The International Employee Resource Group at the U of A is partnering with the Graduate School and International Education to host an appreciation luncheon from noon-1:30 p.m. Nov. 20 as part of International Education Week. The lunch will take place in the Graduate Lounge of Gearhart Hall (room 206), and those interested in attending should RSVP by Nov. 13.

The event will celebrate international faculty and staff at the U of A and their contributions to enrich campus and bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the community. All international faculty and staff are invited to attend.

"The International Employee Resource Group ERG is honored to host an appreciation luncheon for our international faculty and staff as part of the International Education Week," said Dr. Adnan Alrubaye, assistant professor of poultry science and the president of the group. "An appreciation luncheon for our international faculty and staff is not just a meal, but a heartfelt acknowledgment of their invaluable contributions. Their diverse perspectives and dedication are the cornerstone of our university's global success, and this gathering is a testament to the immense value they bring to the University of Arkansas."

The International Employee Resource Group was established in 2022 in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Compliance to provide community and enhance belonging for international faculty and staff. Reporting to Dr. Angela Mosley-Monts, director of belonging and engagement, the group is the second-largest employee resource group on campus.

"The International Employee Resource Group is committed to building a global community at the University of Arkansas that champions inclusivity, enhances awareness and fosters a sense of belonging," Mosley-Monts said. "I am incredibly thankful for the ongoing support from Adnan Alrubaye and Dr. Rocio Paez Ritter. As chair and co-chair, they continuously strive to create a culture for IERG faculty, staff and students, where a wide range of perspectives are embraced, and every individual feels valued and connected."

"We are thrilled to partner with our International Employee Resource Group to recognize the faculty and staff that bring the world to Arkansas," said Dr. Ed Pohl, dean of the Graduate School and International Education. "Our international employees are critical to our university, and ensuring they can find community and belonging here at the U of A is paramount to their success. I look forward to celebrating their many contributions to our campus."  

For more information, contact Alrubaye at aakhalaf@uark.edu. Those interested in signing up for the International Employee Resource Group can do so by filling out an online form.