Celebrating Cultures and Customs at Global Enrichment Fest

University School of Milwaukee held its annual Global Enrichment Fest on Monday, March 13, where students in all divisions explored cultures, customs, and cuisines from around the world. The event occupied both the Middle School and Upper School gymnasiums, as well as the Quadracci Lobby. It featured brightly decorated booths representing countries from around the world, created and occupied by volunteers who spoke with students about the country and answered questions. A new time format this year, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., enabled more parents and guardians to visit and enjoy the event.

Guests enjoyed a variety of performances from dancers and musicians—both student and professional. Select student performances included the Philippine Tiklining Bamboo Dance, a Mariachi performance, and Middle School and Upper School band, orchestra, and choir performances. Visiting performers included Japanese drums by the Milwaukee Taiko Group Hibiki, Celtic Nation Pipes and Drums, Safire Belly Dancers of Chicago, Bollywood Blasters, Ko-Thi Dance Company, and more. In total, there were nearly two dozen unique performances showcasing music and dance from around the world, along with 35 country booths in the Global Village and a sampling of foods from nearly 30 countries in the Global Café.

The event was made possible by USM’s Parents’ Association and the many volunteers who shared samples of traditional cuisines, spoke about their family’s heritages, brought cultural artifacts from around the world, and introduced students to different customs and traditions. Many thanks to all who volunteered, and especially to Sara Manning and Renee Mondano, co-chairs of the PA’s Global Enrichment Fest committee.