College of Idaho readies for annual Cultural Show

The College of Idaho student body is as diverse as the crops grown in Canyon County. With 81 international students representing 46 countries—including Norway, Venezuela, Swaziland, and Barbados—the C of I is home to a surprisingly robust international population.

And on Nov. 13, the international students will share their talents and cultures with the community as the C of I presents its fourth annual International Student Organization Cultural Show at 7 p.m. inside Jewett Auditorium on the C of I campus in Caldwell. The show is free and open to the public.

“The ISO cultural show is one of the most celebrated events on campus,” said Isfandiyor Abdullo, ISO president. “This event doesn't show our difference. In fact, it shows how similar we all are despite coming from different backgrounds.”

The Cultural Show audience will experience different cultures through African storytelling, Bollywood dance, South African Hip-Hop and more as the College highlights diversity within its campus community. The show will feature 17 performances of poetry, music and dances from students’ homelands.

“I think it is important to understand that we live in a diverse world,” said Arnold Hernandez, director of multicultural affairs at the C of I. “Diversity enhances social development and prepares students for the real world — it prepares them to become global thinkers.”

For more info, contact Abdullo at isfandiyor.abdullo@yotes.collegeofidaho.edu, or call (208) 459-5868.T