The University of Nevada, Reno will host the eighth biennial meeting of the International Academy for Intercultural Research, June 23 through 27. The academy is an interdisciplinary society of scholars who study issues related to intercultural and international issues. This year's conference theme is "Pushing the Frontiers of Intercultural Research: Asking Critical Questions."

University Executive Vice President and Provost Kevin Carman will welcome the scholars at the opening session at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, June 23 at the Center for Molecular Medicine on the north-end of the University campus. All other sessions will be held at Harrah's Hotel and Casino Conference Center in downtown Reno.  

"The academy brings together some of the best researchers in the world on intercultural issues," said Jennifer Mahon, associate professor in the College of Education and host of the conference. "Some of the founders in the fields of intercultural psychology, communication and sociology will be among the many participants. The conference presents an incredible opportunity for both the founders and those working on the cutting-edge of issues such as ethnic conflict, immigration and global markets to discuss these concerns."  

The keynote speaker on Monday, June 24 is Michael Prosser who will discuss the development of intercultural communication in the United States and China. On Monday evening, John Berry of Queen's University Canada, one of the founders of Acculturation Theory, will speak on 40 years of immigration history in Canada. Tuesday, after receiving the academy's Lifetime Achievement Award, Emeritus Professor at Indiana University David Heise will discuss how feelings cross cultures. A special presentation on international issues related to human trafficking will be given by William Brunson of the National Judicial College at 4 p.m. on Wednesday.