For the first time, a weekend dedicated to international alumni will take place on Nov. 8-9.
The event will take place alongside “Ethnos” and “Recent Grad Weekend” as a way to draw international alumni back to the university and celebrate them. The events will begin with a Luncheon on Saturday, Nov. 9. with guest speaker Dr. Carolle Ranaivoarivelo.
Ranaivoarivelo is an alumni and a native of Madagascar with a bachelor’s in communication and a master’s in intercultural communication. She later received a doctorate of education in leadership at Hardin-Simmons University and is the founder/owner of Global Cultured.
This event is planned by Veronica Whitt, international student services specialist.
“We’re so excited and honored to have Carolle joining us as our guest speaker for the International Alumni Luncheon and we can’t wait to hear her share her story with us,” Whitt said.
In addition, there will be a friendly soccer match between current international students and alumni from 2-4 p.m. For those who do not wish to play, there will be a reception held alongside the game.
After this to end the day, the Ethnos show will take place at 7 p.m.
The next day, there will be an international worship service at Chapel on the Hill comprised of former and current students with another guest speaker in Dr. John Willis, Bible professor emeritus with 46 years of teaching experience at ACU. The schedule of events will conclude with a luncheon at the Bean.
Whitt is moving towards making the event successful and is basing future repeats of this event upon how well this event is received. She is also offering volunteer opportunities and hours for any students who require them or wish to participate.
“Imagine the United Nations if it were garnered in fellowship, community, and unity, and that’s why you should be coming,” said Arnold Charles, a student intern in the office of multicultural affairs and former ISA officer.
International Students represent their country at the Homecoming Parade. (Photo by Cynthia Rangel)
