There are four original International Houses—in Berkeley, Chicago, New York, and Paris—all built with funds provided by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., at the suggestion of Harry Edmonds, a YMCA official. Both men believed that if American and international students could live, work and study together in a comfortable multicultural environment this would lead to friendships and increased international understanding. Today, Chicago’s International House is part of a consortium of 15 International Houses that are separate, independent, nonprofit institutions which span four continents and are united by one mission. Since International House at the University of Chicago first opened its doors in 1932, it has provided a “home away from home” for over 42,000 individuals from around the world.