Pepperdine's International Education Week

In honor of Pepperdine’s commitment to fostering global awareness and preparing students for leadership in an interconnected world, the University celebrates International Education Week—a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education.

A collaborative initiative between the Seaver College International Studies and Languages Division, the Office of International Student Services, International Programs, and the Office for Community Belonging, International Education Week at Pepperdine highlights the personal and communal benefits of international education and cultural exchange.

Through a series of engaging events and discussions, Pepperdine's International Education Week shines a light on the value of cross-cultural understanding and global awareness to enrich our community, enhance academic excellence, and prepare our students to thrive in a global environment. These opportunities highlight international perspectives and broaden our community's understanding of global citizenship.

2025 Events and Activities

International Chapel

**November 17, 2025 | 10 AM | Stauffer Chapel**

Join the Seaver College community in worshipping the Lord and celebrating his diverse, multicultural creation. At International Chapel, students and faculty from a variety of languages will lead us in prayer, scripture readings and song. All are welcome!

Film Screening: Manzar, Diverted: When Water Becomes Dust, Featuring Director Ann Kaneko

**November 17, 2025 | 5 PM | Payson Library, Surfboard Room**
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Film Screening: Manzar, Diverted: When Water Becomes Dust, Featuring Director Ann Kaneko

Attend a screening of the documentary, Manzar, Diverted: When Water Becomes Dust, and enjoy a conversation with the Emmy Award winning director and producer of the project, Ann Kaneko.

Synopsis: “At the foot of the majestic snow-capped Sierras, Manzanar, the WWII concentration camp, becomes the confluence for memories of Payahuunadü, the now-parched “land of flowing water.” Intergenerational women from Native American, Japanese American and rancher communities form an unexpected alliance to defend their land and water from Los Angeles.”

ISL Keynote Speaker: Dr. Melissa Fitch, University of Arizona —“Building Bridges between Asia and Latin America in the Digital Age”

**November 18, 2025 | 4PM | Payson Library, Surfboard Room**
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ISL Keynote Speaker: Dr. Melissa Fitch, University of Arizona —“Building Bridges between Asia and Latin America in the Digital Age”

Why is the film KPop Demon Hunters so popular in Latin America? Why are tacos so popular in Korea? Dr. Melissa Fitch, a University of Arizona distinguished professor who specializes in Hispanic Studies, will set out to answer these questions and more in her lecture titled, “Building Bridges between Asia and Latin America in the Digital Age.” The author of three books focused on global identity, art, and culture, Fitch will offer her expert opinion on how new media connects seemingly disparate parts of our world.

Latin Dance Night: Bachata + Tacos

**November 19, 2025 | 5 PM | Gulls Way Patio**

Learn how to dance the Bachata, while enjoying tacos with friends at Sigma Delta Phi’s Latin Dance Night! No prior experience necessary. Come with your party pants on and get ready to enjoy delicious bites, lots of laughs and unbeatable ocean views!

CHADO: The Japanese Tea Ceremony

**November 20, 2025 | 30 minute sessions running from 11:30 AM - 1:00PM | Payson Library, Surfboard Room**

Pepperdine Libraries and Seaver College’s International Studies and Languages Division is hosting a demonstration of chado, a traditional tea ceremony, led by tea master Yuko Uyesugi and students of the Urasenke School of chado. After brief remarks by Mike Sugimoto, professor of Asian Studies, attendees will be invited to observe and participate in the ceremony.

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