• Motto, Mission & Values
• History

Our History

Founding

The organization that evolved into the International Host Programs was formed in 1964 to address the needs of the international community while at the University of Virginia.

Recognizing the need for assistance to newly arriving international students, the director of what was later to become the International Studies Office, Lucy Hale, recruited community volunteers. They formed the precursor to the IHP, known as the Charlottesville International Hospitality Committee (CIHC).

Growth

As the international community grew at the University, it became apparent that services for spouses were also needed. The International Women’s Group was formed to welcome international wives of faculty, scholars, and students, providing assistance and opportunities to form relationships.

In 1972, the International Center opened and was operated with volunteer help. By 1978, the Center became an on-site extension of what was then known as the International Student Affairs Office. Lorna Sundberg became director of the International Center and University Liaison with the International Hospitality Committee in 1981.

Today

The organization changed its name to the International Host Programs in 1987 to better reflect the wider scope of its activities &mdash promoting friendship with and extending hospitality to international students, scholars, and their families during their stay at the University of Virginia.