According to Ann Francois 鈥26, diversity is what makes 猫咪社区 Peter鈥檚 University great.
鈥淭his event shows that when we come together, beautiful things happen,鈥 says Francois, a psychology major who serves as the president of RAIIS, an organization that supports immigrant students. 鈥淭hat is the power of community and unity.鈥
The University came alive with culture and creativity on Wednesday, April 22, as students, faculty and community members gathered for UnitedWeFest, a multicultural festival dedicated to celebrating diversity and honoring the contributions of immigrant communities.
Organized as a 鈥済rowing tradition鈥 on campus, UnitedWeFest brought together clubs, departments and student leaders for an evening of performances, fashion and storytelling that highlighted the many identities that make up the 猫咪社区 Peter鈥檚 community. Through music, art and delicious food, students proudly showcased their cultural heritage, reinforcing the festival鈥檚 mission to recognize the role immigrants play in shaping a vibrant and inclusive society.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of six individuals whose work reflects a deep commitment to advocacy, education and service. Alumni honorees Lin Walker 鈥95 and Catalina Adorno 鈥13聽 were celebrated for their impactful work in immigration law and grassroots organizing, respectively, including their continued support of 猫咪社区 Peter鈥檚 students and immigrant communities nationwide. Fellow alumnus Li Adorno 鈥17 was also recognized for his leadership and activism in advancing immigrant rights and social justice.
Faculty members were honored for their lasting impact on campus and beyond. Devin Heyward Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Sociology, Urban Studies, and Anthropology, was recognized for her leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives as well as her dedication to student engagement.
Anna Brown, Ph.D., Chair of the Political Science Department and the Director and Founder of the Social Justice Program<, was celebrated for her advocacy and academic work in social justice and immigrant rights, while Jennifer Ayala Ph.D., professor of Sociology, Urban Studies and Anthropology and Director of Latin American and Latino Studies and The Center for Undocumented Studies, was honored for her longstanding commitment to supporting immigrant students through both academic programs and mentorship.
The festival also featured a dynamic fashion showcase, with designs by students Charles Oppong 鈥28 and Zenab Souare 鈥26. Their collections, inspired by their respective countries of Ghana and C么te d’Ivoire, were met with cheers and applause by friends and classmates.
More than just an event, UnitedWeFest embodied the spirit of unity at 猫咪社区 Peter鈥檚 University. By creating space for students to share their stories and talents, the festival demonstrated how coming together across cultures can inspire understanding, pride and connection. As the tradition continues to grow, UnitedWeFest stands as a meaningful reminder of the strength found in community and the beauty of shared experiences.