP of Resident Life and Intercultural Development at I-House, took the stage at SXSW EDU (an annual conference of educators, administrators, policymakers, students, visionaries, and others from around the world) where she spoke passionately about the role of free speech in our polarized world and how to give everyone a voice. Her talk is now available on our Thought Leadership Playlist on Spotify.
I’m also filled with gratitude as I reflect upon a truly remarkable month that, for me, has highlighted the joy, strength, and importance of our community.
Thanks to all who joined us—whether in person or in spirit—for our 2025 Celebration and Awards Gala. Your support made it an unforgettable event and raised vital funds for I-House. I invite you to enjoy this short video highlighting the evening.
Earlier this week, I was honored to gather in New York City with alumni from International Houses Berkeley, Japan, London, New York, Chicago, and Washington D.C. Together, we celebrated our global community and our shared vision of peace. While in NYC, we also launched the first I-House Berkeley Alumni Club. A heartfelt thanks to our East Coast alumni for the warm welcome and enthusiastic support!
Back in Berkeley, our Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office (RIO) team is in full swing, hosting over 25 events this month alone, and more than 200 since the start of the academic year! Last weekend, we held the culminating session of the Global Leadership Program, and our final Sunday Supper of the year—a cherished tradition that continues to unite residents through conversation and culture.
If you’re nearby I-House, I hope you'll join us for some of the events happening soon: the Lodestar AI Summit on April 16, the International Cultural Festival on April 26, and the I-House Alumni Happy Hour on April 30, when we’ll welcome current IH residents into our alumni community.
Our Swag Store is restocked with classic and new favorites—perfect for spring! Don’t miss the chance to represent I-House wherever you go.
I invite you to become a monthly donor to I-House, so that you can help sustain the programs, scholarships, and opportunities that define the I-House experience. Every gift, no matter the size, helps us build a more just and peaceful world.
With appreciation,
Shaun R. Carver Ed.D., MBA
Executive Director and CEO
International House at UC Berkeley
linkedin.com/in/shauncarver
Pictured above at the April 7th gathering at I-House New York, from left to right:
David Janes, International House of Japan
Shaun Carver, International House at UC Berkeley
Sebastian Fries, International House New York
Denise Jorgens, International House University of Chicago
Martin Chalker, International Students House, London
Daniel Bremer-Wirtig, International Student House, Washington DC
