Culture Night at LB: International students hold event celebrating international culture

The “A” Team of International Ambassadors is creating an International Culture Night on May 4 in Takena Hall and the Russell Tripp Theater.

“I hope it’ll be a small but great step for everyone to feel cultures and reach out to the world,” said Erika Iizuka,” an ambassador from Japan.

“Emily” My Tran, from Vietnam, designed the marketing poster and is helping to organize the event, with help from Kim Sullivan and Julia Larsen. Tran will be in the fashion show portion of the evening, modeling a native outfit from her country. There will be approximately eight other models from various countries as well as other singers and performers.

“A Celtic dance group, piano player, magician and Hula dancer will be there,” said Sullivan. She has also been taking care of the programs and spearheading the advertisement through social media to ensure it will be a smooth flowing and joyful experience for everyone.

Tran came to the United States in September 2015 and has been working in the International Office since January 2016. This will be her last term here. When she graduates, she will leave with three degrees: one in business, one in computer science, and one in general studies. She plans to take a summer break and return to her country for two months. She is still deciding which university she will attend next fall.

Tran wanted to thank Sullivan for being the lead organizer of this event. “I like her passion, when she works with the students she helps them with all of her heart. She is not just showing up to work, that’s why I feel like she is a family member. I think that’s why students like her, they feel comfortable sharing their stuff with her and she always helps the students. That’s why she is always busy. She has been working a lot for this event and we really hope it is going to be successful,” said Tran. Tran definitely takes after her mentor.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the event begins at 6 p.m. The first hour will provide an opportunity to explore international cultures through interactions with representatives from a variety of local organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to try samples of international foods and learn about other languages and cultures. At 7 p.m., the show will start, with a variety of acts showcasing international talent and culture followed by a brief fashion show of traditional outfits from various countries.

Additional Admission:
Free Admission
International Culture Night & Fashion Show
May 4, 2018
Tripp Theater, Albany Campus
Event starts at 6 p.m.
Show starts 7 p.m.
ipambassador@linnbenton.edu