Welcome to the 26th Annual International Education Week (IEW) at Cal Poly Humboldt!
This week-long, internationally recognized, and completely free event, is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education. At Humboldt, we celebrate with over 30 presentations and events, including a dynamic keynote speaker, hands-on workshops, and global performances that connect our community to the broader world.
From learning how to study, work, or live abroad, to exploring Peace Corps opportunities, international volunteering, or careers with the U.S. State Department, IEW opens doors to new perspectives and life-changing experiences.
International Education Week 2023 Library Display Case
Attend IEW and receive academic credit!
Join us in expanding your horizons, building global connections, and celebrating international education.
Keynote Speaker
Nelson Cronyn
Nelson grew up in Borrego Springs, California, within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. His diverse career path included roles as a farmer, carpenter, astrophysics technician, airport manager, bouncer, rodent researcher, whitewater rafting guide, and Congressional aide.
In 1985, he joined the Peace Corps as an Agricultural Extension Agent in Niger, which ignited a passion for international work. Over his career, Nelson has served as Peace Corps Country Director in six African nations and worked in technical, research, consulting, and leadership roles with organizations like Catholic Relief Services, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, the University of Arizona, and Southwest Conservation Corps. He speaks Hausa, French, some Tomasheq and Kiswahili, and is relearning Spanish.
Nelson holds degrees from UC Davis, Utah State University, and the University of Arizona, with graduate studies focusing on rangeland economics in Utah and climate change impacts in Niger. He and his wife, Judith Keller, divide their time between Arizona and Utah, sharing a love for the outdoors with their three adult sons and their dog. Nelson enjoys family time, growing food, baking sourdough, biking, hiking, and volunteering with Southern Arizona Search and Rescue.
Featured Speaker John Berry
John Berry has designed and implemented projects supporting economic growth and financial inclusion for underserved populations for more than three decades. He has worked with USAID, the UN, Peace Corps, NGOs, and consulting firms. His experience includes work in more than 65 countries including long-term positions in Swaziland, Rwanda, Tunisia, and Niger. Mr. Berry holds a master’s degree in development economics from Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies and bachelor's degree from American University in international studies and French. He is an author and editor of “Genocide in Rwanda: A Collective Memory” and numerous technical publications.
International Education Week Sponsors
