A New Partnership, Global Perspectives, and Insights from the Conference
Dr. Ulla Connor engages conference attendees with insightful opening remarks, setting the tone for a day of learning and collaboration.
In a groundbreaking collaboration between the International Center for Intercultural Communication (ICIC) and the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the 9th Intercultural Rhetoric and Discourse Conference, held on October 5th–7th, was a celebration of multidisciplinary dialogue, global collaboration, and impactful engagement. This year’s conference coincided with the 25th anniversary of ICIC and marked almost 20 years since the inception of the first IR Conference in 2004.
The conference served as a melting pot of diverse perspectives, fostering a rich dialogue on the multidisciplinary aspects of intercultural communication. Scholars, practitioners, and experts from various academic disciplines, including rhetoric, health communication, business, and philanthropy, came together to explore the multifaceted dimensions of intercultural rhetoric and discourse. The conference kicked off with a workshop on corpus linguistics led by Dr. Viviana Cortes from Georgia State University and the next two days featured a dynamic program comprised of three engaging panels, 18 concurrent presentations, and nine thought-provoking featured presentations.
An enriching virtual conversation among longtime friends and colleagues: Drs. Ulla Connor, Anna Mauranen, and Ana Moreno engage in a lively Zoom interview with esteemed genre analysis scholar, Dr. John Swales.
Dr. Ulla Connor reconnects with former students, emphasizing the ongoing influence of shared learning experiences at the conference.
One of the defining features of the Intercultural Rhetoric and Discourse Conference was its international scope. Speakers from 13 different countries across five continents convened to share their research, experiences, and insights. Conference presenters and attendees shared ideas and collaborated on crucial topics such as immigration, nationalism, literacy, intercultural knowledge, and more. The exchange of ideas across borders laid the foundation for future collaborations and partnerships, fostering a sense of global solidarity and mutual understanding.
Panelists gather for a group photo after discussing ‘English Education for Indiana’s Immigrant Population,’ emphasizing practical strategies and collaborative efforts for inclusive learning environments.
The conference highlighted ICIC’s longstanding partnerships with IR and discourse scholars, sustained relationships that have evolved over time, including international collaborations stemming from a recent service-learning exchange program hosted by ICIC and funded by the Department of State, and ongoing connections with the community organizations. Scholars from these partnerships actively contributed to the conference discussions by presenting on panels such as ‘English Education for Indiana’s Immigrant Population’ and ‘Service-Learning Across Cultures,’ bringing their diverse backgrounds and expertise to the forefront of the dialogue. These collaborations have not only enriched our understanding of intercultural communication but also paved the way for future joint initiatives, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the confines of the conference.
Conference attendees enjoy a casual lunch together, sharing ideas and fostering new friendships, enhancing the conference experience.
Drs. Ulla Connor, Tamara Roose, and Itesh Sachdev celebrate with smiles and camaraderie at the conference reception.
In conclusion, the 9th Intercultural Rhetoric and Discourse Conference, with its multidisciplinary focus, global participation, and impactful collaborations, stands as a testament to the power of intercultural communication in shaping a connected and inclusive world. The shared knowledge, experiences, and partnerships forged during this event will undoubtedly inspire future initiatives, fostering a global community committed to meaningful dialogue, understanding, and positive change.