Connecting Culture: A Peek into International Convocation

By: Jenevive Won '26

The rich West African drum beats echoed through the theater as students and faculty started shuffling into their seats, getting ready to immerse themselves in Cate's annual International Convocation. From traditional instrumentals to K-pop dances, an endless diversity of cultures filled the room. 

Sixteen countries under one roof. International Convocation is a night when students are able to share bits and pieces of their home with the rest of the school. The HLA put on a lively dance, Kimy Zhang ‘27 played the guzheng, a traditional Chinese instrument, while Mo Kanda-Gleeson ‘26 and Emi Kanda-Gleeson ‘27 performed taiko drumming, and many more. These unique productions made for an educating and entertaining night for all. 

Oftentimes, being at boarding school can make students feel as though they are disconnected from their culture and their home. “Whenever I come back to school, I always long for little things that remind me of home, like getting sushi with my friends or biking through the busy city,” Nika Iverson ‘26 says. Without opportunities to speak their native language or see themselves represented in the community, students can feel isolated when they're far from home and their familiar customs. Engaging in this convocation allowed students to build or reconnect to traditions and to share a part of their identity with the rest of the school. This version of “show and tell” enables the community to further develop cultural awareness and global interconnectivity.

Dimash Anuarbek ‘26, an International Club Head from Kazakhstan, was one of the MCs for the night. When asked about how he felt running the show, he mentioned feeling proud that he was able to help organize a space where people could open up and celebrate their backgrounds. This sense of pride continued with the performers as well. Ramya Bangaru ‘26 performed her outstanding Carnatic singing for the third year. When reflecting on her experience, Ramya recalled, “The song I performed, ‘Sarasijanabha,’ praises Lord Vishnu and his lotus-like beauty. Singing this song connected me to my culture while also letting me express myself.” 

John Knecht, the Instrumental Music Director and Chair of the Performing Arts Department, was the backbone behind all of this. He described International Convo as “an amazing opportunity for us to share the diverse voices of our school community through music and dance,” also adding that he “feels like this is more than just a regular performance or convocation. The night is a special reminder that Cate students come from so many walks of life and each of these locales has unique art forms that shape students' identities.” Although culture is the main theme of the convocation, community is another message that is conveyed through these performances. Holding an annual convocation where students can share their background and individuality with the greater Cate community builds deeper relationships and connections among the students and faculty as they learn from one another.

The blend of Chinese folk, Korean dap, Irish Dancing, Mexican banda, and more, created a vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy.