Arieto fills big dancing shoes
Clarice Ambler, a freshman dual majoring in psychology and Spanish, said when she first came to USU she arrived looking feverishly for opportunities to serve and become more culturally diverse.
When her friend asked her to join in experiencing the annual Areito event held Friday, the Salt Lake City native jumped at the chance and didn’t leave disappointed.
“It was not what I expected, it was more. The acts were diverse, entertaining and informative.” Ambler said. “It was absolutely stunning. It lingered with me.”
Areito is an annual cultural performance gala and charity fundraiser planned, coordinated and performed by the Dominican Student Association.
The evening showcased musical performances, dance numbers, formal presentations and instructional videos in an effort to give more than 400 attendees an opportunity to have a better understanding of the Dominican culture and be a part of a good cause.
“I am very grateful to everyone who worked to get this result,” said Marcelle Cruz, public relations officer for the Dominican Student Association. “Everyone put a lot of effort into showcasing our culture. It was a great experience.”
Fourteen different pieces were performed and presented and dinner was served during the midpoint of the event.
Contributors came primarily from the Dominican community on campus, but Cruz – a master’s student studying structural engineering and native of the Dominican Republic – said several arts groups, Hispanic and American students and a group of students from an entry-level Spanish class took part in the festivities.
“Here at USU, we have a lot of different cultures and students from different countries and groups who have the opportunity to share with one another part of their culture and have a chance to get to know more about the different parts of the world,” said Cesar Hunt, a graduate student studying structural engineering who hosted the festivities. “It was great to welcome others to experience more of our culture and get involved.”
Proceeds from admission to the events will go to Hogar Del Nino, a Dominican based non-profit organization with the mission of creating more educational, hygiene and health benefits for children in the Dominican Republic.
Cruz said she was incredibly pleased with the funds they were able to collect for the cause.
“It was so nice for so many people to help us get more money for this organization. So many kids from our country will be able to benefit from this money,” she said.
Overall, Ambler said her experience cultivated in much more than just a fun night out.
“I already knew the Dominicans were fun, friendly people, but now I understand the depth of their history and the colorfulness of their culture. I left the event wanting to learn more,” she said. “USU should do more events like this. A lot of people don’t realize how truly diverse USU really is.”
Cruz said she was proud of the event for accomplishing the mission she and coordinators had for the event itself as well as the DSA organization.
“We are a very large group of students here and we want to showcase what we love about our country and support our country as much as possible,” she said. “Dominicans are very proud of our traditions and things and we want to spread that around the world. I really think we were able to do that for everyone who came.”
– steve.schwartzman@aggiemail.usu.edu