USD Students Celebrate Diversity at International Expo & Cultural Fashion Show

A medley of delicious food, vibrant music and illuminating dance performances highlighted the International Expo & Cultural Fashion Show in the Hahn University Center on Fri., March 17. 

The event, hosted by the International Student Organization (ISO), has been an annual tradition at USD for more than 35 years. 

“The event is all about celebrating diversity and sharing culture,” explains USD student and ISO board member Ahmed Albattal. “The USD student body has the opportunity to represent their culture and country by wearing its national dress and walking in the fashion show.” 

Each year, traditional garments used in the show are donated from graduating students so that incoming students can feel represented on campus. 

“The event is a great way for international students to represent, celebrate and share their culture with other students, and to promote diversity on the USD campus,” says Albattal. 

The ISO’s goal is to “act as a support group and represent international students at USD, cater to their needs throughout their time at USD and to help them adjust to life in the US and to USD.” 

— Story by Matthew Piechalak