CWU To Host Second Annual IEWLD

May 10, 2004

Contact: Kari Taylor (509-963-1218/fax 509-963-1959/e-mail: taylork@cwu.edu)

ELLENSBURG, Wash.-- Central Washington University's second annual International Education and World Languages Day (IEWLD) will be held Friday, May 14, on the Ellensburg campus.

About 300 high school students and faculty from central Washington are expected to come to attend the event, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., which "brings together many people from local and state organizations to present workshops and seminars on a wide variety of topics and disciplines," according to Dr. Joshua Nelson, CWU department of foreign languages chair.

High school students and staff will attend seminars related to world languages and international cultures and history, presented by a variety of university faculty, students, staff and members of the Ellensburg community.

"This event requires the collaboration of a broad coalition of people who have spontaneously and enthusiastically volunteered their time, energy and expertise to create a day of quality programming," Nelson says. "The activities encourage students and faculty to develop interest in and sensitivity to diverse world cultures."

IEWLD is designed to illustrate CWU's commitment to preparing students for lifelong learning and a diverse and changing world through providing a rich and diverse academic, educational, and cultural experience.

CWU President Jerilyn S. McIntyre will provide welcoming remarks, followed by keynote addresses by three CWU students who will speak about their experiences with languages, diverse cultures and international travels.

Another highlight will be a mid-day presentation by "The Blue Tropics," a Caribbean music group.

While on campus, students can visit language classes, learn about internationally focused degrees at CWU, meet students from around the world, speak with current CWU students about their experiences overseas and tour campus.

IEWLD is sponsored by the CWU admissions office, alumni relations office, conference center, department of foreign languages, office of international studies and programs, office of the provost, student affairs and enrollment management, College of Arts and Humanities, College of Business, College of Education and Professional Studies, College of the Sciences, CWU Foundation and Ellensburg High School.

For additional information, call (509) 963-1218, or (for the hearing impaired) TDD (509) 963-2143.