HSU Celebrates Unity With International Week

February 4, 2019 Lucila Decia, Staff Writer

(Abilene,TX)—Every year international week takes place at Hardin-Simmons to celebrate diversity, embrace culture, and praise the unity of the HSU family. This year from Feb 5-9, HSU invites all students, faculty, and staff to the different events organized by the Global Engagement Office and the international students. Almost 70 students from over 25 countries make HSU home, so Hardin-Simmons dedicates a special week to learn about their heritage and stories.

“What we are doing this week is to celebrate diversity and the unity of this family,” said Grey Hoff, associate vice president for Global Engagement.

The schedule for this week includes a variety of activities, and everyone can join and participate. The celebration began on Tuesday with a special international chapel service. Then on Tuesday night, there was be a night of worship.

What international students are excited for is ‘Taste of the World.’ Students sign up to prepare a traditional dish from their country and share it with those present. There will also be a soccer match, and a conference to discuss and raise awareness for diversity and culture.

Here is a breakdown of the week’s agenda:

-Feb. 6, 12:00 p.m.

International Buffet

Moody Dining Hall will host a special buffet with a variety of international dishes. The menu will include cuisine from different parts of the world: Hispanic dishes, like carne guisada, thai chicken, Vietnamese noodle soup, baked tonkatsu, and many more. Students can use their meal plan, or pay a $5 charge.

-Feb. 7, 6:00 p.m.

Conversations of Diversity

“There are going to be some international students speaking, trying to open up a dialogue between students, faculty, and staff. It is a good opportunity for everyone to join together, something that sometimes does not happen,” said McKenna Hammack, international student advisor.

To raise awareness of the variety of cultures and realities of international students, a conversation will be held at the Connally Missions Center. At the meeting, five students from different backgrounds will talk about diversity, culture, and traditions. Those present will have the opportunity to ask questions to the panel and learn about different global perspectives.

-Feb. 8, 6:00 p.m.

Taste of the World & International Opportunities Fair

For this event, students from different countries will prepare a buffet with their own traditional dishes and share them with those present. Every country will have a table to exhibit their food. The event is also a good opportunity for those who are interested in serving in missions and traveling to get more information about those opportunities.

-Feb. 9, 12:00 p.m.

International Soccer Match

Everyone is invited to join the soccer match organized by international students. Attendees can also meet the HSU soccer team, watch the game, or have food from the food trucks next to the soccer field. If interested in joining the match, click here or contact Steven Barnas at steven.a.barnas@hsutx.edu.

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