Over 170 meals were served to University of Iowa students and members of the surrounding community during a special Thanksgiving meal event on Monday, November 22. 

Sponsored by International Programs, the Center for Diversity and Enrichment, and the Office of the Dean of Students, the event was made possible, in part, due to the generosity of Bev Brandau, 1948 UI grad, whose endowment seeks to support programs that directly facilitate interactions between international students and the community.

For students who stay on campus during Fall Break week, the meal offered an opportunity for them to celebrate Thanksgiving, eat with other students and community members, and join in community with each other.

The Thanksgiving meal offered a unique chance for international students and scholars—many of whom brought their family members—to experience Thanksgiving for the first time.

The meal was catered by HyVee and featured turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetarian stuffing, macaroni and cheese, green bean casserole, dinner rolls, apple pie, and pumpkin pie. In-person dining and grab-and-go options were available.

"The convivial atmosphere reminded all of us how pleasant (and necessary) it is to gather in person to share stories, enjoy good food, and build friendships," commented Russ Ganim, associate provost and dean of International Programs.