The latest news, programs, and events from The International Center.
If you're having trouble viewing this email, you cansee it online.
Join Us for The Center's Third Annual Loving Day Celebration
Loving Day is observed annually on June 12 to commemorate the landmark 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia, which struck down all state laws banning interracial marriage. This historic ruling not only affirmed the fundamental right to marry but also marked a defining victory for civil rights in America. Loving Day stands as a celebration of love, resilience, and equality, honoring the Lovings’ courageous stand for justice.
The International Center is proud to host its third annual Loving Day celebration, presented in partnership with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Indianapolis Colts, and former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard. Guests will enjoy compelling stories from interracial couples, insights from a legal scholar on the significance of the ruling, works from local artists, a catered lunch, and an opportunity to participate in vow renewals. Being married or in an interracial relationship is not required to attend; all are welcome to take part in this day of reflection, community, and celebration.
We’re thrilled to have this talented group join our team as they bring fresh perspectives and a shared passion for fostering global connections right here in Indiana.
The International Center Joins Colts First Business Development Delegation
Recently, Colin Renk, Vice President of Client and Partner Services, joined the Indianapolis Colts on their first business development trip to Austria and Switzerland following the team’s NFL international marketing rights expansion into the DACH region. Over two weeks, the delegation connected with sports organizations, business leaders, and city officials across Vienna, Graz, Zurich, and Basel to strengthen international relationships and explore future collaborations. A special thank you to all the partners and collaborators who helped make this exchange possible!
ContactColin Renkfor more information on The Center's delegation support services.
With Gratitude: Celebrating Audrey Hughey’s Retirement
The International Center extends our heartfelt gratitude to Audrey Hughey, Executive Assistant and Administrative Liaison to the Board, as she celebrates her retirement. Over the last seven years, Audrey has been a steady and valued presence, supporting our team, leadership, and Board with dedication, care, and professionalism. Her service has helped strengthen the work of The Center in countless meaningful ways, and her kindness, reliability, and commitment will be deeply missed. We thank Audrey for her many years of service and wish her all the very best as she begins her well-deserved retirement.
Welcome New Executive Assistant & Administrative Liaison to the Board, Erin Williams!
Erin Williamsjoins The International Center with a strong background in hospitality, event coordination, and organizational support. She holds a B.S. in Travel, Hospitality & Event Management from International Business College. With experience at Hyatt Regency, Franciscan Health, and Delta Hotels by Marriott, Erin brings strong skills in scheduling, records management, stakeholder communication, and creating welcoming experiences for diverse communities. Welcome, Erin!
Welcome New Relocation Specialists, Lorian and Liz!
The International Center recently welcomed two new Relocations Specialists, Lorian Stoddart and Liz Riedford, to assist ourrelocationsclients in the field as they adjust to life in Indiana.
Lorian Stoddart joins The International Center with a B.S. in Graphic Design and a minor in Marketing from Indiana State University, and she brings a strong passion for people, cultural diversity, and service. As a first-generation American who has lived across the USA, Jamaica, and Mexico, Lorian understands the importance of helping individuals and families feel welcomed and connected in a new environment.
Liz Riedford joins The International Center with a B.S. in Communication Studies from the University of Southern Indiana, an M.S. in Global Studies and International Relations from Northeastern University, and a Doctorate of Law and Policy from Northeastern University. Having lived in the United States, Ghana, and Ireland, she understands the courage it takes to build a life in a new place. Liz is passionate about helping individuals and families feel supported, welcomed, and reassured as they transition into the Indianapolis community.
Welcome, Lorian and Liz!
Indianapolis Opens a New Cultural Bridge to Puerto Rico
The launch of a new nonstop route between Indianapolis and Puerto Rico is more than a travel milestone. It represents a growing cultural connection between Indiana and the Caribbean. In celebration of this new destination, Indianapolis International Airport is featuring “Los Colores de Nuestra Isla / The Colors of Our Island,” an art installation by ¡WEPArt! Colectivo, a multidisciplinary collective of Puerto Rican artists based in Indiana. The exhibition highlights themes of identity, migration, memory, and cultural tradition while offering travelers a vibrant introduction to Puerto Rican creativity and heritage. Read more about how Indianapolis is opening a new cultural bridge to Puerto Rico below.
The International Center Welcomes Worldwide Soybean Oil Masters Program
On behalf of the Indiana Soybean Alliance, The International Center welcomed a distinguished group of international visitors participating in the Worldwide Soybean Oil Masters Program. Delegates representing Chile, China, Colombia, France, Hong Kong SAR China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam took part in professional exchanges and cultural experiences throughout Indiana focused on agriculture, trade, and global partnership.
The International Center’s Office of Protocol supported the program by inviting community partners to connect with delegates during an Indiana Fever basketball game, as well as a lunch and tour at Victory Field. These informal opportunities for engagement helped foster meaningful conversations, strengthen international relationships, and showcase Hoosier hospitality.
To learn more about Indiana’s tradition of Hoosier hospitality and The International Center’s Office of Protocol, read this IndyStar feature on Chief of Protocol Peter Kirkwood. For inquiries about protocol services, including international flag displays, organizations are encouraged to contact him to learn more about availability and partnership opportunities.
Upcoming Virtual Festival Fund Information Session
The International Center will host a virtual Festival Fund information session on June 18 at 1:00 p.m. The session will bring together community stakeholders, committee members, and past grantees to share how the Festival Fund makes funding decisions and what types of cultural events it hopes to support. Established in 2011, the Festival Fund supports organizations in the greater Indianapolis area whose events celebrate cultural diversity, foster cross-cultural understanding, and highlight the many nationalities represented in Central Indiana. The fund empowers community organizations through awards ranging from $250 to $2,000.
The International Center Supports Celebration of Black Graduates with Flag Display
Since 2016, The International Center has proudly supported the Indiana University Indianapolis Black Faculty and Staff Council Celebration of Black Graduates commencement ceremony through a special display featuring the flags of every African nation. The display serves as a vibrant symbol of heritage, achievement, and global connection while honoring the diverse backgrounds and accomplishments of graduating students. Event Chair Sonia Ninon shared, “The flag display beautifully elevated the décor and contributed to a warm, welcoming environment for our graduates and their families. In a season where cultural awareness and international connections may not always be at the forefront, it was especially meaningful to have the opportunity to showcase different flags. It added a visually striking and enriching element to the celebration.”
Through its international flag program, The International Center supports cultural celebrations, academic ceremonies, conferences, and community events across Indiana. Organizations interested in incorporating international flags into their own programs are encouraged to contact Chief of Protocol Peter Kirkwood to learn more about flag display availability and partnership opportunities.
Photo credit: Rodahina Pasteurin
Fall 2026 Internship Applications Open Now
Applications for The International Center’s Fall 2026 Internship Program are open now! We invite students and recent graduates who are passionate about international affairs, leadership development, and nonprofit work to apply. Please share this opportunity with anyone who might be interested.
Newfields’ New Exhibition Highlights Global Contemporary Art
Newfields’ newest exhibition, Bold: New Voices in Contemporary Art, features thirteen works from the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s contemporary art collection, highlighting the museum’s growing and globally relevant approach to contemporary art. The exhibition includes newly acquired works by contemporary African artists Wole Lagunju, Turiya Magadlela, and Kimathi Mafafo, alongside collection favorites by Vaughn Spann, Carlos Rolón, and Samuel Levi Jones.
Through textiles, found objects, digital imagery, handmade materials, and unconventional compositions, the artists featured in Bold push the boundaries of traditional painting and invite guests to experience contemporary art in new and dynamic ways. With nine works on view for the first time, the exhibition celebrates Newfields’ evolving commitment to a global, inclusive, and relevant artistic future.
June is Immigrant Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the histories, cultures, stories, and contributions of immigrants across the United States. Observed throughout June, it offers an opportunity to honor the many individuals and families who have shaped communities through their traditions, languages, talents, work, and lived experiences. Learn more about Immigrant Heritage Month below.
The International Center is a catalyst toinform, convene,and connectpublic, private and civic global objectives in Indiana.
Inform
The International Center served as an event sponsor and organizational partner for the Indiana District Export Council’s Doing Business with Western Europe Conference at the University of Southern Indiana. The conference focused on export opportunities in Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Ireland, offering market insights, trade guidance, and resources for Indiana companies expanding internationally.
Colin Renk, Vice President of Client Relations and Partner Services, moderated a session with representatives from the Consuls General offices and highlighted The International Center’s Economic Development and Global Engagement services.
Convene
The International Center’s development team attended the final luncheon of the 2025–2026 season with The Economic Club of Indiana. We were delighted to share the experience with Chef Monica Douglas, Head Chef and Owner of Ummi's Table, A Culinary Experience; Julianne Miller, Community Engagement Manager at NewFields; Bruce Garrison, Chief Executive Officer at Patchwork Global; and Rochelle M. J., Chief Executive Officer of Jerry Consulting Group LLC.
Thank you to Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, former CEO of Feeding America, for sharing inspiring reflections during her panel and for her extraordinary work with the organization. The International Center is grateful to everyone who made this season so engaging and impactful.
Connect
The International Center team gathered at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center, home of the Indianapolis Colts, for a memorable staff retreat.
The day included a welcome from Ben Guerrero, Colts Director of International, a special Colts history tour led by Jake Sheff, Curator and Director of Colts Archives, and team updates on our marketing audit, cybersecurity best practices, and CRM training. Special thanks to Stephanie Pemberton, Colts Senior VP of Marketing, and Trey Mock, Colts Creative Director of Mascot Program, for stopping by, and to everyone who helped make the retreat meaningful and engaging.
Upcoming International Events
Is your event missing from our calendar?Submit it!
Power Partner Conversations: Keeping Communities Healthy
.png)
.png)
.jpeg)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.jpeg)
.png)
