ISSS Programs & Trainings
This calendar includes all ISSS campus events, programs, and trainings. Opportunities are open to all students, scholars, faculty, and staff.
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Wednesday, January 7, 2026
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2:00 - 4:00 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S. Fourth St. Champaign, IL 61820) - Classroom 1000Discover the art of American quilting through stories, patterns, and community traditions. This workshop includes a trunk show of traditional and modern quilts and a hands-on activity where you’ll create your own fabric star ornament—no sewing experience needed. Free and open to all, with snacks provided.
Thursday, January 8, 2026
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All DayIn-person on University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana campusFINAL APPLICATION DEADLINE IS TODAY! Are you passionate about sharing your culture and connecting with others? Join the Global Educators Program! This program is perfect for anyone who wants to make a meaningful impact on campus by representing their home country. If you're enthusiastic about intercultural exchange and open to building new skills, apply now!
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
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12:00 - 3:00 pmUniversity YMCA - Murphy Lounge (1001 S Wright St, Champaign, IL 61820)Join us for fun activities and get connected with other students and find your home away from home. In this session we will offer a variety of crafts to work on including crochet and calligraphy. We will provide materials and will be able to teach you the basics of each. Lunch is provided on a first come, first serve basis.
Thursday, January 15, 2026
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1:00 - 4:00 pmMain Library - Orange Room (1408 W. Gregory Drive, Champaign IL)Come enjoy some creative time in the library! We’ll have board games, puzzles, and supplies to make your own zine (pronounced ZEEN)! Zines are DIY self-published works that can be about anything you want. Stop by to see some example zines, learn a zine fold, and make your own with free materials supplied by the library. All are welcome! Free and open to all with snacks pro
Thursday, January 22, 2026
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12:30 pm 2:00 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S 4th St, Champaign, IL 61820) Starlight Room and Upper LobbyBegin the semester with a warm and engaging conversation about how people across the globe welcome the winter season. We will explore holidays, New Year traditions, and other seasonal celebrations that bring communities together. Join us to share your own customs and learn how others find joy and meaning during this time of year. Free and open to all.
Monday, February 9, 2026
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12:00 - 1:00 pmJoin us for a special Names Training focused on Brazilian names! This interactive session will explore the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that shape Brazilian names. You’ll gain insight into name structures, pronunciation tips, and cultural context—guided by our presenter with lived experience and knowledge of Brazilian naming customs.
Thursday, February 12, 2026
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12:30 - 1:50 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S 4th St, Champaign, IL 61820) Starlight Room and Upper Lobby
With Valentine’s week approaching, this session invites you to reflect on how different cultures express affection, build friendships, and understand relationships. We will discuss traditions, expectations, and the diverse ways people form meaningful connections. A thoughtful and lighthearted way to explore global perspectives on love and friendship. Free and open to al
Thursday, March 5, 2026
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12:30 - 1:50 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S 4th St, Champaign, IL 61820) Starlight Room and Upper Lobby
Spring is a season of renewal, and cultures around the world celebrate it in vibrant, meaningful ways. Join us as we explore global spring festivals and the values they represent—hope, joy, reflection, and community. Bring your stories and discover traditions you may never have encountered before. Free and open to all.
Thursday, March 26, 2026
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12:30 1:50 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S 4th St, Champaign, IL 61820) Starlight Room and Upper Lobby
Humor is universal, yet what makes us laugh can be surprisingly different across cultures. This session takes a lighthearted look at jokes, comedic styles, playful expressions, and humorous misunderstandings. Come prepared to share a story or simply enjoy hearing how humor connects (and sometimes confuses) us. Free and open to all.
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
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6:00 - 8:00 pmLiteratures, Cultures, and Linguistics Building Atrium (707 S Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801)
Get ready to sample the flavors of the world at the 14th Annual Taste of Language! Just like sampling dishes from a diverse menu, this event offers a "menu" of languages to try. Each short session is like a flavorful bite, giving you a delicious introduction to the sounds and rhythms of languages from around the globe.
Thursday, April 16, 2026
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12:30 - 1:50 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S 4th St, Champaign, IL 61820) Starlight Room and Upper Lobby
Beauty and personal style carry unique meanings in different cultures. In this session, we will explore how people around the world express identity through clothing, color, special-occasion attire, and notions of elegance. Join us for a lively conversation that highlights creativity, tradition, and cultural expression. Free and open to all.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
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12:30 - 1:50 pmSiebel Center for Design (1208 S 4th St, Champaign, IL 61820) Starlight Room and Upper Lobby
As the semester comes to a close, this relaxing and uplifting session invites participants to reflect on the simple joys and comforting practices that bring calm during busy or stressful times. Share the activities, routines, and traditions that help you feel grounded, and learn how others find moments of peace. Free and open to all.