During the 2025–2026 academic year, the KSU campus and community will embark on a journey to discover the United Kingdom. From education abroad opportunities to dynamic on-campus programs, the Year of the United Kingdom will offer a yearlong exploration of the country’s vibrant culture, complex history, and global impact.
This initiative builds on KSU’s proud tradition of globally focused programming through the annual Year of Country Study, established in 1984. We are excited to continue collaborating with international, national, and campus partners to present performances, events, lectures, exhibits, film screenings, and seminars. Each offering is designed to spark connection, foster engagement across cultures, and deepen cross-cultural understanding.
Throughout the year, we’ll explore the unique identities and shared heritage of the UK’s four nations: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. We invite you to be part of this exciting celebration of global learning and cultural exchange. Join us!
See the 2025-2026 program and events listed below, as well as special resources and academic credit opportunities. We look forward to seeing you at the diverse programming being offered this year as part of the Year of the United Kingdom. Many thanks to the faculty and staff, as well as the campus, community, and international partners, who are bringing the UK experience to Kennesaw State University!
Please follow us @ksu.yearof on Instagram to keep up with event details, including
updated times and locations should unforeseen circumstances require a change.
If you have any questions about the events listed below, contact Community Engagement
and Outreach in Global Education at global.engagement@kennesaw.edu.
SPRING 2026: January & February
WOW: Trivia Night - Across the Pond & Beyond -YoUK Spring KICKOFF
Date: Tuesday, January 13
Time: 4:00-6:00 PM
Location: Student Center, Ballrooms (Marietta)
Snapshot: Pull up and test your global brain from UK culture and history to worldwide facts. This is your chance to flex what you know (or guess really well). Bring friends, compete for bragging rights, and see if you’ve got international main character energy. Pizza on deck and prizes up for grabs!
Hosted by: Education Abroad and the Year of the UK in the Office of Global Education
CULTURE: KSU's Multicultural Tastings
Date: Wednesday, January 14
Time: 12:30-2:00 PM
Location: Student Center, Ballrooms (Marietta)
Snapshot: Join us for a celebration of global flavors with a special nod to the United Kingdom.
Participants will enjoy sampling dishes from countries around the world, experiencing
the rich diversity of international cuisine in one place.
Hosted by: Student Engagement and Success with the Year of the UK on board
WOW: Brits & Hits - YoUK Spring KICKOFF
Date: Thursday, January 15
Time: 5:30-7:30 PM
Location: Student Center, University Rooms (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: Kickoff the semester with a UK music takeover. KSU artists are serving iconic British
songs with LIVE performances, while we serve up snacks, merch, and games.
Hosted by: Global Education and Katz Music & Entertainment Business (MEBUS)
FILM SERIES: Real Adam Smith - Morality & Markets
Date: Wednesday, January 21
Time: 11:15 AM-12:15 PM
Location: Convocation Center, Room 2016 (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: Meet the first moral philosopher and see how the concepts he discussed are still relevant today. In “Morality and Markets,” Smith’s upbringing during the Scottish Enlightenment and his roots as a moral philosopher take center stage. This segment examines his early interest in ethics and empathy and illustrates how these ideas influence modern consumer choices. This film explores Smith’s views on government’s role in markets, his contempt for monopolies and cronyism (with reference to entities like the East India Company), and his stance on the American colonies.
*NOTE: These two 56-minute episodes (1/21 and 1/28) together trace Smith’s development from moral philosopher to the “father of modern economics,” showing how his insights into morality and trade continue to underpin today’s interconnected global markets.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and Economic
Opportunity and Professor of Economics in Coles College of Business
FILM: Real Adam Smith - Ideas that Changed the World
Date: Wednesday, January 28
Time: 11:15 AM-12:15 PM
Location: Convocation Center, Room 2016 (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: In “Ideas That Changed the World,” the focus shifts to Smith’s impact on today’s global economy. This episode illustrates how principles of free trade and economic freedom that Smith championed in The Wealth of Nations have shaped modern prosperity—spanning breakthroughs in China’s economic liberalization to Hong Kong’s rise under Sir John Cowperthwaite.
NOTE: These two 56-minute episodes (1/21 and 1/28) together trace Smith’s development from moral philosopher to the “father of modern economics,” showing how his insights into morality and trade continue to underpin today’s interconnected global markets.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and
Economic Opportunity and Professor of Economics in Coles College of Business
CULTURE: Tea with a Brit
Date: Thursday, January 29
Time: 12:00-2:00 PM
Location: Prillaman Hall, Indoor Plaza - Room 1001 (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: Drop by to experience a beloved British tradition as you sip a cuppa hot tea and savor a sweet treat with friends.
Hosted by: Year of the UK
SERVICE AND CULTURE: Cards for a Cause: Royal (Owls) Voluntary Service
Date: Friday, January 30
Time: 12:00-2:00 PM
Location: Global Education in the Academic Learning Center, Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: In recognition of over 85 years of service through the UK's Royal Voluntary Service
organization, we'll be hosting our own monthly projects, creating cards for local
communities including healthcare workers, children, and the elderly. Have a cuppa
tea while you create and connect!
Hosted by: Year of the UK and KSU's Student Volunteerism and Service Department
POETRY: Daydreams and Jellybeans
Dates: Tuesday, February 3
Time: 2:30-4:00 PM
Locations: The Nest, Sturgis Library
Snapshot: For daydreamers, overthinkers, and anyone who likes their feelings with a little sugar.
Come vibe, listen, and let your thoughts wander.
Welsh Poet Alex Wharton’s words have reached royalty and the Met Gala stage. Now he’s coming to KSU (from the UK) to spin his rhymes, while inspiring and challenging the Owls to create our own. Tap into your creativity, explore a slice of Welsh history, and meet his partner Jenni Crane — BBC broadcaster and Emma Watson/Hermione stand-in in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Royalty vibes. Zero pressure.
Giveaways include signed copies of Alex’s books, daydream/poetry journals, imagination stickers, and… jellybeans!!
Hosted by: KSU’s Office of Global Education and University Libraries
SPOTLIGHT PROGRAM: Learning from Adam Smith Today
Date: Monday, February 9th (formerly scheduled for January 26)
Time: 10:10-11:00 AM
Location: English Building, Room 102 (Kennesaw)
College Spotlight Snapshot: Adam Smith’s TheWealth of Nations was published 250 years ago (exactly: in March, 1776) — why suppose it is still relevant? There are answers to that question that take Smith to anticipate left- or right-wing policies in the modern day. Fleischacker will instead talk about aspects of Smith's work that are useful for thinking about policy regardless of our particular political perspectives.
Speaker: Dr. Samuel Fleischacker, PhD, UCHV Laurance S. Rockefeller Fellow, Princeton, 2025-2026
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and Economic
Opportunity and Professor of Economics in Coles College of Business
SPOTLIGHT PROGRAM: What Was So Great About 18th Century Scotland?
Date: Monday, February 9 (formerly scheduled for January 26)
Time: 11:15 AM-12:05 PM
Location: Convocation Center, Room 2016 (Kennesaw)
College Spotlight Snapshot: It’s widely agreed that the center for philosophy in the United Kingdom, during the Enlightenment, was Scotland rather than England. This lecture will explain why, focusing on the work of Frances Hutcheson, David Hume and Adam Smith, and on the importance of sociability, and of emotion, in their work.
Speaker: Dr. Samuel Fleischacker, PhD, UCHV Laurance S. Rockefeller Fellow, Princeton, 2025-2026
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and Economic
Opportunity and Professor of Economics in Coles College of Business
ART: Valentine's Paint & Sip
Date: Tuesday, February 10
Time: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Student Center, 2nd Floor Lobby (Marietta)
College Spotlight Snapshot: Enjoy a cuppa tea while creating hand-painted Valentine's cards inspired by the charm
of an English garden!
Hosted by: Geer College of the Arts' faculty member Donna Colebeck
WELL-BEING: Build-A-Valentine
Date: Wednesday, February 11
Time: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Student Center, 2nd Floor Lobby (Marietta) & Rec Center, Room 1019 (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: Build your own plush bestie! Pick a UK unicorn, highland cow, or another cute critter
ready to be brought to life.
Hosted by: Student Activities
FASHION: A Stitch in Time
Date: Thursday, February 19
Time: 12:30-2:30 PM
Location: TBD (Kennesaw)
College Spotlight Snapshot: Join us for a special screening of the acclaimed BBC documentary series followed by a virtual conversation with Amber Butchart, BBC fashion historian and author. Explore the fascinating history of British style and craftmanship.
Hosted by: Radow CHSS Faculty Member Matthew Terrell
Photo Taken By: Rob Ball
ECONOMICS: Economist and American Revolutionary - Adam Smith and 1776
Date: Monday, February 23
Time: 11:15 AM-12:05 PM
Location: Convocation Center, Room 2016 (Kennesaw)
College Spotlight Snapshot: 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the publication of two texts that changed the
world: The Declaration of Independence and Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations. Dr. Gregg will explore the relationship between these two texts. He will also examine Adam Smith's analysis of the economic forces driving the split between Britain and its colonies, and his suggestions about how to solve the crisis. He will argue that it is his economic analysis that makes Smith’s insights into the American crisis truly revolutionary.
Speaker: A leading political economist, Dr. Samuel Gregg is also the president of the American
Institute for Economic Research (https://aier.org/), a nonpartisan research organization
dedicated to promoting personal freedom, free enterprise, property rights, limited
government, and sound money. The author of 17 books, his latest book is The Next American
Economy: Nation, State, and Markets in an Uncertain World.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and Economic
Opportunity and Professor of Economics in Coles College of Business
HISTORY & ARCHITECTURE: Transatlantic Design
Date: Tuesday, February 24
Time: 2:00-3:00 PM
Location: Student Center Ballrooms (Marietta)
Snapshot: Dr. Danielle S. Willkens, Associate Professor of Architecture at Georgia Tech, shares insights from her book, The Transatlantic Design Network: Thomas Jefferson, John Soane, and Agents of Architectural Exchange.
Hosted by: KSU's History Club
LITERATURE: Book Club - David Copperfield and Demon Copperhead
Date: Wednesday, February 25
Time: 2:30-3:30 PM
Location: Virtual (Link to be added)
Snapshot: It’s a Victorian-meets-modern mashup! Come hang out and chat about David Copperfield and Demon Copperhead, how one inspired the other, what themes still apply now, and which characters live rent-free in your head.
Hosted by: KSU's Libraries
MUSIC: A British Tapestry - Echoes from the Moors and Meadows
Date: Moved from January 27 to March 31
Time: 7:30-9:00 PM
Location: Bailey Performance Center, Morgan Concert Hall (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: KSU voice faculty present Echoes from the Moors and Meadows with songs from Britten,
Gurney, Vaughan Williams, and Finzi. Box Office Tickets: $10; $5 (students)
Hosted by: Geer College of the Arts and the Bailey School of Music
SPRING 2026: March, April & May
More to come!!
FALL 2025: November & December
FILM SERIES/HISTORY: Imitation Game
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Time: 10:10 AM-12:00 Noon
Location: Burruss Building, Room 151 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for a special screening of Imitation Game, a powerful historical drama based on the life of UK mathematician Alan Turing. Set during World War II, the film tells the story of how Turing and his team at Bletchley Park cracked the German Enigma code—an achievement that not only helped shorten the war but also laid the groundwork for modern computing. This gripping film highlights the UK’s pivotal role in global history and innovation, with lasting impacts on both technology and the economy. Don’t miss this chance to experience a story of brilliance, secrecy, and legacy.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and Economic
Opportunity and Professor of Economics
HISTORY: Spill the Tea - Calendar Chaos & England’s Eleven Missing Days
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Time: 12:00-12:30 PM (15-minute mini-lecture, followed by Q&A)
Location: Office of Global Education in the Academic Learning Center (ALC), Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Bring your lunch and grab a cuppa tea, while you hear how England royally messed with
the calendar.
Hosted by: Dr. Marianne Holdzkom, Professor of History, and the Office of Global Education
SNAPSHOT: Tennis as we know it today was founded in England in 1873. Serve up some fun and friendly competition by joining KSU Intramurals for a Wimbledon-style tennis tournament! Whether you're a seasoned singles player or just love the game, this event brings the excitement of the UK’s most iconic tennis championship to campus. All skill levels are welcome.
ART: Wingate Artist-in-Residence Jennifer Angus Lecture
Date: Thursday, November 6
Time: 5:00-6:00 PM
Location: Zuckerman Museum of Art
SNAPSHOT: Hear from Jennifer Angus, a professor in the Design Studies Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she teaches textile design, with a specific focus on all things relating to the dyeing and printing of cloth, including natural dyes. Her large-scale installations feature ornate patterns that are composed of hundreds of insects placed in arrangements suggestive of wallpaper and textiles. She is an artist described by Art Daily as “one of the top contemporary installation artists in the country” and is known to create some of the most provocative work ever seen in an art museum setting.
See her artwork in "Lady Bug" on display in Zuckerman's Malinda Jolley Mortin Gallery.
Location: KSU Center, Room 300 (3333 Busbee Drive, Kennesaw 30144)
SNAPSHOT:
5:00-6:00 PM - Guided tours of the museum and preview of The Special Relationship: The U.S. and the U.K. during WWII exhibit
6:00-6:30 PM - Introductory remarks and pizza served
6:30-8:15 PM - Screening of Dunkirk, an action film depicting the historic evacuation of Allied forces during WWII, directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Barry Keoghan, Tom Hardy, Harry Styles (debut), and more!
Hosted by: KSU's Museum of History and Holocaust Education (MHHE)
ENGINEERING FILM SERIES: Skyfall
Date: Friday, November 7
Time: 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Engineering Technology Center (Q), Room 202 (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for a thrilling film screening of Skyfall, one of the most iconic entries in the James Bond series! Set against stunning UK backdrops—from the bustling streets of London to the rugged Scottish Highlands—Skyfall blends action, espionage, and striking architecture, including scenes at MI6 headquarters and the dramatic Skyfall estate. Don’t miss this thrilling journey through espionage and engineering excellence!
Hosted by: Dr. Roneisha Worthy, Assistant Dean of Student Success and Professor of Civil Engineering
FILM SERIES: Darkest Hour
Date: Tuesday, November 11
Time: 10:10 AM-12 NOON
Location: Engineering Technology Center (Q), Room 202 (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for a special screening of Darkest Hour, the gripping historical drama that chronicles Winston Churchill’s leadership during one of Britain’s most pivotal moments. Set in the early days of World War II, the film explores the political and economic pressures facing the UK as it stood alone against Nazi Germany. Churchill’s decisions not only shaped the course of history but also had profound impacts on the British economy, from wartime production to national resilience. This powerful film offers a compelling look at how leadership and economic strategy intersect in times of crisis.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and
Economic Opportunity and Professor of Economics
FILM SERIES: The Iron Lady
Date: Wednesday, November 12
Time: 10:10 AM-12 NOON
Location: Burruss Building, Room 151 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for a screening of The Iron Lady, the compelling biographical drama that explores the life and legacy of former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Set during a transformative period in British history, the film highlights Thatcher’s bold economic reforms, including privatization, deregulation, and efforts to reduce the power of trade unions. These policies reshaped the UK economy and sparked both growth and controversy. Don’t miss this thought-provoking film that blends political history with economic impact.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and
Economic Opportunity and Professor of Economics
SERVICE: Cards for a Cause
Date: Thursday, November 13
Time: 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Location: Academic Learning Center, Global Education Lounge, Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: In recognition of over 85 years of service through the UK's Royal Voluntary Service
organization, we'll be hosting our own monthly projects, creating cards for local
communities including healthcare workers, children, and the elderly. Have a cuppa
tea while you create and connect!
Enter KSU's Royal Owls Voluntary Service for additional prizes -- specific to the Year of the United Kingdom and the Royal
Owls!!!
ART: Paint & Sip Watercolor Flowers
Date: Tuesday, November 18
Time: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Student Center, University Room A (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Relax, sip, and paint! Join us for a cozy creative session where you'll learn how to paint using watercolors, while sipping UK hot tea. Along the way, you'll discover the work of renowned UK artists and explore how their styles and scenery have inspired for centuries. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and your interest in art for a relaxing break.
BOOK CLUB: Pride and Prejudice
Date: Wednesday, November 19
Time: 2:00-3:30 PM
Location: Sturgis Library, The Nest (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: The "Year of the UK Book Club" continues with Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen’s beloved novel that continues to captivate readers around the world. Set in early 19th-century England, the story offers a witty and insightful look at British society, class, and economic expectations—especially as they relate to marriage and inheritance. This timeless classic provides a rich backdrop for conversation about the UK’s cultural and historical landscape. Come ready to reflect and discuss the book -- and enjoy a cuppa tea and a biscuit
while you connect with faculty, staff, and students.
Hosted by: The University Libraries and the Office of Global Education
Tea Time for Finals
Date: Wednesday, December 3
Time: 11 :00AM-1:00 PM
Location: SRAC, Health Promotion & Wellness Suite - Room 1200 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Take a break from the stress of finals prep and enjoy a taste of the UK! Drop in for traditional UK tea and grab a biscuit, perfect for unwinding and recharging. Whether you're craving a warm cuppa tea or a slightly sweet treat, this relaxing event is just what you need to refresh your mind. Come sip, snack, and de-stress with us!
Hosted by: Health Promotion & Wellness and the Office of Global Education
Tea Time for Finals
Date: Thursday, December 4
Time: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Wilson Student Center, 2nd Floor Lobby (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Take a break from the stress of finals prep and enjoy a taste of the UK! Drop in for traditional UK tea and grab a biscuit, perfect for unwinding and recharging. Whether you're craving a warm cuppa tea or a slightly sweet treat, this relaxing event is just what you need to refresh your mind. Come sip, snack, and de-stress with us!
Hosted by: Health Promotion & Wellness and the Office of Global Education
LEGO Hack-a-thon
Date: Friday, December 5
Time: 3:00-5:00 PM
Location: Atrium Building (J), Room 1122 (Marietta)
COLLEGE SPOTLIGHT SNAPSHOT: Calling all KSU first-year engineering students. Get ready to build, connect, and
compete (with bricks)! Join us for a LEGO Hack-a-thon where teams will race against
the clock to construct epic LEGO Architecture sets like Big Ben and Tower Bridge.
You’ll be placed in diverse teams to flex your teamwork and communication skills, and the top builders will walk away with awesome LEGO prizes like the London Streetscape.
It’s engineering, creativity, and fun—all snapped together!
Return here for the link to sign up!
Hosted by: Dr. Roneisha Worthy, Assistant Dean of Student Success and Professor of Civil Engineering
ENGINEERING FILM SERIES: The BFG
Date: Friday, December 5
Time: 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Atrium Building (J), Room 1122 (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Celebrate the Year of the United Kingdom and the end of the semester, with a special
screening of The BFG, where imagination meets innovation in both storytelling and design. This beloved tale showcases fantastical worlds and towering structures that echo the UK’s rich legacy in architecture and engineering. From the whimsical layout of Giant Country to the clever contraptions used to catch dreams, the film reflects the creativity and problem-solving spirit that drives British ingenuity.
Hosted by: Dr. Roneisha Worthy, Assistant Dean of Student Success and Professor of Civil Engineering
MUSIC: KSU's Community and Alumni Choir Fall Concert
Date: Thursday, December 11
Time: 7:30-9:00 PM
Location: Bailey Performance Center (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: In honor of KSU’s “Year of the United Kingdom," this concert will begin with a festive collection of traditional carols from the United Kingdom—a charming set that’s sure to delight our audience. After intermission, we’ll return stateside with a set of contemporary Americana with a twist. Featured composers include William Mathias, Dan Forrest, John Rutter, Kyle Pederson, Shawn Kirchner, and Ola Gjeilo.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the KSU Box Office for $5-$15.
Hosted By: KSU's Community and Alumni Choir (CAC)
FALL 2025: October
Ideas & Economic Crises in the UK (Session 1) and Of Paradigms & Power: How Brexit
Changed the UK's Economic Reality (Session 2)
Date: Wednesday, October 1
Time: 9:05-9:55 AM (Session 1) & 10:10-11:00 AM (Session 2)
Location: Burruss Building, Room 151 (Kennesaw)
College Spotlight SNAPSHOT: Join us for a guest lecture with Dr. Matthias Matthijs, who will explore how Britain shifted from a market-based economy to postwar socialism—and then back again with the rise of Thatcherism. Hear about the ideas, crises, and turning points that shaped modern Britain. Whether you're into history, politics, or economics, this is a talk you won’t want to miss!
Dr. Matthijs is the Dean Acheson Chair at Johns Hopkins University and Associate Professor of International Political Economy. Dr. Matthijs is a leading expert on the United Kingdom’s post-WWII economic and political history.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and Economic
Opportunity and Professor of Economics
Spill the Tea: England: A Land without Music?
Date: Wednesday, October 1
Time: 12:00-12:30 PM (15-minute mini-lecture, followed by Q&A)
Location: Office of Global Education in the Academic Learning Center (ALC), Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Bring your lunch and grab a cuppa tea, while you hear why the English developed a
reputation for being bad at music.
Hosted by: Dr. Amy Dunagin, Associate Professor of History, and the Office of Global Education
Engineering Film Series: Mary Poppins Returns
Date: Friday, October 3
Time: 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Engineering Technology Center (Q), Room 202 (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for a screening of Mary Poppins Returns, the magical film that brings London to life through music, adventure, and imagination. As Mary and the children explore the city, the film showcases iconic UK landmarks and celebrates the charm of British architecture and engineering. From sweeping rooftop views to classic cityscapes, it’s the perfect way to experience the wonder of London and its rich cultural heritage, alongside Emily Blunt!
Hosted by: Dr. Roneisha Worthy, Assistant Dean of Student Success and Professor of Civil Engineering
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble
Date: Saturday, October 4
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Bailey Performance Center, Morgan Concert Hall (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: The renowned Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble was formed in 1967, drawing its membership from the principal players of the internationally acclaimed UK orchestra the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. This performance will feature strings and woodwinds, including the monumental Schubert Octet. Be prepared for a night of warmth, and expressive style, as this world-class group brings the elegance of British chamber music to life. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of artistry and musical excellence.
Tickets: $20 / $5 (students) Tickets can be purchased online (+$2.50 processing fee)
Hosted by: Bailey School of Music and Geer College of the Arts
Photo Credit: Jay Patel
KSU Men's Club Rugby v. Louisiana State University
Date: Saturday, October 11
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Rugby Field beside Fifth Third Stadium
SNAPSHOT: Get ready for an action-packed match as KSU Men’s Club Rugby takes on Louisiana State University. Rugby, a sport born in the United Kingdom, is known for its strength, strategy, and teamwork—qualities that continue to define the game today. This event is a great way to experience the spirit of UK sport while cheering on the Owls in a fierce and exciting showdown. Don’t miss it!
Free! No tickets required
Hosted by: KSU Club Rugby Team
Taste of the UK
Date: Tuesday, October 14
Time: 12:00-2:00 PM
Location: Stingers (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Enjoy a taste of the United Kingdom (UK) right here on campus! KSU Dining Halls will be serving traditional UK dishes that highlight the rich and comforting flavors of UK cuisine. From savory classics to sweet favorites, this is a delicious way to explore UK culture—one bite at a time. Don’t miss this flavorful celebration!
No extra swipes required.
Hosted by: KSU Dining Services
Taste of the UK
Date: Wednesday, October 15
Time: 12:00-2:00 PM
Location: The Commons (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Enjoy a taste of the United Kingdom right here on campus! KSU Dining Halls will be serving traditional British dishes that highlight the rich and comforting flavors of UK cuisine. From savory classics to sweet favorites, this is a delicious way to explore British culture—one bite at a time. Don’t miss this flavorful celebration!
No extra swipes required.
Hosted by: KSU Dining Services
Animals of the UK: Petting Zoo
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 11:30 AM-1:30 PM
Location: K-Field (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Get up close to some of the UK’s most familiar woolly, furry, and feathered friends at our on-campus petting zoo! This fun and interactive event features animals commonly found across the UK countryside, from sheep and goats, to rabbits and a pony!
Hosted by: Health Promotion & Wellness and the Office of Global Education
Allies in Adversity: The UK and France
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 5:00-6:00 PM
Location: Academic Learning Center (ALC), Room 2104 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Throughout time, France and the United Kingdom have almost never been on the same page…about anything. And yet, times of crises have brought them together. World War II is one instance. It posed a significant threat to Europe and the world, causing many countries to unite for a solution -- including France and the UK. The French Resistance took many forms, and their actions in England, under the direction of General de Gaule, were crucial to bringing about the end of World War II in Europe. Join us as we explore the different forms of French Resistance as it intersected with the Allied Forces in the UK.
Hosted by: Dr. Noelle Brown, Senior Lecturer of French, and the French Club
Animals of the UK: Petting Zoo
Date: Tuesday, October 21
Time: 11:30 AM-1:30 PM
Location: Campus Green (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Get up close to some of the UK’s most familiar woolly, furry, and feathered friends at our on-campus petting zoo! This fun and interactive event features animals commonly found across the UK countryside, from sheep and goats, to rabbits and a pony!
Hosted by: Health Promotion & Wellness and the Office of Global Education
Book Club: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
Date: Wednesday, October 22
Time: 2:00-3:30 PM
Location: Johnson Library, Rm 135 (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Get ready to blast off with the "Year of the UK" Book Club as we explore The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. This beloved British sci-fi comedy follows Arthur Dent, an ordinary
man swept into an extraordinary adventure across the universe after Earth is unexpectedly
demolished. With its sharp wit, quirky characters, and philosophical undertones, the
book is both hilarious and thought-provoking. Whether you're new to the story or revisiting
a classic, it's the perfect way to celebrate iconic UK literature.
Come ready to reflect and discuss the book -- and enjoy a cuppa and a biscuit while
you connect with faculty, staff, and students.
Register for the Book Club here -- and see all of the books being read and reviewed this year!
Hosted by: The University Libraries and the Office of Global Education
Service Project: Cards for a Cause
Date: Thursday, October 23 and Friday, October 24
Time: 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Location: Academic Learning Center, Global Education Lounge, Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: In recognition of over 85 years of service through the UK's Royal Voluntary Service
organization, we'll be hosting our own monthly projects, creating cards for local
communities including healthcare workers, children, and the elderly. Have a cuppa
while you create and connect!
Enter KSU's Royal Owls Voluntary Service for additional prizes -- specific to the Year of the United Kingdom and the Royal
Owls!!!
Taste Test: Forget the tricks, just UK treats!
Date: Tuesday, October 28
Time: 12:00-2:00 PM
Location: Student Center Atrium (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Halloween often makes us think of candy. What better way to get a taste of the UK, than with a sampling of their favorite candy treats. It will be a fun way to enjoy the season and, although Halloween is less commercialized in the UK, you can discover what UK trick-or-treaters might find in their candy bags!
Hosted by: The Office of Global Education
Taste Test: Forget the tricks, just UK treats!
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 12:00-2:00 PM
Location: J-Building Lobby (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Halloween often makes us think of candy. What better way to get a taste of the UK, than with a sampling of their favorite candy treats. It will be a fun way to enjoy the season and, although Halloween is less commercialized in the UK, you can discover what UK trick-or-treaters might find in their candy bags!
Hosted by: The Office of Global Education
LITERATURE: A Night at Hogwarts
Date: Thursday, October 30
Time: 4:00-6:00 PM
Location: Sturgis Library, The Nest (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for an enchanted evening filled with spellbinding games, crafts, and a touch of mystery before Halloween. Grab a snack and get sorted into your Hogwarts House, test your trivia skills, and snap photos in your best wizard robes. (Come in costume if you'd like.) Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw, you’ll feel right at home in this magical celebration of the UK classic!
Hosted by: KSU University Libraries
FALL 2025: August & September
WOW: Year of the United Kingdom KICKOFF Event
Date: Friday, August 22
Time: 4:30-7:30 pm
Location: Student Center, University Rooms (Kennesaw)
Snapshot: Kick off the Year of the United Kingdom with an evening of fun, food, and friendly
competition! Join us for Bingo, team trivia, UK food tastings, and LIVE British music
performed by KSU students -- as we celebrate UK culture and test our knowledge of
all things UK. And don't forget the UK swag and prizes!!! You don't want to miss it!
Hosted by: Global Education and Katz Music & Entertainment Business (MEBUS)
WOW: Day of Service with a UK Spin on Fish & Chips
Date: Saturday, August 23
Time: Early Start!!
7:30 am: BOB pick up in front of the Marietta Campus Student Ctr.
7:50 am: BOB pick up at the Kennesaw Rec Center
8:30 am-12:00 pm: Lake Allatoona
12:30 pm: Back for lunch on the Kennesaw Campus AND at 2:00 pm BOB takes students
back to the Marietta Campus
Location: Lake Allatoona, specific location TBA upon arrival
Snapshot: Help protect the fish, by cleaning up areas around Lake Allatoona. Safety training
provided. Earn credit for the Royal Owls Voluntary Service. Get some chips and UK merch as a reward for your efforts!
Sign Up:Give Pulse; limited number of spots - sign up required in advance!
Hosted by: Student Volunteerism and Service and the Office of Global Education
The Naturalist: London artist shares her art and her inspiration
Date: Tuesday, August 26
Time: 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Snapshot: Join us for a virtual lecture with artist Tricia Wright, who hails from England. Wright's work is deeply inspired
by nature and history. Her art reflects a thoughtful connection to place, time, and
the natural world, and through the use of poetry she allows reflection on issues surrounding
beauty, self, and belonging.
Snapshot: Join us for an inspiring guest lecture by Jennifer Angus, renowned artist and professor
in the Design Studies Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
This large-scale exhibit celebrates three women entomologists -- two from the UK: The Madame Dragonfly and The Moth Queen, pseudonyms of Cynthia Longfield (1896-1991, English) and Alice Balfour (1850-1936, Scottish) respectively. Insects are the primary material in this installation, which like much of Angus' work explores issues related to the environment and the critical role insects play within it.
SNAPSHOT: As Oasis completes their 2025 international tour, you can screen the film that captures their rise as one of Britain’s most iconic rock bands. Told in the band’s own words, the film captures the chaos, creativity, and charisma that defined Oasis during their peak in the 1990s. From sold-out stadiums to sibling rivalries, this is a must-watch for music lovers and Britpop fans alike.
Hosted by: Dr. Timothy Mathews, Director of the Bagwell Center for the Study of Markets and
Economic Opportunity and Professor of Economics
Engineering Film Series: Peter Pan
Date: Friday, September 5
Time: 5:00-7:00 pm
Location: Engineering Technology Center (Q Building), Room 202 (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Peter Pan, the timeless tale of adventure, imagination, and never growing up. As you journey with Peter, Wendy, and the Lost Boys, discover how the story connects to iconic UK landmarks and feats of engineering—from the historic Tower Bridge evoking the magic of flight, to the Victorian architecture that inspired Neverland’s whimsical world. This beloved film offers a fresh lens on British culture, history, and creativity.
While you're watching, get prepared for the Engineering Lego Hack-a-Thon in December!
Hosted by: Dr. Roneisha Worthy, Assistant Dean of Student Success and Professor of Civil Engineering
KSU Women's Football Match (aka Soccer -- Brit style)
Date: Wednesday, September 10
Time: 7:00-9:00 pm
Location: Fifth Third Stadium
SNAPSHOT: Join FLIGHT and the Year of the United Kingdom for this special event, spotlighting UK culture during the KSU vs. Georgia Southern soccer (football) match.
From interactive tabling and exciting giveaways, to a halftime penalty shootout, we’re bringing the spirit of the UK to the field. In the United Kingdom—where the sport is famously called football—the game is more than just competition; it’s a cultural cornerstone that unites communities and ignites national pride.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the global passion that exists for football and celebrate the UK, right here at KSU!
ADMISSION IS FREE!!
Leading UK Music Mentor
Date: Friday, September 12
Time: 3:00-4:00 pm
Location: Zoom (Register below)
SNAPSHOT: KSU welcomes Harry Leckstein, Deputy Managing Director of the London College of Contemporary Music and Director of CREAT-ED. Harry Leckstein is a respected figure in the UK music industry and a passionate advocate for music education. With years of experience as a producer, creative mentor, and academic, he bridges the gap between industry and the classroom—helping emerging artists and students navigate the evolving music landscape. Hear about his journey, how he helps aspiring musicians find their way, and what it takes to thrive in the industry.
Sign Up: Register here to receive the Zoom link. Links will be emailed the morning of the event.
SNAPSHOT: Find out more about this top-ranking diplomat who represents Britain in the Southeastern
United States. Consul General Galloway and her office build connections, support British
citizens in the US, and strengthen ties between our countries through education, culture,
business, and politics. Meet her face to face and hear about her international journey
around the globe!
Hosted by: KSU Journey Honors College, Office of Prestigious Undergraduate Awards, and the Office
of Global Education
Spill the Tea: A Twist on UK News
Date: Wednesday, September 17
Time: 12:00-12:30 pm
Location: Academic Learning Center, Global Education Lounge, Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Bring your lunch and grab a cuppa, while you hear KSU student and History Club President
Andrew Bramlett spin the true tale of fake news in 1850s London, along with other
history that may or may not be the real deal -- and hits VERY close to home (in Georgia).
Hosted by: The KSU History Club and the Office of Global Education
Interchange: Art Collaboration with Live Performances
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 7:00-8:00 pm
Location: Zuckerman Museum of Art (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: Join us for this annual collaboration featuring faculty from all four disciplines
of the College of the Arts. This unique presentation of live performances celebrates
the creativity that all artistic disciplines share with one another. While there,
visit the UK-related art exhibits in the galleries, have a cuppa, and enjoy a UK snack!
Hosted by: Geer College of the Arts, Zuckerman Museum of Art, and the Office of Global Education
SoTL Summit: Featuring UK Champion for Student-Centered Learning
Date: Friday, September 19 (Full Conference Sept. 18-19)
Time: 9:30-10:30 am
Location: Zoom (Link provided after registration)
SNAPSHOT: KSU's Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) SUMMIT brings together educators
from around the world to discuss best practices in teaching and learning in higher
education.
This year's Summit features plenary speaker Professor Earle Abrahamson, a champion for student-centered learning -- who holds a PhD in the field and serves as a professor at the University of Hertfordshire, UK. Professor Abrahamson will be speaking on leadership in the field, in preparation for the launch of a learning and recognition program at KSU called the “SoTL Scaffold” that will enable SoTL leaders on campus to be recognized.
Faculty, staff, and students are invited to attend all or part of the Summit. Registration is free with your KSU email address.
For more information and to sign up visit the Summit site.
Hosted by: KSU's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL)
British Car Show
Date: Saturday, September 20
Time: 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Location: Central Parking Lot (Marietta)
SNAPSHOT: Look out James Bond! British car enthusiasts roll onto campus with their treasured
vehicles on display. Enjoy ice lollies, music, and pick up some exclusive "YoUK" merch,
while seeing these stylish automobiles up close!
Sign up to bring your modern or classic British car or motorcycle here.
Hosted by: KSU's Offices of Global Education and Parent and Family Programs
Book Club: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Date: Wednesday, September 24
Time: 2:00-3:30 pm
Location: Sturgis Library, The Nest (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: The first session of the Year of the United Kingdom book club features The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. This British classic follows four siblings who discover a magical world through a wardrobe, where they encounter mythical creatures, an eternal winter, and a powerful battle between good and evil. Rich in imagination and symbolism, the story offers a captivating journey through one of the UK’s most cherished literary works -- and at 75 years old it still captures readers, young and old alike!
Come ready to reflect and discuss the book -- and enjoy a cuppa and a biscuit while
you connect with faculty, staff, and students.
Register for the Book Club here -- and see all of the books being read and reviewed this year!
Hosted by: The University Libraries and the Office of Global Education
Concert: Music from the UK
Date: Wednesday, September 24
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Bailey Performance Center, Morgan Concert Hall (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: KSU's Symphony Orchestra presents a concert of British music including Elgar and
Vaughan Williams, conducted by Dr. Nathaniel Parker, Director of Orchestral Studies
and Associate Professor of Music.
Location: Prillaman Hall (HS), Room 1103 (Kennesaw)
College Spotlight SNAPSHOT: In recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, we’re excited to welcome Dr. Amy Watson (University of Alabama-Birmingham) to the KSU campus. Dr. Watson's research demonstrates that the term "Patriot," which American revolutionaries used to describe themselves, "was first adopted by a network of British politicians with radical ideas about the principles and purpose of the British Empire." Her work offers a new origin story of the American Revolution that emphasizes its British imperial scope.
Hosted by: Dr. Amy Dunagin, Associate Professor of History and Dr. Marianne Holdzkom, Professor
of History
Service Project: Cards for a Cause
Date: Friday, September 26
Time: 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Location: Academic Learning Center, Global Education Lounge, Suite 5625 (Kennesaw)
SNAPSHOT: In recognition of over 85 years of service through the UK's Royal Voluntary Service
organization, we'll be hosting our own monthly projects, creating cards for local
communities including healthcare workers, children, and the elderly. Have a cuppa
while you create and connect!
SNAPSHOT: Alumni tailgating will have a UK twist when you visit our table for trivia and prizes.
Registration required and there is a fee to attend, due to the activities and meal provided. Hope to see
you there!
In recognition of the amazing work that Britain's residents have been doing for over 85 years through the Royal Voluntary Service, KSU Owls will have the opportunity to volunteer as part of the "Year of the United Kingdom" and our Global Learning Opportunities (GLO) program, earning unique merch and leaving their mark on our local community. For the 2025-2026 academic year, KSU's Office of Global Education will be partnering with KSU's Office of Student Volunteerism and Service to create the Royal OWLS Voluntary Service Team. Once you sign up to be on the Royal OWLS Team, you can earn points and prizes -- just for helping others!
We think the Royal Voluntary Service says it quite perfectly on their website: Calling all students! Your local area needs your help, why not make a positive difference to your community and volunteer today? Volunteering is a wonderful thing to do, not just for others, but for yourself as well. Not only does it help...your community, it’s also good for you in many ways. Volunteering has a proven benefit to your physical and mental wellbeing, with great social opportunities offered through the roles you can choose from. It can also help you gain valuable experience, which can be handy when updating your CV or applying for jobs.
At KSU many of these volunteer opportunities aren't limited to students, so faculty
and staff can join in -- and we invite alumni and community members to volunteer at
KSU Day of Service to be a part!
To add to the joy of giving, we want to give back to you. As part of the 2025-2026
Royal OWLS Voluntary Service Team, you can earn points and win prizes while you help
others!
Every hour of service between August 18, 2025-April 15, 2026 earns you a point
Every hour of service in a “Year of United Kingdom” Cards for a Cause project earns you 2 points per hour (instead of 1)
Volunteer for the WOW OwlsServe on Saturday, August 23, 2025 and earn 10 points (instead of hourly points)
Volunteer for KSU Day of Service on Saturday, March 28, 2026 and earn 10 points (instead
of hourly points)
NOTE: All hours will be tracked by the Office of Global Education, however hours must be documented and verified in KSU’s GivePulse. All KSU students, faculty, and staff have a GivePulse account. Click the GivePulse button below, then log in by clicking the grey “Login via Kennesaw” button and enter your KSU email and password. Important: Include #RoyalOwls in the "Requested Information" section of your GivePulse reflection
after each volunteer event for the volunteer efforts and hours to count in Royal Owls.
Point System:
10 points - Royal Owls Voluntary Service - Collectible Button
25 points - Royal Owls Voluntary Service or "Year of the United Kingdom" - T-shirt
or Hat
40 points - Royal Owls Voluntary Service or "Year of the United Kingdom" - Tote Bag
This is your chance to join a team who is making a difference! Please note, the Royal
Owls Voluntary Service Team membership application closes 12/1/25. Sign up is simple;
just click the JOIN link below!
CARDS for a CAUSE: Sign up for the Year of the UK upcoming Cards for a Cause drop-in events on GivePulse. The Fall dates are September 26, October 23, and November
13. Click GivePulse below for details.
Questions: Email jasmine.edwards@kennesaw.edu for more information. #Playingmypart #YoUK
A priority of the annual Year of Country Study program has been and continues to be
inspiring and supporting international partnerships and research. To further this
goal, Global Education is working with KSU's Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR)
to provide funding of up to $1,000 for faculty who choose to mentor undergraduate
researchers, while expanding their research in partnership with colleagues in the
country of focus. Faculty who wish to be considered, must identify a research partner
within that country's higher education institution/s or organization/s, and complete
the application.
Congratulations to Dr. Soon Goo Lee, Assistant Professor of Molecular and Cellular
Biology, College of Science and Mathematics AND Dr. Shadi Beshai, Associate Professor
of Psychology, Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Both received
funds to support their research during the 2024-2025 Year of Country Study on Canada.
Applications for the Year of the United Kingdom will open in August. They will be
reviewed on a rolling basis until December 15, 2025, or when all funds are disbursed,
whichever comes first. Please review the requirements at the OUR website link below.
KSU students and alumni can visit parts of the United Kingdom (UK) and experience some of their culture firsthand during the 2025-26 academic year. Alumni, get ready for Scotland from April 11-18, 2026! Students, come back to this site in September for opportunities to study in the UK in the coming year.
In collaboration with KSU's Museums, Archives, and Rare Books (MARB), the Year of
the United Kingdom has developed a set of introductory exhibit panels to provide a
general overview of important topics related to the country of study, and to draw
the campus into the Year of the United Kingdom experience. Look for these panels across
campus and test your knowledge with the UK-focused trivia embedded on each piece.
Year of the United Kingdom Logo
In collaboration with KSU's Geer College of the Arts and the School of Art and Design’s Design Practicum course (ART 4030), we are excited to present the iconic Year of the United Kingdom country study logo (seen at the top left of this page). This logo will be used throughout the year to identify official programs that are affiliated with the university-wide focus. Many thanks to Assistant Professor John King and the following seniors who created this design: Jada Dreyfus, Tru Mitchell, Melissa Sandoval-Zavala, and Ariel Zachary. Global Education is proud to feature the work of our young professionals as part of this signature focus at KSU.
