Southern Arkansas University students have many upcoming events to keep their minds focused on foreign languages this spring.
Students will read poetry from all languages taught at SAU—Chinese, Russian, French and Spanish at a poetry reading at 6:30 p.m., February 19 in Wilson.
On February 28, SAU will host the South Arkansas Foreign Language Alliance which will bring students in from the Four States Area to the Donald W. Reynolds Campus and Community Center to learn more about the importance of foreign languages. The alliance was started by Gisele Souter, a French professor who retired from SAU.
“The day allows teachers from several states to interact and students learn from one another during workshops,” said Dr. Elba Birmingham-Pokorny, Spanish instructor.
Spanish students will have the opportunity to experience Latin American and Caribbean cuisines at noon on March 6 Birmingham-Pokorny said. Students will choose a recipe, prepare it and then share it with their fellow classmates, she said.
In March, foreign language students will also have the opportunity to compete in the department of English and Foreign Languages’ essay and poster contests. The theme for both contests is “Where will learning a foreign language take you?” March 19 is the deadline for each contest. Prizes for each contest include a first place prize of $50, a second place prize of $25 and a third place prize of $15. Assignments must be turned into Birmingham—Pokorny, contest committee chairperson in Wilson 331.
For questions about this spring’s foreign language activities, contact Birmingham-Pokorny at 870-235-4206 or elpokorny@saumag.edu.
