International Connections Lounge Dedication Set For Wednesday Afternoon

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International students point out their countries’ flags in the International Connections Lounge

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas will formally dedicate the International Connections Lounge in the Arkansas Union during a ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 2 in the Arkansas Union.

The International Connections Lounge, previously known as the Connections Lounge, is the space that connects the west and east sides of the Arkansas Union, with patios on the north and south sides. The area was renovated over spring break and is now filled with the color of 193 national flags hanging from the ceiling, representing the countries recognized by the United Nations.

 “We chose to hang United Nations flags to represent international awareness,” said Lynne Williams, director of the Arkansas Union. “We had conversations with several other institutions about their flag-hanging policies, as well as on-going discussions with the international students and scholars office. We felt using the flags of the U.N. countries was the most politically correct and internationally representative set of flags for display,” Williams said.

Nearly 1,200 international students attend the University of Arkansas, split nearly evenly between undergraduate and graduate students.

The lounge also features a large painting by local artist Jason Jones, a map of the continents of the world reconfigured into the shape of a Razorback. New tile, replacing the old brick floor, also adds to the beauty of the space.

The dedication will include remarks by Chancellor G. David Gearhart, as well as Danny Pugh, vice provost for student affairs and dean of students. Students representing different countries will also be in attendance. Light refreshments will be served.