GLOBAL CONNECTIONS
The Office of Global Affairs
Maria Diemer
Executive Director of OGA and Academic Advisor
Lori Drummond
English Language Institute Instructor
Julie Griffith Associate Director of OGA and Global Fellow
Maggie Kasicki
English Language Institute
Business Adj. Prof
Terri Anderson English Language Institute Instructor
The Office of Global Affairs
Spring 2025 Student Workers
Suvd- Erdene
Byamba
Mongolia
MBA
Graduate Assistant
Rodrigo Iglesias Alberdi
Spain
MBA
Mateo Fernandez Solari
Argentina
MBA
Graduate Assistant
harthi abia
Senior yber Security, Criminal Justice
Aisha Murat
Kazakhstan
Sophomore
Cyber Security
Manel Benjereb
France Freshman
Business Admin
Rahaf Tolah
Saudi Arabia
Senior Nursing
Minh Thu Tran (Jessica)
Vietnam
Freshman
Digital Marketing
Ali Alrizqi
Saudi Arabia
Junior
Computer Science
LUNAR
This time of year can be especially challenging for international students studying abroad, as Lunar New Year is all about family, gathering together, and letting go of the past to welcome a fresh start.
Families typically come together to cook, eat well, play games, and share ancient stories. It’s a meaningful time for reconnecting, reflecting on life’s challenges, and celebrating good news.
Since our Rockford University students from Asia are here during the school year, we had the chance to celebrate Lunar New Year at Nicholas Conservatory Garden for the second time, alongside the Rockford community. There were tables representing different countries across Asia, and Rockford University added color to the event with tables from Japan, Vietnam, Mongolia, and China.
NEW YEAR
We showcased traditional Lunar New Year games and activities—Chinese lucky money, Mongolian wooden puzzles, Japanese Kendama, and Vietnamese water prints—along with four different types of candies and snacks.
For many of our exchange students from China, Japan, and Vietnam, this was their first time celebrating Lunar New Year in the U.S. They shared that it truly felt like being home that day, thanks to the warmth of the community and the opportunity to share their traditions while learning from others. One of our students from Mongolia even took the stage as a guest speaker and performed a song in her language.
International Around
Every year, Rockford University, together with its students, promotes an event that connects several countries around the world, the International Food Festival (IFF). At this event, the international students present their countries, presenting information about culture and some typical foods to all people who participate or visit the event. Other students, teachers, family, friends and the community are invited
In a large space provided by the university, each country had its own table, where students could decorate and freely display their cultures Upon arrival, guests received a passport to present at each table they visited where they received a stamp. In addition to tasting typical foods and drinks from each country, visitors were able to learn more about the culture, history and interesting facts. More than 30 countries from different continents and cultures were represented.
After the presentation of the tables, the event included a dinner, where a chef prepared a typical dish from each country, so that students, guests and visitors could taste. The food was all identified with the name of each country, making it easy for everyone to get to know each dish better The tables were decorated with the flags of each country. It was possible to find typical dishes from Egypt, Japan, France, Brazil, Argentina and others.
Food Festival The World
The event ended with a very representative flag ceremony. The students walked among the guests and visitors with the flags of their countries to the sound of the national anthems until the main stage, to say their name, where they are from and welcome in their languages. This event connected people from all cultures.
In conclusion, the International Food Festival was a celebration of cultural diversity and getting together people from all over the world, allowing them to share traditions, foods, and stories. The event shows the beauty of connection and understanding between different cultures, leaving everyone with a sense of unity and joy.
By Viviane Prado Montalvao
International Celebration
On April 5, 2025, Rockford University hosted its International Food Festival—and for the first time, it included a special Eid celebration. As an ESL instructor, I was honored to represent both my culture and my students at this unforgettable event. This year, the festival aligned with Eid al-Fitr, the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. As someone experiencing this for the first time in the United States, it was incredibly emotional and meaningful. Being able to celebrate not only my holiday but also proudly represent my country, my flag, and my culture—together with my classmates, professors, amazing team members, and students—was truly unforgettable. It was not just my celebration; it was a moment of unity and pride shared by many. Ramadan is a month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth. After fasting for 30 days, Muslims celebrate Eid for three joyful days—visiting friends and family, dressing up, and enjoying sweet treats. It was my first time celebrating this special holiday without my family, and yet I felt deeply connected thanks to the love and support from our university community.
Food Festival of Eid
Rockford University gave all of us the opportunity to share our traditions with others. At the entrance, a beautiful poster welcomed guests with Eid greetings in different languages. The Arab United student group prepared a fantastic table full of sweets, decorations, and goodie bags filled with Arabic cologne, stickers, and information about the holiday. Their creativity and generosity added so much warmth to the event.
I prepared a slideshow called “Eid Around the World,” which played throughout the event to help students, staff, professors, and guests see how this holiday is celebrated across cultures. The Eid table featured traditional Turkish desserts alongside sweets from Jordan, Palestine, and other countries. Seeing our guests, especially my ESL students and friends, genuinely enjoy learning about our religious celebration brought so much joy to my heart. This experience reminded us all that when we celebrate together, we create space for connection, understanding, and joy—no matter where we come from.
By Rose Ulas
International A Taste of Home
By Mateo Fernandez Solari
Chef David, the friendly face behind the scenes at Rockford University’s dining services, has been serving up more than just meals for the past two years
As the executive chef with Fresh Ideas, he oversees the campus’s food production and operations But when the International Dinner rolls around, his role expands to something much more personal
For him, Rockford University’s International Food Festival is more than a culinary event—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection
But when the International Dinner rolls around, his role expands to something much more personal.
“Fresh Ideas enjoys challenges, and the International Food Festival is probably one of the biggest we face every year,” he shared. “But it’s a good challenge one that brings people together.”
- Chef David
This year, students from around the globe took over the kitchen to share their heritage through food. From French ratatouille to Spanish rice pudding and Argentine empanadas 500 of them Chef David and his team coordinated the logistics, ingredients, and preparation
As a Filipino himself, he deeply resonates with the students’ experience “Being far away from home, I know how it feels Working with the students feels like working with my little brothers and sisters It’s more than cooking it’s family ”
The event also brought some memorable moments “I turned around, and there was Spanish music playing, students dancing, empanadas frying it wasn’t just a kitchen—it was a celebration.”
Beyond the event, these experiences shape the everyday menu at Rockford. “I’m always asking students what they want to eat,” he said. “Some of these recipes might even make it into our regular cycle except maybe the empanadas,” he joked, “unless I get a whole army to help make them!”
Chef David’s passion for bringing international flavors to the table is evident “It’s not just students learning from me I’m learning from them too ” Thanks to his dedication, and with the incredible support from Chad and the entire Fresh Ideas team, the International Dinner became a vibrant celebration of cultural exchange a space where stories were shared, traditions honored, and connections made through the universal language of food
Chef David & Chad during the Flag Ceremony
Food Festival Flag Ceremony
By Julie Griffith
The International Food Festival finale, the flag ceremony, started with a line-up of 38 countries in the Office of Global Affairs – a record number! Students and faculty paraded through the dining hall as a teaser to let people know that the flag ceremony would be starting soon. Excitement mounted as students stopped in the hallway just short of their grand entrance into Regents Hall.
Finally, it was time for that once-a-year celebration where all countries on campus come together in a magnificent display of color and culture. Each student walked down the aisle in Regents Hall with some dressed in traditional clothing as sounds of their national anthems filled the air Regents Hall was packed with an audience who respectfully cheered and welcomed each participant Each student introduced themselves and said, “hello” or “welcome” in the language of their choice. At the end, Reggie the mascot came forward for a photo shoot with all the flags and flag bearers This proud moment is a beautiful picture of the unity and harmony that the Rockford University International Program seeks to embody.
The Hispanic & Cultural Club
(HCC) was established in September of 2024, with the goal of creating a University community who spoke Spanish and or were interested in beginning to speak another language were able to do so without any judgement.
As the ideas flew and actions were taken, the organization’s goals changed as well. As of April 2025, Hispanic & Cultural Club not only has created a safe place for the Spanish speaking community,
but they have created a safe place for those who are part of the Hispanic culture. With such support students have had the opportunity to share their culture with the community on campus from staff, students and beyond to the community of Rockford as well.
HCC created traditions at RU such as an annual cookout where we share our Mexican community favorite and main dishes to eat during the warm weather. HCC made opportunities like hosting a fundraiser where a partnership with surrounding communities created a goal of raising funds to support RU students.
From meetings, to volunteerism, to trips, and creating fun events, HCC has created representation at Rockford University. They have opened doors that lead students and staff to a safe space where they can proudly share their roots and their interests with curiosity and love.
By Karina Campos Alva
GALA
By Karina Campos Alva
Celebrating Opportunity at Rockford University
Each year, Rockford University hosts a special night—the annual Gala welcoming the community to celebrate opportunities for students and staff Organized by the Advancement team, this meaningful event raised funds for the Student Opportunity Fund (SOF), which supports educational experiences that empower learning both locally and globally
Whether it’s a short trip within the U.S. or an international journey, SOF helps make impactful, lifeshaping experiences possible It enables students to grow in their passions, values, and skills beyond the classroom The Gala not only unites RU and local communities but also honors the past, celebrates the present, and creates a future full of opportunity for all RU students
Student Opportunity Fund
“As a first-generation Mexicana, obtaining a higher education never crossed my mind. If you would have told younger Karina that her dream to continue education and her dream to travel the world would have become a reality, and that during that time she would practice her future teaching skills as well as her translating skills, she’d probably tell you that such a thing was just another dream Yet, it was a dream that to this day continues to be surreal The opportunity I received to travel to Cuba last summer next to Dr Yoandy Cabrera-Ortega with my best friends and great peers from Rockford University was truly a blessing. Memories and experiences showed me how privileged I truly am here in the US.
allowed me to realize that no matter where or to be more aware and grateful for what is share my endless gratitude with those who possible by donating, advocating or organizing
Your hard work will forever be valued and cherished. Because of your courage and efforts, past, present, and future students are allowed to take such life changing trips around the world, just like me.”
*Karina gave this speech at the Gala on February 8, 2025, to raise money for the Student Opportunity Fund.
International Cafe
As an international student, I have had the pleasure of meeting all the fantastic people involved in the International Cafe. Mostly international students and families from the local area gather every other week to socialize and eat together, and a lot of games have also been played during these evenings.
The International Cafe has offered a break from my studies, and for me it has become one of the highlights of the week. I admit that at first, I was a little skeptical about the welcoming and genuine atmosphere that was there when I first attended. In Sweden, where I come from, the atmosphere is usually a little wary the first time you meet new people. But apparently Americans are superior to us Swedes in welcoming new people, and every meeting has been characterized by the same warm welcome and community.
I have developed strong bonds with many of the people I have met during these evenings. It has been appreciated to have a friend outside the university who has different experiences and perspectives than my own. The International Cafe has been a major contributor to my positive experience during my exchange period, and this collaboration is something the university can be very proud of. Finally, I would like to extend a big thank you to everyone involved in the International Cafe and the job you do. I know that your work is greatly appreciated by both me and all the other students.
By Oskar Jaconson
Fun In the Snow
Our international students had an amazing time on our snow tubing trip, organized by the Office of Global Affairs! This was our first field trip of the year, and we were lucky to have perfect winter weather with fresh snow. Everyone was excited for the trip, and it turned out to be a fantastic day full of fun and laugher. As soon as we arrived at the tubing hill, students quickly grabbed their tubes and rushed to the top.
By Suvd-Erdere Byamba
Some students raced each other down the hill, while others simply enjoyed sliding down the snowy slope. The fresh snow made it even more exciting, and students were enjoying going up with moving carpet as it made it easy from the bottom. But the fun didn’t stop there! After tubing, students started a big snow fight. Some had not played in the snow since middle school, and for others, it was their very first time experiencing a snowball fight.
Everyone joined in, throwing snow at each other and running around in the snow. Suvda, the Office of Global Affairs Graduate Assistant from Mongolia, shared her experience: “We had a snow fight, and my car even got filled with snow! I had no choice but to join in. It was so much fun, and it reminded many of us of childhood memories. As university students, some hadn’t played in the snow for years, so it was a really special moment for them.” Students started their day on campus, cheering for our school’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. After the game, OGA hosted a pizza party where everyone ate, relaxed, and shared their favorite moments. Later, the fun continued with a tubing trip, bringing lots of excitement and laughter. It was a day to remember, and everyone had a great time. One thing is clear—we have to do it again next year!
Student Vibes
English Language Institute (ESL)
During this semester, the teachers took a lively group of students on field trips. One morning at 9 a.m., Maggie drove us to the coffee shop by bus We went to Katie’s Cup coffee shop The place was cozy, with warm vibes and stylish decor When we arrived, Rose, Lori and Terri were already there.
We all sat together, and Terri asked everyone, “Have you ever been to a coffee shop with a friend in your country?” Everyone shared stories Then Maggie said we could read some books or find a game to play We played UNO together There was lots of laughter and friendly competition. That day, I suggested a new way to play UNO. They were surprised, but they loved it! At the end, we took a group photo, which we kept as a memory This short trip was a great time spent with international students!
By Shouq Alharbi
Ballet Field Trip
English Language Institute (ESL)
On the day of the ballet field trip with my ESL classmates, we decided to meet at school at nine o’clock. We were all excited to try ballet for the first time. On that day, one of our teachers decided to come and pick us up by bus early in the morning On this really cute and comfortable bus, we first went to a coffee shop Along the way, we were chatting with classmates on the bus. After a few minutes, we arrived at the coffee shop, where we found the other teachers.
Then we sat in a circle to chat among ourselves and after a few minutes, we decided to play games like Uno About an hour later, we took our bus back to the campus to attend a ballet class, the main activity of the day. We first started to remove our shoes to start doing the ballet. There was a ballet teacher who helped us a lot with this classical dance, and we all participated in the dancing and exercises.
The ballet students and former ESL students congratulated the ESL teachers and students. .We took lots of pictures while dancing and we were all happy; the teachers really had fun like us. To finish the day, we went to a drawing art class where we learned a lot about the art of drawing, which was really interesting This day was wonderful and really fun, a day that I will never forget It allowed us to learn new words in English and practice our English.
By Miriam Guindo
Business Project
English Language Institute
Increasingly, in our modern societies, everything tends towards the standardization and normalization of technical processes. On the one hand, this is convenient as it simplifies exchanges. In a globalized world where interactions between different countries are crucial and the goal is to maximize profits, it is legitimate to ask whether this excessive normalization does not destroy the culture of each country
Take the case of France, which seems particularly interesting to me I am not an expert, and what I am about to say is just my feeling Metropolitan France has largely destroyed the regional languages that were spoken on its territory There are still a few enclaves where these regional languages are preserved, but these are very minor. By acting in this way, isn’t France depriving itself of an immense cultural source? Diversity has always been a strength, and it is by sharing different points of view and having varied perspectives that we can create something new and surprising
It is from this observation that the idea for an international restaurant was born There are different culinary cultures around the world. Here, we will highlight four cultures from four countries: Mali, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and France. The goal is to have four chefs, each representing one of these countries, who will create a monthly menu together. This will offer a new way of looking at cuisine, by fusing varied culinary traditions and celebrating cultural diversity
By Sacha Comte
Soci game: bafa bafa
We had a chance to play a sociology game with Professor Tim Johnson. He seemed like a truly interesting person from the very first glance. The first time he walked into our office, I (Suvda), and my coworker Mateo had no idea what he was about to introduce to us. He was carrying a red DoorDash food bag with foil insulation inside and wearing a dark green shirt and a grey hat. When he introduced himself and asked if we would like to play a game with him and his class, we didn’t quite know what to expect. Then he opened his red bag and pulled out a white Chick-fil-A sandwich bag, which contained five different colored cards with numbers and unique pictures. He handed out instructions and explained that if we agreed to play the game and experience it, we would have to belong to two different worlds, each with its own language, games, card colors, and symbols. Both worlds would have their secrets.
We agreed, and one of our advisors, Julie, also decided to join. On Thursday at exactly 12:30, we joined the classroom. I chose to be one of the observers since I had already read about both worlds. Julie and Mateo participated in the game. As an international graduate student from Mongolia, it was truly fascinating to watch people divided into two different worlds, each developing its own language and culture through the game. It made me reflect on what it’s like to enter an unfamiliar place and begin to learn and adapt and how we rely on our eyes, ears, and brain to understand and navigate these new environments. Then, when we return to where we came from - our home country - we carry back those experiences and share what we’ve learned. Personally, observing this from a third-person perspective made me realize how powerful and insightful this experimental game can be. It helps us better understand both foreigners and international students as well as local students through a shared experience.
Honor Awards – College of Arts & Humanities
The Dedrick Prize in Art – Anaya Batbayar
The Dedrick Prize in Art is given in memory of Professor Emeritus of Art History, Philip Dedrick Philip’s gentle spirit and dedication to his students are remembered in this prize which is presented to a student, based on outstanding academic performance and GPA.
Honors Day
Honor Awards – Puri School of Business
Outstanding Organizational Leadership Student of the Year - Margot Buisson
University Awards
Francisco Mandujano Jr. Academic Achievement Award –Felipe Bentes Chaves
Duarte Francesco, known as Kiko by his family, was a smart young man who had learning comprehension obstacles, but through the Learning Center at his school he found his goals to be achievable.
This award, given by his family, honors all students for their dedication and efforts to complete their education and who pursue their academic success by using the HUB (previously Center for Learning Strategies) This award honors those students who persist!
Awards
Dr. Marjorie Slavens Global Service Award Karina Camos
The Office of Global Affairs Slavens Global Service Award recognizes outstanding commitment and dedication to global service and community engagement by a Rockford University student The recipient of this award embodies the spirit of global citizenship, actively engaging in initiatives that promote cross-cultural understanding, ethnic inclusiveness, and multicultural awareness.
Global Citizenship Award Shouq Alharbi
The Global Citizenship Award is presented to students who show exceptional inter- cultural competence as an international ambassador on campus and are an agent of change They also participate in and bring to fruition internationalization projects.
Global Leadership Award
Aisha Murat (not pictured)
Tianyu (Cissy) Sun
The Global Leadership Award is given to students who lead international and domestic students through spreading and practicing international competence. A Global Leader works with students, faculty, and staff as agents of change and leads the call of internationalization on campus. The work of these individuals has made a profound and positive impact on Rockford University’s campus.
Honors Day awards
Mary Ashby Cheek Global Award
Dr. Luis Romero, Ed.D.
David Carandang
This award honors those who advance internationalization at the university through study abroad leadership, international student recruitment, global partnerships, or fostering multicultural perspectives on campus
Athletic Director’s Honor Roll
The Rockford University Athletic Department names student-athletes to the 2024-25 Athletic Director’s Honor Roll Student-athletes must maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3 0 and complete an entire season in at least one sport or currently be in-season in order to receive this prestigious honor.
Mahault Quillet women’s soccer
Javier Palacios men’s soccer
Tsubasa Namai men’s volleyball
Mateo Fernandez Solari men’s soccer
GLOBAL SPOTLIGHT AWARD SPRING 2025
Tianyu (Cissy) Sun
Tianyu Sun, a pioneer of the Chinese Nanjing Sport 3+1 articulation with Rockford University, is a sports management major with a business administration minor She has actively promoted cross-cultural engagement on campus She coorganized a Chinese hot pot cultural experience with the Office of Global Affairs, fostering connections between international and local students through food and shared traditions. She also regularly participates in International Coffee events and recently suggested merging one with a men’s volleyball game to increase attendance and promote cultural exchange within the athletic community Tianyu also represented the Chinese booth at the International Food Festival, continuing her commitment to enriching the campus's cultural diversity. She believes cultural advocacy goes beyond participation — it involves building bridges, encouraging inclusion, and inspiring others to appreciate different perspectives Through the Global Spotlight Award, she hopes to further promote the value of intercultural communication and motivate more students to get involved.
ArabsUnitedhasquicklyemergedasaleadingforceforcultural engagementatRockfordUniversity.Sinceitsfounding,theclub hasconsistentlycelebratedandsharedArabculturethrough impactfuleventsthatinvitebothArabandnon-Arabstudents intomeaningfulcross-culturaldialogue.Theseinitiativeshave deepenedcampus-wideunderstandingandappreciationof Arabhistory,heritage,andtraditions,makingtheclubavibrant contributortotheuniversity’sdiversecommunity.
Morethanjusteventorganizers,ArabsUnitedhasbecomea catalystforinclusivityandculturalawareness.Theirwork reflectsthecorevaluesofopenness,connection,andmutual respect,creatingwelcomingspaceswherediversevoicescanbe heard.Bypromotingcross-culturalunderstandingandinspiring studentstoexploredifferentperspectives,theclubembodiesthe missionoftheGlobalSpotlightAwardandcontinuestoleavea lastingmarkoncampuslife.
Arabs United CLub
International Graduates
Spring 2025
International Graduates
Spring 2025
International Graduates
Spring 2025
Where is our Alumni Dez ?
By Quentin Hernandez
I’m Quentin Hernandez, from Aix-en-Provence, France I came to Rockford University to chase my dreams of playing basketball while pursuing an education, something I couldn’t do back home in France.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Management Information Systems, and after graduating, I returned to France to work as a data analyst at Airbus Helicopters Later, I came back to Rockford to earn my MBA with a concentration in Finance. During my time at Rockford, I worked as a Resident Assistant (RA), a Graduate Assistant for Global Affairs, and as a data analyst for Sweet Futures during my CPT.
Today, I’m the Data Governance Manager for Airbus Helicopters in North America, where I ensure data is not only accurate and accessible but also secure, helping drive innovation and decision-making across the organization Alongside my career, I founded Utopia, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting ambitious dreamers, empowering them to turn their visions into reality. Rockford University had a profound impact on my personal and professional growth. The Global Affairs office gave me a global perspective that’s been essential in my career. My MBA helped me refine my leadership and business acumen, while my time on the basketball team taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. These lessons continue to fuel my passion for making a difference, both in my career and through the work I do with Utopia
