International Students Organization Welcomes New Board, Unveils 2026-27 Programs

The International Students Organization at the U of A has announced its executive board for the 2026-27 academic year. The eight-member board brings together undergraduate, master's and doctoral students from fields including food science, human nutrition, physics, operations management and communication. The newly elected board members are as follows:

• Samuel Selorm Attu, a Ph.D. student in human nutrition, will serve as the 2026-27 president.
• Jeehye Seo, a master's student in food science, will serve as the vice president.
• Adalton Alves Ramalho, a master's student in operations management, will serve as the treasurer.
• Tiara Williams, an undergraduate student in communication, will serve as the secretary.
• C. Kafui Kwamikorkor, a Ph.D. student in food science, will serve as the public relations officer.
• Opeyemi Latona, a Ph.D. student in physics, will serve as an event coordinator.
• Keith Elektra Santos, a Ph.D. student in food science, will serve as an event coordinator.
• Evans Ameyaw Owusu, a Ph.D. student in food science, will serve as the judicial and electoral commissioner.

The new board has begun its duties with a shared goal: to help every international student at the U of A feel informed, connected and at home in Fayetteville.

"International students bring the world to this campus, and we want them to leave with more than a degree," Attu said. "This year, our focus is on giving students practical support for their careers and their lives here, while creating spaces where friendships form across cultures, majors and borders."

Programs for 2026-27

The board's plans for the year center on three priorities: professional growth, cultural exchange and community building.

Career and Immigration Information Session. ISO will host a virtual information session on career pathways and immigration questions that matter to international students. Topics will include internships, employment authorization and planning for life after graduation. The session is being organized in collaboration with campus partners. 

Bazaar 2026. ISO's signature cultural celebration returns during International Education Week, Nov. 16-20. The Bazaar will showcase the food, music, dress and traditions of the many countries represented at the U of A. Students, faculty, staff and members of the Fayetteville community are all invited to attend.

Border States Friendship Congress and Cup. ISO is developing a new pilot event with international student organizations at universities in neighboring states. The event would pair a networking and education congress with a friendly soccer match, giving students opportunities to build academic, professional and personal connections beyond Arkansas.

Weekly Pickup Sports. The board is also planning casual Friday soccer and pickup games. They would be open to all students as a relaxed way to stay active, unwind and meet new people.

Additional cultural celebrations, workshops and social events will be announced throughout the year on ISO's official channels.

"Our board reflects the diversity of the students we serve," Attu added. "We are excited to work together and with our campus partners to make this a memorable year for the international community at the U of A."

For more information on how to get involved with ISO or to learn more about upcoming initiatives, contact the board at iso@uark.edu. Students interested in volunteering for Bazaar 2026 or helping plan ISO events are especially encouraged to reach out.