Holiday dinner marks 11-year anniversary
More than 300 students from about 35 countries turned out December 23 at the Nouvel Hôtel and Spa in Montreal for Concordia University’s annual International Students Holiday Party.
Dominique McCaughey, Acting-Vice-President , Advancement and Alumni Relations, kicked off the festivities by welcoming students and university dignitaries, such as Board of Governors Chair Peter Kruyt, David Graham, Concordia Provost and Vice-President, Academic Affairs, and Concordia University Alumni Association board member Ven Virahsammy.
“Tonight’s dinner is unique because it brings together so many cultures in one room and for good reasons—goodwill, great company and great food,” said McCaughey.
The dinner, which was hosted by the Concordia University Alumni Association and Advancement and Alumni Relations, included a hot buffet of international cuisines.
David Graham said he was delighted to attend the event for a second time and wished guests “happy holidays” in more than a dozen languages. “Our gathering this evening is about kinship and goodwill because you really are among family—your Concordia family,” Graham said.
Andrew Mwachiro, a fifth year Mechanical Engineering major from Kenya, said he chose Concordia because it brings together students from all walks of life and offers high-quality education. “The Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at Concordia has an excellent program,” said Mwachiro, who hopes to join an aerospace company after he graduates this year.
“I am also looking into joining a flight school on a part-time basis in the evenings and over the weekends to learn how to fly,” he added.
Peter Kruyt told students they had “worked hard in so many ways” to study at Concordia and adjust to life in Canada. “Tonight, we have students from more than 30 countries, which is truly a testament of our vigorous growth,” Kruyt said.
Related links:
• International Students Holiday Party
• Concordia Alumni Relations