International Students Association at the University of Montana

ISA Executive Board Meeting

Every Monday 6PM at UC 224. See you there!

For any questions or suggestions we can by reached by:
E-mail: isa@umontana.edu
Mail: International Student Association
University Center 2nd Floor
ASUM Box #37
Missoula, MT 59812

The History of ISA

Professor Young, who was the University Pastor, organized the International Student Association in 1924. His intent was to facilitate understanding among people and to unify the foreign students through a campus-wide organization. The result was the International Club, which was the precursor to the International Student Association. The goal of the club was to develop an international mindset, with members contributing knowledge and talents to promote fellowship and understanding. The club did not operate solely within the confines of its members. Instead, it reached out into the greater community and opened its doors to all who wanted to participate in its activities.

The first committee in the 1924-1925 school year elected Mr. Alexander Stepanzoff from Russia as the first president. Though there were only 14 countries represented in 1924, the students were very active. With the theme "Above all nations is humanity" in mind, the International Club organized many activities, including sports events, community projects, and an international student orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Stepanzoff. Perhaps one of the most significant efforts of the International Club was the presentation of a skit entitled "Above all nations is humanity" which echoed exactly the guiding theme of the club. The Depression and war slowed down the development of the club, but in the late 1950's it once again flourished.

Students came from as far away as Indonesia. Club members began to give talks about their countries on campus and in the community, to educate Missoulians about the world outside their borders and to promote cultural understanding. The 1960's were a time of upheaval for many of the foreign students here. It was the era of Civil Rights, and America was in turmoil. Many students were victims of discrimination, particularly those from Africa or India. Charles Wader, an ISA advisor, spoke out against the discrimination. Believing that understanding had to be fostered at the grassroots level, he encouraged the community to embrace its foreign students.

The social changes of the 1970's saw a tremendous rise in the number of foreign students attending the university. ISA was responsible for organizing many trips and events, including sports events. Because soccer had always been a favorite among the foreign students, an ISA soccer team was
organized in 1980. Among other activities, ISA participated yearly in the University of Montana Homecoming Parade. Their international float has received several awards for its colorful and uncommon decorations. In 1983, Ms. Linda Barakat from Lebanon was chosen to be Homecoming Queen. Over the years, ISA has grown to become the second largest student organization on campus. It has over 400 members, representing more than 75 countries. ISA is active both in the community and on campus, organizing activities such as a Halloween Party, the Thanksgiving Banquet, and the annual International Culture and Food Festival.

ISA student representatives participate in a number of organizations on campus, including the ASUM Senate. Because ISA representatives are also members of other organizations and committees on campus, they are able to address issues that affect the members of ISA, so students' voices are heard.