ST. CLOUD - St. Cloud State University celebrated international engagement and different cultures on campus with a free international celebration on Wednesday.

Hundreds of students, staff and members of the community visited the Atwood Memorial Center Ballroom for the event. Those who attended were able to learn about many different cultures and languages on display.

Lisa Splittgerber is the Department Chair for Languages and Cultures at SCSU, she says it's crucial for students to expose themselves to different languages and culture in todays global economy.

"We are now part of a global economy and it's more important than ever for students to learn how to communicate in languages other than english," Splittgerber says.

St. Cloud State President Earl Potter spoke at the event, saying that international students bring a different perspective to all students on campus.

"Our international students add vibrancy to our academic community," Potter says.

Nonprofit group Barefoot Africa was also at the event, the group aims to assist people living in remote villages in Africa by providing them with donated shoes or clothing. Mohamed Toure with Barefoot Africa says they hoped to raise local awareness by attending the event today.

"The main purpose of todays event is to get in touch with the community," Toure says.

Presentations, performances and mini-culture lessons were all available to attendees. More information on St. Cloud State and its international program can be found on it's website.

 

SCSU International Celebration
Dan DeBaun, WJON News
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Flags on display at SCSU International Celebration
Dan DeBaun, WJON News
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