About ICEC
A Historical Perspective
In early 1989, the Gainesville Indian Community was thrust into the midst of a mini crisis. Within a short space of two weeks, three students of Indian origin had tragically decided to end their precious lives. From the pangs of this despair and despondency, rose the concept of ICEC. Several key members of the local Indian community, Drs. Dinesh Shah and Rasik Nagda being prominent among them, formed the India Cultural and Education Center, or ICEC.
Mission & Purpose
Assist students of Indian heritage for fulfillment of their cultural and educational aspirations
Create a support network of students, faculty and community of Indian heritage to assist in times of emotional stress and crises
Provide opportunities to youth of Indian heritage to congregate, co-operate and contribute
Provide academic guidance to students seeking careers in various fields
Provide emergency financial assistance, scholarships and zero-interest loans to needy students
Promote Indo-US cultural interaction by organizing and participating in cultural and educational programs
Provide opportunity to its members to contribute towards the betterment of the community-at-large
Administrative Structure
Governed by an elected 15-member Executive Board
Board office bearers - President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer
Categories of membership: Donor Member (donation of $5,000 or more); Founding Member (donation of $1,000 - $4,999); Regular Member (payment of $100 annual dues); Associate Member (students); and Honorary Member
The Indian Student Association (ISA) and Indian Graduate Students Association (IGSA) of the University of Florida nominate ICEC student liaisons every year.
ICEC Donor/Founding Members...
Facilities
Located at 1115 SW 13th Street, Gainesville, FL, the ICEC building is within walking distance of the UF campus. The two-story, 15,000 sq. ft. building sits on a 2.6 acre wooded lot and consists of a 10,000 sq. ft. auditorium, a stage with curtains, projection screen, lights and sound system, a food-warming facility, and four rooms for multiple use.
Student groups registered with the University of Florida (ISA, IGSA, ASHA, SPICMACAY and CHiTra) can rent the hall on weekends for cultural and recreational purposes. They can use upstairs rooms on weekends at no cost with prior arrangement.
Activities organized & sponsored by ICEC
Education:
SAT review classes; Geography Bee classes - these are conducted by external instructors upon request
Academic advisement/career guidance by UF faculty & staff
Continuing Medical Education seminars
Annual Health Fair - Free health education for the community
Cultural:
Celebration of India's Republic Day & Independence Day
Youth Group celebrations for Diwali/Eid/Christmas
Musical concert as multi-faith tribute to Mahatma Gandhi
Live music and dance programs arranged by Indian students
Lectures by invited cultural & religious leaders
India Fest: Annual Indian Food and Cultural Festival