Signature Events

Each year the ISSS team hosts a handful of signature events that are yearly traditions amongst our International community on campus. These events serve as cornerstones for our students as they experience life on campus and allow us to celebrate the big moments, even when miles away from home, together.  

Thanksgiving Dinner: In the spirit of Thankfulness, we invite all international students who are on campus to join us in celebrating the American Tradition of Thanksgiving. This event typically entails a full thanksgiving dinner along with thank you card writing and fun festivities to get into the holiday spirit. 

International Education Week: The national celebration of International Education Week typically during the second week of November. During this week, the Center for Global Engagement engages students lead programing throughout the week so the Gonzaga Community to learn, eat & explore new games and activities from all over the world alongside our global zags! 

Graduation Formal: We close out the year with an opportunity to congratulate all of our graduating international students and invite them to our International Student Graduation Formal. This event celebrates all our zags have achieved during their time at GU as they enjoy an evening filled with photo ops, entertainment, delicious catering and dancing at the beautiful Bozarth mansion.

Other Events and Activities

Each month, notable seasonal events are highlighted and the ISSS & GG teams plan opportunities for international students to engage more deeply with American Culture and life on GU’s campus or in the Spokane community. Some examples of past events include pumpkin carving, gingerbread house making, volunteering, ice skating, trips to green bluff, Bloomsday and more!

Additional Benefits of programming include: 

  • Create int'l student community and a sense of belonging
  • Informal ways to gauge student's wellbeing
  • Supports ELC class requirements
  • Provide opportunities for international and American students to know and learn from each other