Event Recap: Tulane’s Welcoming CommUNITY Celebration

The event was an excellent kickoff to the year, hosted by the Office of Academic Excellence & Opportunity and the Carolyn Barber-Pierre Center for Intercultural Life, with support from many campus partners, including Tulane Libraries. From 3 to 7 PM, the campus came alive with inspiring performances, powerful speakers, and great food.

The two keynote speakers were absolutely outstanding. Sunni Patterson, a New Orleans native poet, captivated the audience with her evocative blend of local heritage, culture, and spirituality, delivering poetry that was not only beautiful but deeply political and moving. Amanda Nguyen, a remarkable civil rights activist and social entrepreneur, shared her inspiring journey, from drafting landmark legislation to becoming the first woman of Vietnamese heritage to fly to space. Her passion and impact left a lasting impression on everyone present.

The atmosphere was made even more special by the lively line dancing that stretched into the glowing dusk, creating a joyous sense of community. Attendees enjoyed delicious treats from the Pick Your Own Snowball food truck. They indulged in the famous crawfish étouffée dawgs from Diva Dawg, adding a flavorful local touch to the celebration.

Overall, the event was a powerful blend of culture and fun; a true celebration of Tulane’s commitment to inclusivity and community.

Published 9-22-2025