Division of Intercultural Excellence
The Division of Intercultural Excellence hosts and sponsors a number of engaging and relevant signature events. We invite all members of the UVM community to find out more about each of our special events and programs below.
Damon Williams at a podium with a slide projected behind him that reads, Creating a Beloved Community UVM MLK Symposium Keynote Speech Finney presenting MLK Keynote in Ira Allen Chapel 2026 MLK Keynote Speaker Rosalyn Pelles speaking behind a UVM Podium with the Vermont State Flag behind her.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Keynote

DOIE's annual celebration honoring the life and work of Dr. King, held in the iconic Ira Allen Chapel. This free event features a guest speaker who embodies the legacy of Dr. King and advances UVM's commitment to Intercultural Excellence.
The 2027 celebration is scheduled for Thursday January 29.

More on the MLK Keynote Recording of 2026 MLK Keynote with Rosalyn Pelles
A full house in the Silver Maple ballroom sitting at tables looking at a presenter in the front row. An image of Harry Belafonte is projected on a large screen. Two women hold their hands to their hearts. Vice Provost Amer walking into hug speaker Cody Two Bears in front of a crowd.

Our Common Ground Symposium

This Symposium is a four-day event that brings scholars, performers, and community members together in the pursuit of a deeper understanding of how the diversity of experiences supports excellence for all.

The 2027 Symposium will be held from March 16-19

Symposium Details
A spread of food on a table cloth with a person's arm holding a utensil grabbing something from a tray.

Longer Table Gatherings

Hosted twice a year by DOIE, these gatherings provide a space for UVM faculty and staff to find and foster a sense of community, pride and belonging. The event is a time to unwind and connect with music, food, and conversation.

The next Longer Table Gathering will be held in May, 2027

Woman wearing a hijab facing away from the camera looks at a print of artwork on an easel. Plate of breakfast food including bacon, cornbread, collard greens, empanadas, fried chicken, and a waffle President Garimella, Dr. Sherwood Smith, and Vice Provost Amer Ahmed smile and laugh while standing around a hightop table

Andrew Harris Legacy Reception

Named after the first African American graduate of UVM, this annual event honors the legacy and work of UVM community members who have inspired and strengthened inclusive excellence on our campus.

Event Details Watch video from the 2026 Reception
Indigenous girl and older woman gathering herbs in the field

Indigenous Peoples’ Day at UVM

On Monday, October 12th, 2026 the University of Vermont acknowledged Indigenous Peoples' Day by hosting a variety of events throughout the day, including

Morning campus walk
Viewing and Discussion of "K'etniyi: The Land is Speaking to Us"
Presentation by local Indigenous artist

Affiliated events and programs