Campus
Academics
Community
Now in its fourth year, the event has evolved from what was formally known as the International Food and Culture Fair. While Global Fest in September highlights international dishes, the International Showcase focuses on cultural performances and interactive country displays.
Brenda Sigler, immigration and advising coordinator for International Programs and Services, said the event provides Pitt State students the opportunity to share their talents and cultures with fellow students and the Pittsburg community.
“It’s an evening dedicated to celebrating global cultures through performances and country displays by students from around the world,” said Sigler.
This year, attendees can expect performances from around the globe, from a variety of cultures and experiences. The stage program will include instrumental music, vocal performances, and dance in the Linda and Lee Scott Performance Hall. Following the performances, students will host interactive country displays in the lobby with photographs, artifacts, and games, along with crowd favorites such as origami and henna painting.
“Guests can look forward to a colorful and energetic evening featuring a variety of musical and dance performances representing home cultures,” said Sigler.“The live performances are always a highlight, as they bring together music, dance, and traditions from around the world in a shared space.”
Tickets are $5 when purchased in advance online. Children age 5 and under are free and do not require a ticket. Advance tickets are also available at the International Office, 118 Whitesitt Hall, Monday–Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets may also be purchased at the door the day of the event, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Bicknell Center.
For many students, the showcase is deeply personal.
Aagaman Bajracharya, a senior biology major from Nepal and vice president of ISA, said his involvement comes from his own experience adjusting to life in a new country.
“As an international student, I understand how challenging it can be to adjust to a new country, culture, and education system, Bajracharya said. “I got involved with the International Student Association because I wanted to help create a supportive community for international students and give them a space where they feel represented, welcomed, and heard on campus.”
He described the showcase as a celebration of cultures from around the world all in one place, adding that it is a welcoming and energetic event where people can learn about cultures they may not be familiar with, while having a great time.
“It is always exciting to see new countries represented and to watch students confidently share their culture on stage or through food and activities,’’ he said.
Favour Bassey, a master’s student in communication from Nigeria, also mentioned the energy and connection the showcase brings to the campus and community. She participated in last year’s event and is involved in ISA as a content creator for the organization’s social media.
“The International Showcase is an event where you experience a gleam from other countries around the world,” she said.
As part of the African Student Association, she is eager to return to the stage.
“I am excited about our dance performance and watching other countries perform for the showcase,” she said. “I am looking forward to the dances, food, and singing, if any other countries are doing it.”
Beyond the performances and displays, both students highlighted the broader impact of this event.
“Events like the International Showcase matter because they promote understanding, inclusion, and connection,” Bajracharya said. “They help bring students, faculty, and community members together and encourage people to appreciate cultural differences. For international students, it is also a chance to feel proud of where they come from and feel truly included on campus.”
Bassey repeated the feeling.
“The showcase is an important event for the campus and community to experience cultures from around the world,” she said. “It gives international students here at Pitt the opportunity to represent their culture and countries.”
Event organizers feel the connection, stating that student pride and cultural storytelling are what makes the evening especially meaningful.
Sigler noted that the event is open to not only students, faculty and staff, but also to families, alumni, and community members.
“By attending the International Showcase, community members demonstrate their support for international students while fostering cross-cultural understanding,” she said.
First-time attendees are encouraged to arrive early, explore each country's displays, and take time to talk with students about their culture.
“Being open, curious, and willing to ask questions will make the experience more meaningful,” Sigler said.
As the showcase comes closer and ISA continues final preparations, one thing remains certain: the International Showcase will once again transform the campus into a vibrant celebration of global pride, talent, and connection in one unforgettable evening.
Story by Kaylee Dillow | Student Communication Intern
