Friendship Foundation for International Students

Mission Statement

The Friendship Foundation for International Students (FFIS) is a nonprofit organization that exists to bridge cultures and to promote world peace and understanding through international friendship, personal diplomacy, and exchange of ideas.

Through our programs and activities, FFIS builds trust and fosters goodwill between the local community and University of Oregon international students, alumni, scholars, and their families.

 

Who We Are

The Friendship Foundational for International Students was founded in 1950 under the leadership of University of Oregon faculty members and community leaders. The leadership is composed of a volunteer steering committee that oversees FFIA activities and programs. During the school year, the steering committee meets on the first Wednesday of each month. If you are interested in a leadership position with FFIS, please contact us for more information.

The University of Oregon endorses FFIS and dedicates staff time and limited financial support through the Office of International Affairs to support FFIS programs and activities for international students and scholars. The majority of FFIS funding comes from individual voluntary donations.

Read “A Brief History of FFIS” on FFIS up until the early 2000’s.

Governance

FFIS is governed by an all-volunteer Steering Committee which meets monthly during the academic year. The Steering Committee is responsible for all volunteer recruitment, orientation and retention, oversight of the organization’s mission, policies and procedures, and collaboration with the UO’s office of International Affairs.