In recognition of the countless achievements of our international undergraduate and graduate students, and their accomplishments in reaching graduation, the spring 2023 University of Iowa (UI) International Student Graduation Celebration will be held on Thursday, May 11, 2023, from 3 to 5:30 p.m., at the Graduate Hotel in downtown Iowa City. 

The ceremony will recognize graduating international students with the conferral of affinity cords, and awards will be given to outstanding graduating international students in the following categories: civic engagement, leadership, academic and scholarly achievement, and international community advocacy.  

“This wonderful celebration honoring our international graduates underscores the countless contributions international students make to our community.”

A keynote address will be given by Dr. Azeez Butali, the Gilbert Lily endowed professor of oral pathology, radiology, and medicine, and professor of Iowa Institute for Oral Health in the UI College of Dentistry. Two graduating international students will speak: Joanne Constantine, who is graduating with a PhD in health services and policy, and Hsin Chen, who is graduating with a BA in interdepartmental studies (health science - global health). 

“This wonderful celebration honoring our international graduates underscores the countless contributions international students make to our community,” says Russ Ganim, associate provost and dean of UI International Programs. “What is especially meaningful about the International Student Graduation Celebration is sharing the occasion with the friends and families of our graduates. We are honored that the Hawkeye nation extends all over the world.”  

The International Student Graduation Celebration is hosted in part by the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, UI International Programs, UI International Student Support and Engagement, UI Graduate and Professional Student Government, UI Carver College of Medicine, UI College of Education, UI College of Engineering, UI College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, UI College of Law, UI College of Pharmacy, UI Graduate College, UI Tippie College of Business, and the UI Libraries. 

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.