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Written by Shambhu Sharan, Contributor to The Shorthorn |
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Monday, 06 April 2009 07:51 PM |
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Student Affairs Vice President Frank Lamas congratulated the International Student Organization during the opening speech for organizing the week at UTA and celebrating its 32-year tradition. He said the university values different backgrounds, perspectives, life experiences, beliefs and ideologies. The US News and World Report and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities have recognized UTA for its racial diversity and as a trailblazer in education for Hispanics. Today’s program provided an opportunity to understand various parts of the world, religions and break down misconceptions about some beliefs, Lamas said. “Diversity is essential in the achievement of the university’s academic mission,” he said. “The university recognizes the value of diversity in preparing students for employment upon graduation in the global marketplace,” he said. Julie Holmer, International Student Organization advisor, said 22 students, with 100 organizing committee members, started organizing the event in January. She said she was happy with the parade, dining services, exhibition and Filipino stick dancing, which is similar to jump roping with sticks. Taiwanese Student Association members Peggy Wu and Po Ching showcased their country’s puppets, arts, maps and literature. Music junior Nick Beaudet led the samba band and parade, while ISO vice president Gayatri Desai and psychology sophomore Nicki Chen carried the ISO banner. “Although it was windy and cold, I enjoyed the parade,” Desai said. “The parade was awesome.” Electrical engineering senior Caleb Nothnagle represented Germany because his grandfather is German and he wanted to represent his ancestor’s idealogy. “It was fun,” Nothnagle said. |
http://www.theshorthorn.com/content/view/16654/62/