Students and Faculty celebrating this year’s World Languages Week gathered in Eben Holden on Saturday, March 30 for Kaleidoscope, the final event of the week. The annual event showcases the talents and influences of students from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds.
This year, Kaleidoscope featured performances such as singing, dancing, instrumentals and a fashion show from students identifying with over 15 countries, as well as food reflecting a variety of countries and cultures. The event started at 7 p.m. on Saturday and was free and open to the public.
Iman Maani ’22 participated in the fashion show section of Kaleidoscope. “Kaleidoscope reflected the amazing talents that every student has on campus,” Maani said. “I didn’t even know some of these students who were performing had these incredible talents of dancing and singing, and it was a great time, seeing all of these cultures come together.”
“Kaleidoscope is a standout event and highlight of the year” director of Student Activities and Leadership John Robert O’Connor told University Communications. “It showcases talents from many of our students involved in so many different groups across campus. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness of our campus community members.”
Kaleidoscope was founded by St. Lawrence alumnus Victor Kai-Rogers ’08. Originally from Freetown, Sierra Leone, Kai-Rogers started the event in 2006 to “highlight the rich cultural diversity in the fabric of St. Lawrence,” according to the first event’s mission statement. It has been an annual event ever since, celebrating its 13th year in 2019.
Caitlyn Malia ’21 attended the event and thought that the spirit of the event was felt by the audience. “Kaleidoscope is an opportunity to smile and get beautiful glimpses into different international cultures,” Malia said.
The event wrapped up World Languages Week, a week dedicated to international experiences, learning languages and exposing St. Lawrence students to different cultures. Other events of World Languages Week included International Karaoke Night, Trivia Night in Pub 56 and the SLU International Iron Chef Competition.
The event was sponsored by the International House, the Language Resource Center, the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, the Center for International and Intercultural Studies, International Student Services, the Thelomathesian Society, and the Association for Campus Entertainment.
Outfits for the fashion show portion of Kaleidoscope were also provided by St. Lawrence’s Costume Shop.