Unveiling event.
Headlines (News Releases)
Laurier International
Hall of Nations to reflect Laurier’s culturally diverse student body
Communications, Public Affairs & Marketing
Oct 27/10| For Immediate Release
| Contact: | Adam Lawrence, Manager, Diversity & Equity Office |
| or | Lise Pedersen, Manager of Programs and Services, Laurier International |
WATERLOO – Wilfrid Laurier University plans to establish a Hall of Nations at its Waterloo campus to represent the diversity of Laurier’s student community. Flags from approximately 70 countries will be installed in Laurier’s Dining Hall at an event Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 4 p.m.
The Laurier community is invited to attend the official unveiling. Speakers will include David McMurray, vice-president of student affairs, Lise Pedersen, manager of programs and services for Laurier International, and Adam Lawrence, manager of the Diversity & Equity Office. A reception will follow.
“The Hall of Nations acknowledges the country of origin of our entire student body,” said Lawrence. “Being an inclusive community involves celebrating and educating all individuals at Laurier, and we hope this initiative will be a positive addition to the Laurier culture.”
The Hall of Nations is a joint effort between the Diversity & Equity Office and Laurier International. It received support from centennial funding and the Special Initiatives Fund.
“The university is already home to students from over 65 nations, and recognizing the diversity on campus is important to the Laurier community,” said Pedersen. “We plan to host an annual event to welcome international students and to celebrate the cultural and national diversity of Laurier’s student body.”
Supporting Laurier’s international students is a key focus for the university. In fall 2010, Laurier International, in partnership with the Centre for Intercultural Learning, established an Intercultural Effectiveness Certificate Program (IECP) designed to strengthen the intercultural abilities and knowledge of the Laurier community. It is being delivered through workshops facilitated by Laurier International, the Diversity & Equity Office, the Student Leadership Centre and Career Services. For more information, please visit the Oct. 5, 2010 press release.
