
Intercultural Learning Initiative
The Office of International Relations' Intercultural Learning Initiative aims to advance the university’s global ambitions by providing Northwestern staff members with the crucial tools and skills they need to thrive in a culturally diverse workplace.
Workshops
Facilitated Intercultural Learning Opportunities
Our intercultural workshops are open to all Northwestern employees. The goal of these opportunities is to provide practical information to increase intercultural sensitivity and effective communication. Our workshops provide interactive sessions and ongoing support resources.


Assessing Global Readiness
Staff members who have participated in the "Navigating Cultures" workshop series have the option to continue their intercultural learning and participate in a 60-min "Global Readiness Assessment" small group session, debriefing results of the Global Competence Aptitude Assessment (GCAA)®. This assessment helps individuals understand their strengths and gaps, and provides advice and resources on how to continue to grow and improve.One World \ One Northwestern Affinity Group
Intercultural Competency and Global Inclusion
This affinity group brings together Northwestern staff members interested in intercultural learning. We organize quarterly topical events and provide a space for creative problem-solving and sharing of best practices. All Northwestern staff members are welcome!
Sign-Up HereThere are several other affinity groups as part of the One World \ One Northwestern Initiative - take a look!
News and Events
Events
Navigating Cultures Winter Quarter Workshop Deadline
All day
The deadline to sign up for the Winter Quarter "Navigating Cultures in the Global Workplace" Workshop is Friday, January...
Support and Customized Programs for Northwestern Units
We offer resources, support, and customized programs for Northwestern units across campus. Below are a few examples of the types of programs and events we have organized in the past.
Customized Trainings and Webinars:
- Faculty Training: Engaging and Supporting International Students
(School for Professional Studies) - Staff Retreat Session: Cultural Considerations in Global Alumni Engagement
(Northwestern Alumni Association) - Ireland 101 Workshop with Irish Consul General Kevin Byrne and SESP Professor Jim Spillane
(Alumni Relations and Development and Athletics Department)
Customized Workshops (Fees apply):
- 5-week Workshop Series on Navigating Cultures in the Global Workplace
(Northwestern Alumni Association) - 3-week Workshop Series on Navigating Cultures in the Global Workplace
(McCormick School of Engineering - Office of Professional Education) - Full-Day Workshop on Navigating Cultures in the Global Workplace
(Feinberg School of Medicine - All of Us Research Program)
Contact
The Intercultural Learning Initiative was established by Jennifer Gerrard and Janka Pieper:

Senior Director, Global Engagement and Intercultural Initiatives
jennifer.gerrard@northwestern.edu

Jennifer Gerrard and Janka Pieper are certified in:
- Cultural Orientations Approach (COA) Academic Certified Practitioner
Certification Authority: TMC | A Berlitz Company - Global Competence and GCAA Certified Practitioner
Certification Authority: GCA: Global Competence & GCAA Certification