On the evening of May 10th, an overflow audience of UIC students, faculty and staff enjoyed an outstanding concert presented by the 65 voice Augsburg College Choir from Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA with Professor Peter Hendrickson being the conductor.

The Augsburg College Choir 

During the welcoming speech, Prof. Kwok Siu-tong, Executive Vice President of UIC, used "Humility"," Honored", and "Overwhelmed" to describe his feeling for the presence of the choir.

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Prof. Kwow giving a welcoming speech 

The ensemble performed a diverse repertoire, including compositions by well-known Russian, Finnish, American, Czech, Indonesian and Chinese composers in seven languages, including the Chinese folk songs Wusuli Boat Song and Jasmine Flower.

Professor Peter Hendrickson communicating with UIC students

The audience generally found this concert fantastic and enjoyable.  A student from Accounting program said: "The activity tonight is really great! Their beautiful voices really refresh me after one day's studying!" Dr. Kitty Pappas, Director of the Art and Culture Development Center, commended the concert a performance of high standard. Even the show was ended, UIC students were reluctant to leave. Students stayed in the lobby and communicated with the choir members and took photos.

 
A UIC student taking photos with the Choir members

Mr. Patrick Quade, Chief of UIC International Development Office, said: "This occasion affirmed UIC's commitment to the arts and to the important role of internationalism in our daily lives...The impact of this event will continue to inspire all of us at UIC as we go about our pursuit of knowledge and experience leading us all to greater service in the lives of all people."

Prof. Paul Pribbenow giving a speech

Augsburg College is one of the key strategic partners from Minnesota Private College Council that UIC has established close cooperation. During his last visit to UIC, Prof. Paul C. Pribbenow, President of Augsburg College, promised to bring more Augsburg students to UIC, and he did it with a surprise. Mr. Patrick Quade said: "Our hope is to work toward the day when UIC can send a choir to the campus of Augsburg College in the USA...This grand evening will have all of us singing in international harmony for a long time to come!"

 News Source: International Development Office
Student Reporter: Vincent Gan, Micky Mai
Photos and Editor: Richard Xu
Media and Public Relations Office