The Office of Global Affairs (OGA)
Hello! Hola! Bonjour! Privet! Hej! Guten tag! Ni hao! Salam! and Jambo!
The Office of Global Affairs (OGA) helps prepare Rockford University students, faculty and community constituents for active participation in a rapidly changing global society by internationalizing our campus and curriculum, facilitating experiential learning opportunities, and developing our international partnerships to achieve Rockford University’s strategic objectives.
- Learn more about becoming an International Student
- Learn more about our English Language Institute
- Learn more about our Study Abroad programs
- Learn more about the Council of Global Affairs
Global Connections Newsletter
Office of Global Affairs (OGA)
Burpee 2nd Floor
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4138
Fax: 001-815-226-4141Maria Diemer, Executive Director
mdiemer@rockford.eduJulie Griffith, Associate Director
jgriffith@rockford.eduDaniel Nord, Assistant Director
dnord@rockford.edu微信/Wechat ID: JulieOGA_Rockford
Hours:
Mon-Fri - 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Come Tour the World at the Rockford University International Food Festival on April 11, 2026!
A beloved Rockford University tradition, the International Food Festival shares the flavors and cultures of over 30 countries! Join more than 400 guests as they journey “Around the World,” guided by our international students, staff, and faculty through their home countries’ most iconic landmarks and cultural epicenters. Savor global delicacies prepared by our very own Chef David before witnessing the inspiring flag ceremony, where representatives proudly march in traditional dress to the stir of national anthems. It’s more than a festival—it’s a powerful celebration of the global spirit that defines RU.
For more information, please email globalaffairs@rockford.edu. You can purchase tickets here.
Around the World
- 3:00 – 5:00 PM
- Burpee Lower Level
- Open to the Public
International Dinner
- 4:30 – 6:00 PM
- Burpee Dining Hall
- Ticket Event
Flag Ceremony
- 6:30
- Regents Hall
- Open to the Public
Check Out Our Global Spotlight Students of the Month!
Community Friends Program
The Community Friends Program matches families in the Rockford community with international students. These families help international students by giving them the opportunity to have authentic cultural experiences in the area and in their homes. Many students who have participated in this program in past years have shared holidays at their Community Friends’ homes and have attended local area attractions with their families. Participation in this program is a great way for Rockford community members to learn about cultures and countries from around the world! The simple application process involves a background check for the hosting household members at no charge to participants. If you are interested in being a Community Friend to an international student, please complete the Community Friends application. If you are an international student who would like a Community Friend, you can request to join the program here.
Meet the Team
Maria Diemer |
Julie Griffith |
Daniel Nord |
Being an international student-athlete gave me the opportunity to create unbreakable relationships, live unforgettable moments, and develop social skills while having a great experience getting my degrees at Rockford University.
When I first started at Rockford University, I never imagined I had the potential to be a confident presenter. But through my major in International Studies, my double minors, my work at the Office of Global Affairs, and my role as president of the Multicultural Club, I discovered who I truly am. The Office of Global Affairs has been like a second family to me—three amazing “moms” who always had my back. Because of their support, I chose Rockford University as my second home to continue my master’s education in Project Management. They also helped me find my second career path. These experiences have shaped me in ways I will always cherish, and I’m forever grateful for this incredible, supportive community.
