From classroom stories in local libraries to policy discussions at the heart of campus, International Education Week (IEW) at UW–Madison was a celebration of the Wisconsin Idea without borders. With more than 20 events spanning academic departments, student services, and public venues, the week highlighted how international education strengthens our broader Madison community, connects local families to world cultures, and expands opportunities for Badgers everywhere.
Here are a few highlights from a memorable week of global learning and community connection:
Engaging Our Community & Future Badgers
The week kicked off with local outreach and a warm welcome for prospective international students:
Children’s International Story Hour: IEW reached our younger neighbors at Pinney Library, where learners explored Chineseculture, practiced chopstick skills through inventive games, and listened to a reading of Paper Son: The Inspiring Story of Tyrus Wong, Immigrant and Artist, led by UW–Madison senior Tony Jing.- Welcoming global Badgers: UW–Madison Admissions featured International Student Services (ISS) on social media, spotlighting how International Student Services ensures international students find their community from day one.
Study Abroad & Language Opportunities
Campus was filled with students exploring how to make global experience part of their Badger journey:
- High turnout at the Study Abroad Fair: Tuesday’s Study Abroad Fair at Gordon Dining & Event Center brought out incredible student attendance. We were especially honored to welcome members of the International Division Board of Visitors, who joined us to see firsthand the enthusiasm Badgers have for world learning.
- Accelerating language learning: The Wisconsin Intensive Summer Language Institutes (WISLI) launched their application for next summer’s 8-week intensive online programs, encouraging learners from all backgrounds to gain a full year of progress in one of 30+ less commonly taught languages.
- Philanthropy in action: During Fill the Hill, the community came together to raise over $5,000 for the Study Abroad Alumni and Friends Fund. These donor-funded scholarships directly break down financial barriers, opening doors for students who might otherwise never have the opportunity to study, research, or intern abroad.
Campus Dialogue & International Services
IEW provided space for intellectual engagement and reflection on global citizenship:
- Spotlighting the Peace Corps: A featured story celebrated UW–Madison’s legacy as one of the nation’s top volunteer-producing universities. Since 1961, over 3,300 alumni have served in the Peace Corps. The campus feature highlighted six alumni currently serving worldwide—from teaching English in Morocco to guiding community development in Peru—embodying the Wisconsin Idea on a global scale.
- Supporting our international community: International Faculty & Staff Services (IFSS) hosted a timely panel, The Only Constant is Change: Immigration Updates and Their Impacts at the University. Featuring voices from international faculty, students, and campus leadership, the session offered perspective on navigating evolving policies.
In addition to our flagship events, the week featured dozens of lectures, research roundtables, and info sessions on internship programs and study abroad opportunities.
To wrap up a busy week, International Student Services joined the UW Homecoming Parade, celebrating side-by-side with the broader Badger community and bringing IEW 2026 to a fun and festive close.
Thank you to all the campus partners, faculty, staff, and students who made International Education Week 2026 a resounding success!
Story by Kayla Daum