Celebrating International Community

Wednesday 2 March 2005

International House is celebrating 15 years of providing high quality accommodation for Australian and international students studying at the University of Newcastle.

Head of College, Kylie Shaw says International House, on the University's Callaghan Campus, was established through the University and the community working together with the aim of furthering cross cultural understanding.

"The idea of an International House at the University of Newcastle was first conceived by a group of international students and the concept grew in the minds of visionary members of the Newcastle community," says Kylie.

"Many organisations and individuals donated money to establish International House including Convocation, Friends of the University and Rotary clubs from around NSW."

"From small beginnings we are proud to welcome 222 students from over 25 different countries to International House in 2005."

"By living, studying and socialising together, students from widely differing cultures come to know and appreciate diverse backgrounds and values," says Kylie.

The vision of International House is to be recognised as a vibrant and diverse international community both locally and globally. This is achieved through students working with the community, visiting local schools and volunteering at the Jesmond Neighborhood Centre.

The 15th Anniversary of International House will be celebrated at the Commencement Dinner this Friday, which will provide an opportunity to reflect on the achievements over the last 15 years and celebrate the diversity of the University's international family.

Photo opportunity:
What: 15th Anniversary International House Commencement Dinner - Chancellor, Professor Trevor Waring will give the Occasional Address.
Where: International House Dining Room, Callaghan Campus.
When: 7pm, Friday, 4 March 2005.

For media interviews contact: International House Head of College, Kylie Shaw on (02) 4924 1451.