Foreword by Dr. Nojin Kwak, International Education

On behalf of the Office of International Education, I am pleased to write this foreword for a unique collection of recipes that exemplifies our university community’s diversity and creativity. What better way to foster community than by sharing foods that reflect our cultural traditions and commitment to hospitality? My thanks to our University Libraries colleagues for putting together this exciting and interesting sampling of UB recipes.

Each November, as part of our celebration of International Education Week (IEW), we typically have multiple occasions in which to share and celebrate UB’s varied cuisines with the larger community. Our students, faculty, and staff all enjoy partaking in such opportunities which offer an intimate and enjoyable way to participate in another culture. Food-sharing events are truly a highlight of IEW and many other special events at UB!

Flavors of Unity is a collection of particularly notable recipes from a dozen cultures well represented at UB. Whether a signature dish or not, each of the recipes in this global cookbook not only appeals to the palate but expresses the cultural richness of our university.

In its own way, this “Library of Recipes” reminds us of the university’s core mission of sharing and co-creating knowledge, and the importance of collaboration across diversity in undertaking that mission.

May UB continue to be enriched by our diverse contributions, and may IEW continue to remind us of the importance of cultural exchange through food, art, music, language, and many other media.

I hope you enjoy trying these recipes out for yourself and sharing them with family and friends. Be sure to look for food-sampling opportunities during IEW!

Dr. Nojin Kwak
Vice Provost for International Education