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University of Miami Students Spice Things Up With 'A Week of Cuban Culture'

February 29, 2008

University of Miami Students Spice Things Up With ‘A Week of Cuban Culture’
Federación de Estudiantes Cubanos Host Event March 3-7, 2008

Coral Gables, FL (February 29, 2008) - The Federación de Estudiantes Cubanos (FEC), a student organization at the University of Miami presents “A Week of Cuban Culture: Connecting U to Our Culture.” 

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the Federación de Estudiantes Cubanos (FEC) is a non-profit organization at the University of Miami which promotes the many aspects of the rich Cuban culture to the UM community and the community at large.  Beginning with Opening Ceremonies on March 3, “A Week of Cuban Culture” plays host to events including exhibits of Cuban art, musical performances and tasty offerings unique to the island. The FEC strives to promote Cuban culture to the UM community by creating educational and exciting programs. All events are free and open to the public.

Monday, March 3, 12PM-1:30PM at the University Center Rock – “Bienvenidos a Cuba,” Opening Ceremony .  A traditional Cuban lunch will be served and speakers include Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, philanthropist and successful businesswoman and UM Board of Trustee Dany Garcia Johnson, Grammy-winning Cuban singers and composers Albita Rodriguez and Jon Secada. They will each also be presented with the Y.U.C.A (Young Urban Cuban American) Award from the Federación de Estudiantes Cubanos, which recognizes Young Urban Cuban-American leaders. Albita will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

7:00PM-8:30PM at the University Center Rock. “The Domino Ef-FEC-t,” a domino tutorial and tournament with Cuban food and entertainment provided.

Tuesday, March 4, 12PM-2PM at the University Center Patio – “Azucar.” Taste the sweets of Cuba while enjoying the sounds of the Cuban culture.

Wednesday, March 5, 12PM-2PM at the University Center – “Discover Cuba.” Students will dress in traditional Cuban costume while enjoying a cooking demonstration of Arroz con Pollo, an island favorite.

Thursday, March 6, 1:30PM-3PM at the University Center Patio – FEC Cuban Carnival “The Rhythm is Gonna Get U.” The sights, sounds, flavors, and fiesta’s of Cuba come alive as the FEC invites the university community to experience the tropical Cuban culture.

5:15PM at the Storer Auditorium. “Why Identity Matters,” a lecture given by Cuban culture anthropologist, Dr. Ruth Behar. Cuban coffee will be served.

Friday, March 7, 12PM-1PM at the Cuban Heritage Collection – “Cuban vs. Cuban American: Discussion.” Students discuss what it means to be Cuban vs. what it means to be Cuban-American.

The programs held during the week are free of charge and are open to the public. For more information, call Elena Smukler, (305) 495-6620 or email e.smukler@umiami.edu

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The University of Miami’s mission is to educate and nurture students, to create knowledge, and to provide service to our community and beyond.  Committed to excellence and proud of the diversity of our University family, we strive to develop future leaders of our nation and the world. www.miami.edu

UM Media Contact:  Sahyli Ramirez
sramirez@miami.edu
305-284-8624

FEC Student Contact:  Elena Smukler
E.Smukler@umiami.edu
305.495.6620