A campus-wide Mardi Gras celebration took place on Thursday, February 21, culminating in an evening performance by the Boogaloo Swamis, a local Cajun band, in Straus Library.
The Modern Languages French program wanted to introduce students to the flavor of New Orleans, the southern Louisiana community originally formed by French colonists. Their language, culture and customs blended with Caribbean and African influences to create a culture unique to America.
French classes explored Cajun culture through class projects and a unit on French history in America. Forbes Dining Hall transformed to Bourbon Street, serving up Zydeco music and creole specialties—complete with etouffee and beignets. Students were encouraged to deck out in their Carnival finest—masks, beads and colorful attire—and won prizes for the best costumes.
The day’s festivities were made possible by the Francine L. Bustin Memorial Fund. Established in 1985, the Fund brings French scholars, lecturers, teachers and artists to campus to promote French language and culture.
As they say in New Orleans, Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)
