The department of languages and communication invited high school students with an interest in the Spanish and French languages from across the state of Louisiana to compete in the 29 Annual Foreign Language Festival. Out of the hundreds of students that attended and competed, 84 students were recognized.
The competition was divided into five categories: poetry, prose, extemporaneous speaking, music and theatre. Musical performances were not open to the public. Each category had three judges: one faculty member, one member of the community fluent in the particular language and one student who is either a native or fluent speaker.
The competition began at 8 a.m. and was based in the Student Union Ballroom, though some took place in separate locations such as the Student Union’s theatre and mall. The talent show was held alongside the competitions, beginning at 8:45 a.m. and ending at 11:15 a.m in the Student Union Mall.
The talent show featured Spanish or French musical and stage performances by students. Following a lunch break, the winners of the competition and talent shows were announced during an awards ceremony held in the Pottle Music Auditorium.
While students were able to compete individually, awards were given to best overall school. Mount Carmel Academy in New Orleans was named best overall in French, St. Paul School in Covington was named best in Spanish.
“I’m extremely excited and proud of my students,” said Kristy Shaffer, instructor of French at Mount Carmel Academy. “They gave up their lunchtime to be here and they’ve worked very hard to accomplish what they did here.”
Two students that excelled in the extemporaneous speaking category were awarded one of two exclusive prizes. For French, Joshua Springer of Baton Rouge Magnet High School was awarded the Wallonie-Bruxelles International scholarship. For Spanish, Patrick Richards of St. Paul’s High School received a cruise to Mexico From New Orleans with a maximum value of $1,000.
“It’s really awesome to be able to go on a trip like this and experience different culture,” said Richards. “I’ve taken four years of Spanish and I owe a lot to my teachers.”
This year, as it has been for the past 12 years, the festival was directed by Dr. Luz Escobar, instructor of the Spanish language.
“The festival was in danger of disappearing,” said Escobar. “They asked who wanted to run it that year, I raised my hand and here I am today 12 years later. It was wonderful this year. I don’t have to tell you that, look around you. We have so many students here.”
Escobar also noted how the festival helps with the recruitment of future students. Escobar also said that she had worked closely with Admissions and Financial Aid, the Campus Activities Board and the office of Multicultural and International Student Affairs to promote the festival.
Dr. Lucia Harrison, the department head of languages and communication, agreed with Escobar that the festival was a success.
“This is such a wonderful event,” said Harrison. “We have these students from all over come here to show and enjoy their talent. It is always wonderful to see the plays and musical performances.”