By Elijah Penn, Copyeditor
Saint Leo University has always strived to be a welcoming space for students from all around the world.
On April 22, Center for Global Engagement hosted “International Student Gala,” the first of what is planned to be a yearly celebration of the international students who bring their unique cultures and perspectives to the university. The event was held in the Wellness Center.
“[The event] showed me that the university truly values its students and takes pride in its diversity. That was really nice to see,” said Clio Chatelain, an international student from Haiti studying digital communications as a sophomore.
While the Gala celebrated all international students, this year’s highlight was The Bahamas. Remarks were made by special guests Chilean Burrow, deputy permanent secretary of the Ministry of Education and Technical & Vocational Training in Nassau, and Tyson McKenzie, consul general of The Bahamas. Additionally, the opening performance was a dance by the Tropics Dance Team.
Performances featured various cultures represented by students at Saint Leo, including an appearance by both the 2026 Mr. And Ms. CSA (Caribbean Student Association). Most performances showcased cultural dances, but there was also an original poem reading and cultural or bilingual songs.
“I really enjoyed the cultural performances, especially the Indian performance. It was very entertaining and well done,” said Chatelain.
Being so far away from home can be difficult for students, especially when they must adapt to a new culture. However, this does not mean that they can’t keep the flavors of their homeland alive.
Chatelain stays connected to her roots at Saint Leo by listening to Haitian music, eating cultural dishes, speaking French and Creole with others, and even through the social media she consumes.
“Life here is definitely different from back home. The environment, the way people interact, and even the education system are not the same. It took some time to adjust, but it also helped me grow and become more open-minded,” said Chatelain.
While international students may face challenges navigating their new culture, the campus has a community of students growing together and facing whatever obstacles come their way together. The diversity of Saint Leo is perhaps its greatest asset.
“The university does a good job creating a sense of community for international students,” said Chatelain. “You meet people from so many different backgrounds, and you get to learn from them in many ways.”
This unity, despite differences in culture, was on full display at the Gala. Students were given a space to celebrate and be proud of who they are, and who they’ve become on their journey.
“I was really happy to represent my country. It felt good to finally have an event I could relate to” Chatelain said.”
“Being surrounded by other students who also left their homes made it feel like we all share a similar experience. At the end of the day, Saint Leo becomes what you make of it,” Chatelain concluded.
