|
Dear ICIS Colleagues,
During the holiday season taking place around the world in December and January, we find ourselves reflecting on the passing year marked by the global pandemic. The turbulent 2020 has brought many human losses, unique challenges, and valuable experiences. It also offered many opportunities for virtual connections and collaborations within the ICIS and TESOL International community.
ICIS leadership is grateful that so many in our community value the critical role that intercultural communication and intercultural justice play in language teaching and learning, especially during this pandemic. I would like to use this opportunity to share the ICIS highlights of 2020 with you:
- Conducting two webinars with 65+ participants at each
- Launching and hosting ICIS monthly social (coffee) hour. Discussion topics included intercultural listening and intercultural competence, engaging diverse students in virtual environments, peacebuilding and language education, anti-racism and language education, and solstice in cultures around the world
- Providing opportunities to engage in Story Stitch discussions and sharing stories of identity, culture, and immigration
- Publishing three ICIS Newsletters filled with enriching content
- Staying active on social media (LinkedIn and Facebook ICIS group)
- Strengthening ICIS leadership team.
If you were part of our activities in 2020, the leadership team appreciates your engagement and your dedication to our purpose and TESOL profession.
We also would like to invite you to work more closely with the leadership team of ICIS. If you are interested in joining the leadership team as a member-at-large, please let us know!
ICIS looks forward to continuing working with you and continuing building even a stronger ICIS community in 2021.
On behalf of the ICIS team, I wish you all the best in 2021! Most importantly, good health and strength and persistence as we continue building a more just and peaceful world.
Roxanna Senyshyn (ICIS Co-Chair 2020-2021) | 
