Augustana's inaugural Culture Houses Block Party unites campus in celebration of diversity

Augustana College's first-ever Culture Houses Block Party, held Sept. 18, brought together students, faculty and staff for a vibrant celebration of diversity and culture.

The event, co-hosted by Augustana's Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; the Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity; and the Office of International Student and Scholar Services, featured tours of the college's three culture houses, fun activities, music and raffle prizes.

Located on the upper campus, the college's three culture houses — Casa Latina, the Black Culture House, and the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American House — feature study and lounge spaces, full kitchens and colorful murals.

Dr. Gauri Pitale, vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, said the culture houses point to Augustana's rich tradition of embracing diversity by elevating the identities of the college’s diverse community members.

"Augustana’s three culture houses and our many multicultural organizations enrich campus life and allow all students and members of campus to connect," Dr. Pitale said. "The culture houses provide a supportive and inclusive environment for students and space to hold meetings, offering programming for student organizations and a place for students to hang out."

Leslie Moreno '26, the vice president of Latinx Unidos, said the block party created an exciting opportunity to share the culture houses with the campus community.

"This block party invited anyone who hasn't seen the houses in," she said. "It offered a chance to stop by and see what they're about, maybe even get involved with culture groups around campus."

Emilio Rodriguez, a senior music education major from Elgin, Ill., is a culture house coordinator. He leads some student programming and assists students in accessing the houses, which are open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

"These houses are open for students so that they can see their cultures reflected on campus," he said. "I hope that they know that there are places on campus for them."

by Genevieve Ryan '26