Members of campus will celebrate International Women's Day today, Friday, March 7. This celebration recognizes women who strive to make positive changes in our world, in our country and in our community.

The day is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and contributions women have made and continue to make in our global society. The day also brings awareness to the gaps in women's rights across the world.

The community is invited to join in all the day's scheduled festivities. The celebration program will take place from 4-5 p.m. in the Union International Connections Lounge, followed by refreshments to allow you to mingle and meet others attending. Our keynote speaker is Pabi Das, a doctoral student in curriculum and instruction in science education, from the country of Bhutan.

The event will feature inspirational speakers, performances and a global fashion show. The full itinerary for the day is as follows:

• 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. — Women of the World Photo Gallery at the Union Connections Lounge. Portraits of U of A, international and US women on display. This display will also be highlighted in the Anne Kittrell Gallery from March 17 to April 7.
• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Bloom and Bond: a Floral Experience Flower — create, decorate, connect. Multicultural Center, Union 404.
• 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. — Thank You Note Booth — Note cards will be provided for you to thank faculty, staff, family and friends who inspire you. The booth will be found in the Union International Connections Lounge.
• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — International Women's Day Self Defense Class in ARKU 201: Registration required! Food to follow. Sign up here.
• 4-5:30 p.m. — International Women's Day Celebration Program — Speakers, performances and a global fashion show will be the highlights of the International Women's Day program.

Below is an approximate schedule for the International Women's Day Celebration Program:

• 4-4:30 p.m. Program featuring performances and a keynote speaker
• 4:30-5 p.m. True Beauty Fashion Show
• 5-5:30 p.m.  Refreshments & Mingling

The U of A's International Women's Day celebration is sponsored by the Office of International Students and Scholars, the Multicultural Center and the registered student organization Diverse Independent Voices Experiencing University of Arkansas.