CVIP

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS FOR
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

12C International Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824

Telephone: (517) 353-1735; Fax: (517) 355-4657; E-mail: cvip@msu.edu

FALL 2004 NEWSLETTER

Fall 2004

THE PRESIDENT’S CORNER

As the new president of CVIP, I would like to give several introductory remarks.

I first heard about CVIP in 1989 after my husband and I moved here from California, so he could teach engineering courses at MSU. Since I had enjoyed international friends for more than ten years, I was very pleased to find CVIP!

In 1990 I started a masters degree in Chinese history at MSU. During that time I helped with the CVIP Newsletter and with Global Festival publicity. After daughter Renee came in 1995, I wanted to focus my energies on her and turning my thesis into a book. The CVIP board gave me a wonderful shower and wished me well in my new adventures.

In 2002, with Renee in school and the ten-year (!) book project, "Patriots" or "Traitors": A History of American Trained Chinese Students, almost published, I decided to reenter CVIP. It was good to be back on the board, among some friendly, familiar faces and some new faces, too.

I appreciate working with Peter Briggs, the director of MSU’s Office of International Students and Scholars. Since his office is still busy with SEVIS, the government’s computerized Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, he appreciates all of the work that CVIP members do in welcoming students to our community.

As I saw the programs come to life this fall, I thank each of you for serving the international students and scholars at MSU. Here are just a few highlights:

* Transportation Committee people met incoming students at the airport and went the extra mile to help them settle in.

* International spouses from a wider variety of countries are enjoying crafts this fall with Every Tuesday.

* Coffee Partner hosts had lively conversations with ESL students at the recent home visits.

* Some are busy working on the Global Festival. Others will help on the day of the Festival - November 21.

* The Speaker’s Bureau already has filled several requests for speakers from schools this fall.

Do you know a newcomer who is eager to make friends in the community? Has your own life changed, so that you can play a more active role in CVIP? We always need new volunteers. Please call Lillian Kumata (351-6046) or Joan Otto (203-6984) on the CVIP Membership Committee.

And please don’t forget the Global Festival. Invite a friend to come and enjoy the day "traveling around the world". Bring a child or two and expand their sights and sounds and tastes!

Thank you for your interest and involvement.

Stacey Bieler, CVIP President