Every spring, the Cultural Extravaganza — the biggest student-led event at Newman University — comes to life for Wichita to enjoy.
The student club Multicultural Leadership Organization (MCLO) celebrated its seventh year of the fan-favorite Cultural Extravaganza event on Saturday, March 23, on Founders Plaza at Newman University. Musical and dance performances, local business booths, a cultural buffet and kid-friendly minigames showcased activities for people of all ages to enjoy.
“The Cultural Extravaganza is held each year to support MCLO’s three core values: unity, cultural awareness and leadership,” Natalie Trigo, president of MCLO, said. “It’s a big accomplishment because it really takes a whole community-wide team effort to put together.”
Newman students Isabella Callaba of Louisiana and Aiden Coffelt of Oklahoma were particularly excited for the campus-wide extravaganza.
Sophomore Coffelt loved the event so much during her first year at Newman, she marked her calendar early to ensure her return.
“It’s amazing to see everyone come and get involved,” Coffelt said. “I think they do a great job of putting it on. The food is great, the performances are great and everyone enjoys themselves.”
Callaba, a freshman, heard from upperclassmen that there would be food and a show. She was hooked.
“Seeing a lot of people participating in the event shows, we want to appreciate and explore different cultures around the world,” Callaba said.
Current students weren’t the only guests in attendance — several alumni including Britney Ma, Talia Powers and Michelle Tong also made appearances. Ma said she wouldn’t miss the event for the world.
“I know how much work it takes to be a part of this and to organize the whole event,” Ma said. “There’s a sense of pride to see them doing such good work and it’s a bit nostalgic. On the other side, it’s so nice to come back and enjoy the event as a guest.”
Trigo credits her team of student leaders in MCLO for the event’s success as well as club advisor Katherine Reynoso, director of multicultural engagement and campus life.
“Katherine was always there, 24/7 whenever we had questions,” Trigo said. “She has a lot of connections to the community and helped us secure performers, donors and food. Katherine went way above and beyond and made this year really special.”
Several local groups and individual performers added to the vibrant campus experience. MCLO would like to thank the following for donating their time and talents:
- Mariachi Imperial De Kansas
- East High Lion Dance
- Gabe Trevino
- Hunter Lough
- KVersity
- Joel Rosario
- Wichita State University’s Vietnamese Student Association Dance Team
- Asian Student Conference Dance Team
- Jean Byamunugu
- Asher Khokhar
- Los Matachines
- Ballet Folklorico Mexico En El Corazon
- Maria Caro
- Corry Academy of Irish Dance
I think they do a great job of putting it on. The food is great, the performances are great and everyone enjoys themselves.
Student Aiden Coffelt
Giveaway prizes for guests featured baskets, gift cards and specialty items from businesses including Chick-fil-A; Texas Roadhouse; Grace Market; Kendra Scott; Crafted: Coffee, Tea, Poké; Kung Fu Tea; and Andy’s Frozen Custard.
Trigo added, “We hope everyone enjoyed their time, and we hope to see you all again next year.”
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