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Culture & Heritage Day honors the pursuit of a better life

Culture & Heritage Day honors the pursuit of a better life

by Shannon Dufresne
 

Pictured above (L-R): Seniors Daniela G, from Venezuela, and Chloe E, from Australia, shared their stories about emigrating to the United States during Ursuline's annual Culture & Heritage Day celebration.

On March 26, Ursuline’s World Language Department hosted its highly anticipated Celebration of Culture & Heritage event, where storytelling, family heritage, and mastery of the Italian language intertwined to create a truly unforgettable experience. The celebration culminated in an Italian 3/3H class assignment, effectively bridging cultural gaps and fostering a sense of unity within the school community. 

Over the past few years, this event has served as much more than an academic exercise, becoming a moving tribute to the challenges and triumphs of those who charted a path to a new life in the United States. World Language Department Chair Mrs. Francesca LaGumina explains, “Students are tasked with interviewing family members or friends who had immigrated to the U.S., translating their personal accounts into Italian subtitles, and then presenting these enlightening narratives to a captive audience in the Auriana Theater.” 

Senior Daniela G addresses the audience during Culture & Heritage Day on March 26, 2025.


World Languages Teacher Mrs. Adriana Delucia adds, “The Celebration of Culture event is very special. Although the speakers have different backgrounds and stories, there is a common theme: they all moved to America hoping for a better future for the next generation, something we can all take inspiration from.”

Chloe E ‘25, an AP Italian Language & Culture student who moved to the United States from Australia, spoke about her personal experience, sharing: “As an immigrant, I didn't think I would find anyone who could relate to my experiences, but it turns out some of my classmates share similar stories. Ursuline has taught me to appreciate the things that make us unique, and this culture celebration encourages exactly that.”

As an immigrant, I didn't think I would find anyone who could relate to my experiences, but it turns out some of my classmates share similar stories." 
- Chloe '25

 

Chloe E '25 shares her experience moving to the United States from Australia.


One of the most powerful stories came from Mr. Lajos Janny P’17, who captivated the audience with his harrowing account of escaping Hungary during the final years of the Communist regime. His journey as a refugee seeking asylum in the U.S. embodied the courage and determination that define the immigrant experience. Janny’s daughter, Erika ‘17, was also in attendance, emphasizing the importance of preserving and passing down these stories to future generations. Many audience members felt inspired to share their own experiences, creating a beautiful tapestry of voices that enriched the theme of heritage and resiliency.

Mr. Lajos Janny P'17, shown here with his daugher Erika '17, describes his escape from Hungary.


A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when two families discovered they were long-lost relatives. LaGumina shared her excitement, saying, “Two different families in attendance realized they are cousins and shared stories with one another in hope that they will keep in touch. It was really special.”


The celebration concluded with a delightful reception in Ursuline’s Gabelli Library, where guests indulged in a diverse selection of international cuisine. This culinary experience was another reminder of the beauty of cultural exchange and the traditions that continue to shape the school’s tight-knit community. The event was a poignant moment that, despite our varied backgrounds, united all involved by the common desire for a brighter future. The memorable stories shared will surely inspire generations to come.

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