The Knox and Galesburg communities came together in appreciation of the many cultures represented on campus during International Fair 2023. 

This year’s fair, titled “Weddings Around the World,” featured campus events showcasing traditional dress from various countries, discussing wedding traditions, and much more. 

“I-Fair was an engaging experience—I learned so much about other wedding cultures! It also made me proud to be from my country when I was able to perform in the showcase and bear my country's flag, and I am glad to see the Knox community so receptive and supportive of the diversity that makes up part of the Knox experience.” -Selene Chew Chien Huei '26

The week culminated in an array of events on Saturday, January 28, including the International Booth Fair, where student representatives of different countries set up booths to display information and engage in activities with attendees. 

“It’s very exciting. There aren’t many people from Ecuador here, so it feels great to be a part of that representation for anyone coming to Knox. It’s just a really great experience overall.” -Manny Piña Oviedo '23

The day continued with the annual flag parade, where student representatives carried flags down the aisles of Kresge Recital Hall. Flag holders from 40 different countries all met on stage and waved their flags in unison with Director of International Student Services Alex Pia in the center with the Knox College flag.

“The students have done a wonderful job. Students love having the opportunity to share their cultures with other people that are interested. All in all, it’s been a great week and I’m proud to see a great turnout.” -Alex Pia, Director of International Student Services

“This was my first I-Fair and it was amazing. My favorite part was the flag parade. Makes me so happy I chose Knox." -Tim Amiri '26

The cultural showcase saw live student performances displaying cultural dance forms, music, language, and dress. Seating was at full capacity as attendees cheered on the group choreography and solo performances. 

"It was great, everything was so well managed thanks to the International Club executives. I participated in the cultural showcase and this I believe will always be my best memory from this term. I loved everything about it. Can't wait for the next one." -Emaan Sajjad '26

“It was exciting and really fun! The energy was great and the spirit didn't fall off throughout the show. It was amazing.” -Kevin Cox '23 

The day’s events concluded with the International Food Fair in the Hard Knox Café. A buffet prepared by students was available for the campus to enjoy, with flavors from all corners of the world. 

“It makes me feel so proud of my country. It’s so fun to learn about other cultures and be able to engage with their traditions. I’ve learned a lot.” -Paul Flores, '26

International Club Co-President Archi Nokrek was thrilled with the turnout during the week-long celebration. She expressed gratitude to the International Club and all of the cultural organizations and offices that assisted in making International Fair 2023 a success.

"I-Fair has always held a very special place in my heart because of its dedication to showcasing the beautiful parts of all the different cultures on campus. It's like bringing a little piece of the world into Galesburg and I have always found that very beautiful. I was very grateful for the opportunity to be organizing I-Fair with my amazing exec this year. It was a lot of hard work, but seeing Kresge full with a cheering audience made everything worth it.” -Archi Nokrek '24