The campus recently hosted the 2nd Annual Pots 'n Curries Event, an elegant and aromatic casual fine-dining buffet dinner.
Drs. Ted Lee and Natalie Gerber delivered a brief welcome and introduction written by Dr. Vicki Sapp, after which participants feasted on potato samosas with chutney samosa filling, vegetable biryani, chicken karahi, and beef and chicken kofta meatballs. Students, faculty, and staff enjoyed cultural music and videos about Pakistani food while sampling new, multifaceted flavors.
The event was organized and hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; the Intercultural Center and Multicultural Student Support Services Office, the Intercultural Center Keeper of the Dream Scholars and IC Student Leaders and the Honors Program. It was catered by Chef Fatima of Pots ‘n’ Curries with accompanying side dishes and beverages, with service provided by the Faculty Student Association. Pots ‘n’ Curries appears regularly at the Fredonia Farmer’s Market.
Enthusiasm for the cuisine was strong. Makayla Mohrman, a senior in Social Work, commented, “I look forward to this event every year. Thank you for cooking amazing food.” Senior Ava Sargente, a double major in Music Industry and Dance, added, “The food was so delicious, it brought such a smile to my face and really made my day.” Senior Visual Arts and New Media major Jaden Sterner added, “I had never tried Middle Eastern food before the feast you gave us today. I LOVED!!! It!”
Students also noted, “We are so grateful or the welcoming environment you [Dr. Sapp] created and the chance to connect outside of the typical classroom setting. Thank you for your kindness and for making the time to organize such a memorable event for all of us.” First-year student, Medical Laboratory Technology and Music double major Sam Greene added, “Thank you, Dr. Sapp, for doing what you do!”
In the words of Dr. Sapp, who coordinated the many behind-the-scenes logistics, the annual cultural enrichment experience is "intentionally designed to center fellowship, cultural appreciation, and connection." During the event, held in the Horizon Room of the Williams Center, participants had the opportunity to linger over meaningful conversation during an evening filled with authentic Pakistani food selected to highlight traditional ingredients.
The event was sponsored by the Collingwood Diversity Endowment held at Fredonia College Foundation.
