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Programs

The living experience at I-House reflects its diversity of country, culture, and thought, as well as the professional development of its Residents.

Our programs connect our residents to a lifelong network and prepare them to become the next generation of globally minded leaders.

Night of Nations, April 2024

Night of Nations, April 2023

Ice Cream Social, January 2024

Ballroom Dancing, May 2023

Language Exchange, November 2023

Ice Cream Social, January 2024

Night of Nations, April 2023

Fall Fiesta, October 2023

Spring Orientation, January 2024

Night of Nations, April 2023

Alumni Gathering, November 2023

Night of Nations, April 2023

Events at I-House

International House programs and events are designed to bring together the thought leaders of today and tomorrow. Residents gain insights from national and international policymakers and diplomats; engage in meaningful discussions with leaders and innovators in business and tech; explore social issues with filmmakers and journalists; and delve into the creative process with acclaimed musicians, actors, and artists.

Actor and Activist George Takei speaking with our former President, Calvin Sims

Distinguished Speakers

Distinguished speakers representing a wide variety of leadership styles and fields including business, government, arts, science and journalism.
Pictured: Actor and Activist George Takei speaking with former I-House President, Calvin Sims.

Sunday Suppers

The longest standing tradition at International House, Sunday Suppers are where the the I-House movement began. Our community members dress up and come together to share family-style meals as they hear from captivating visiting speakers and enjoy musical performances by talented Residents.
Pictured: Residents at a recent Sunday Supper.

Resident Round Table Discussions

Organized and led by Residents, for Residents, these forums epitomize the spirit of open dialogue at International House. Recent discussions have included the Syrian refugee crisis; the Black Lives Matter movement and the US criminal justice system; diversity in the tech industry; and other timely topics.
Pictured: Residents lead a Latin American Round Table Discussion.

Fall Fiesta

A community-wide festival of words, music and dance from around the world.
Pictured: Residents perform at International House’s 2023 Fall Fiesta.

Language Exchange Program

Residents can learn or practice a new language with native speakers, or teach their  language to other Residents, all at no cost, at their own pace, and in the comfort of the House they call home.
Pictured: Residents participating in a Language Exchange in 2015.

Salon Nights

Residents studying music at Manhattan School of Music, The Juilliard School and the Mannes School of Music collaborate and share the spotlight with talented amateurs in the House in exciting performances of classical, jazz, world, R&B, pop, and spoken word.
Pictured: A resident sings in Davis Hall during a Salon Night

Night of Nations

The biggest party of the year, this annual spring fling is filled with Resident music and dance performances, cuisine from around the world, cultural exhibits, and more.
Pictured: The flags around Davis Hall, where the All Nations Grand Salon Night is celebrated. 

Clubs and Sports

Organized and led by residents, for residents, clubs at I-House epitomize the spirit of open dialogue. This year, clubs include the Book Club, In Dance We Trust, and Global Public Square.
Residents also organize sporting events every week, including basketball, badminton, volleyball. 
Pictured: Residents play a pick-up game of basketball in the Frohlich Gymnasium.

    Distinguished Speakers

    For generations, I-House Residents have had the opportunity to hear from and engage with global leaders and influencers including:

    • Nelson Mandela, President of South Africa
    • Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady of the United States
    • Janet Yellen, Ben Bernanke, Alan Greenspan and Paul A. Volcker, Federal Reserve Chairs
    • Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of Liberia, Nobel Peace Prize winner
    • Isaac Stern, Violinist
    • Jelani Cobb, Professor and contributor to The New Yorker magazine
    • George Takei, Actor and activist
    • Dean Obeidallah, Comedian and radio host
    • Kike Arnal, Photographer, videographer and climber
    • Sheila Nevins, Author, former President of HBO Documentary Films

    Cornel West

    George Takei

    Desmond Tutu

    Nelson Mandela

    Sandra Day O’Connor

    Leontyne Price

    Betty Friedan