Intercultural Events
Over the coming term, InterCultural Student Initiatives will hold events for the College community.
Women, History & Culture Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future
This March, in celebration of Women's History Month, we honor the visionary women who have transformed communities, industries, and movements — and we spotlight the leaders who are shaping a more sustainable and equitable future today.
Throughout the month, we will celebrate the powerful intersection of history, culture, and forward-thinking leadership — recognizing that sustainability is not only environmental, but social, economic, and cultural. By amplifying women’s voices and innovations, we reaffirm that inclusive leadership is essential to building a future where people and the planet thrive together.
*Check calendar weekly. Events and locations are subject to change pending conditions. Calendar will be adjusted as needed. Refer to the Events Calendar.
Photo Exhibit Leading the Change: Shaping a Sustainable Future
Explore the history and ongoing impact of women as drivers of social, economic, and political change. This display honors their legacy and invites you to share your thoughts via our QR code expression board. Enrolled students can submit a three-page essay for a chance to win a $600 ISI Scholarship Award through our expression competition.
For further discussion regarding the displayed images, contact David Swope swoped28@cod.edu.
Runs until April 3 in the SRC Corridor, directly across from the Bookstore.
2026 Expressions Competition
Submittals Wednesday, April 8, 2026
For Enrolled COD Students Only
Guided by a quote from a notable women in the field of science, technology, engineering, arts or mathematics (Business), COD students are invited to submit an essay, a story, a piece of art, a music, video, a poem, a live verbal presentation or any other form of expression you choose. The top three submittals will be awarded a minimum of $600 and their selections will be featured on the InterCultural Student Initiatives web page.
Criteria:
Your expression will be evaluated based on its authentic impact and on how well it
expresses your chosen content. The judging will not be objective – impress us with
your knowledge, insight and ability to communicate ideas and feelings.
Submissions:
Submit your original work in any format (i.e. – Word document, MP3 file, YouTube video/link,
photography, artwork in any medium, etc.). Include your name, student ID, email,
and your chosen content (with author / artist cited), if it is not evident in your
submission.
Submissions will be received at the offices of InterCultural Student Initiatives in person SSC 1100 or via email at intercultual@cod.edu with the subject line “Expressions Contest _ (First and last name with student ID)
Subject Line Example: Expressions Contest_ Jane Doe 123456
Review and Award of Prizes:
A panel will review and select the top THREE submissions who will each receive a minimum award of $600 posted to your COD account.
Deadline for all submissions: Wednesday, April 8 by 5 p.m. CST
**All written work must be substantive. No Ai submissions. Essays must be two pages minimum. Poems must be at least one full page, minimum. Submittals will be time stamped and will not be accepted if submitted after 5 p.m. CST on Wednesday, April 8**
Coffee and Conversations: Supporting Students Together
Join us in The Hub (SSC 1138) for an informal open space session to explore ways to support students and one another. Enjoy coffee and cookies while connecting with colleagues, sharing experiences, and gaining insights into student-focused support strategies. All COD employees are welcome monthly.
Open Space: Reflect, Process and Discuss
Join us in The Hub (SSC 1138) for a supportive, open discussion, where students can come together to share thoughts, listen and connect. This space is for COD students to discuss, reflect and support each other as a campus community. All students are welcome every Tuesday from noon to 1.
InterCultural Student Initiative Events
InterCultural Student Initiatives (ISI).
Manager, InterCultural Student Initiatives and Peer Mentoring
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone
Email
Manager, Intercultural Student Initiatives and Student Support Hablo español
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone
Email
Contact Information
Student Service Center (SSC), Room 1111.
Visit COD InterCultural Student Initiatives on InstagramDavid A. Swope Sr.
(630) 942-2565
swoped28@cod.edu
Elizabeth Gómez de la Casa
(630) 942-3146
gomezdelacasae@cod.edu
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