Join Nearly 1,000 Students at SIU for an Exciting World Languages and Cultures Day!

Center stage: SIU Carbondale students play a key role in showcasing languages and traditions at World Languages and Cultures Day. (SIU Carbondale photos)

January 30, 2025

Nearly 1,000 Students to Attend World Languages and Cultures Day at SIU

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill. — On February 3, Southern Illinois University Carbondale will host nearly 1,000 high school students from 15 schools across Illinois for its 49th annual World Languages and Cultures Day.

The event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. in the Student Center. Chancellor Austin Lane, Dean Joddy Murray, and faculty members will welcome the students at 9:15 a.m.

“We live in a connected world, and this day helps students experience the richness of multiple languages and cultures,” said Murray. “It’s a chance for them to engage with our diverse society and consider SIU for their future studies.”

Students will participate in a variety of interactive sessions. They’ll explore topics like Middle Eastern Christianity, American Sign Language, and the role of hip-hop in racial identity. Other sessions will delve into the impact of artificial intelligence on language learning and teaching.

Participating high schools include:

• Carterville High School
• Chester High School
• Cobden High School
• Du Quoin High School
• Eldorado High School
• Herrin High School
• Johnston City High School
• Marion High School
• Mount Vernon Township High School
• Murphysboro High School
• Okaw Valley High School
• Pana High School
• Pinckneyville Community High School
• Red Bud High School
• Vienna High School

The celebration is organized by the School of Languages, the Linguistics Program, and the College of Liberal Arts.