More than 150 language students from eight elementary, middle and high schools across the region visited Murray State University on March 14 for the 47th annual Global Languages Showcase, hosted by the Department of Global Languages and Theatre Arts.
The Global Languages Showcase is an opportunity to feature students’ developing language and culture skills on the University’s campus. Throughout the morning, visiting students observed and participated in a variety of fun and competitive activities highlighting world languages and cultures. As part of the ongoing competition, students described and discussed — in the target languages — the cultural, artistic or historical significance of projects and performances they prepared for the showcase. An optional “varsity” level for projects also offered a higher level of competition and prestige for top language students.
Additional activities at the showcase included hands-on “culture tables,” which encouraged students to expand their knowledge and appreciation for world cultures and languages. Students also enjoyed making traditional Mexican handicrafts and practicing Japanese calligraphy.
Visiting students had the opportunity to talk with current University students about their Racer experience inside and outside of the language department.
“By hosting the Global Languages Showcase, we are strengthening connections between Murray State and area language teachers and students,” said Cindy Barnett, senior instructor of Spanish and event coordinator. “By coming to the University campus, visiting students are able to interact with University language faculty and students and visualize what it may be like to attend Murray State in the future.”
Winners of the varsity competition were Hannah Funkhouser from Madisonville North Hopkins High School, Hannah Mabry from Community Christian Academy and Eden Cunningham from Murray Home School.
For more information about the Global Languages Showcase, visit bit.ly/2E5Qb0f.
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