This year’s Arts and Culture Day for area schoolchildren at Eastern Connecticut State University focused on Russia. Hosted by the Center for Community Engagement (CCE), the event brings students from Windham Public Schools to Eastern for an afternoon of cultural exploration of a chosen country or region. This year’s event took place on Feb. 27.

Past events have explored Africa, India and Puerto Rico. “This is the first time we’ve focused on an Eastern European country. Not only is Russian culture rich, but it’s topical and relevant,” said Max Goto, CCE event coordinator. “Some of the kids have participated in the day all four years; they’re broadening their worldview beyond the Windham community.”

Afterschool programs from all five public elementary schools in Windham participated. Approximately 250 children, 25 staff members from the elementary schools and 35 student-volunteers from Eastern were present for the fun-filled afternoon in the Student Center.

“The Arts and Culture Series provides enrichment for the elementary schools’ already robust afterschool programming,” said CCE Director Kim Silcox. “Furthermore, it gets the kids out of their classrooms and exposes them to college and college students. It’s a fun and engaging way for them to learn about different cultures.”

Activities included ballet and dance workshops, dressing up in traditional Russian clothing for photo shoots, designing Russian-styled buildings with construction paper, making Olympic torches and decorating ornamental Faberge eggs.   “I love this event; it teaches the kids something they wouldn’t typically learn,” said Emily Cameron, a senior majoring in mathematics. “Russia was completely new to the kids, unlike last year with Puerto Rico. The kids loved it; they’re like sponges, soaking everything in.”