Cultural Jambalaya’s 2023 Annual Event

DIVERSITY

AWARDS

You’re invited to an evening to support Cultural Jambalaya’s educational programming

Thursday, September 28, 2023

5:30 p.m.

METROPOLITAN BALLROOM

5418 Wayzata Blvd.

Golden Valley, Minn.

PRESENTED BY:

Katina & Franck Gougeon

Ciresi Conlin LLP

TICKETS – will be available online soon

FEATURING:

2023 Diversity Award Winner: Jugaad Leadership Program

Jugaad Leadership Program is the City of St. Cloud’s first initiative that provides Black, Indigenous and People of Color with the knowledge, skills and resources to become effective leaders in Central Minnesota. With the area’s changing demographics, Jugaad is collaborating with partners, businesses, schools and organizations to dismantle institutional racism through systemic change. The program is increasing the status quo of minorities by promoting inclusive and equitable excellence where they have a voice in community decision-making and feel they belong and welcomed.

PROGRAM:

“Beyond the Textbook: Why Ethnic Studies Matters”

Moderator: Beth Hawkins, senior writer and national correspondent for The 74, a nonprofit news organization covering America’s education system.

A panel of education leaders will discuss why Ethnic Studies:

– teaches students about the history and experiences of diverse cultures, with a focus on the perspectives of people of color within and beyond the United States;

– helps students develop a sense of identity and pride in their own heritage, while recognizing and respecting the diversity of others.

MUSIC BY:

Thomasina Petrus, accompanied by Thom West

Twin Cities theater veteran and stage performer, Thomasina Petrus, has portrayed lead characters on major stages, including Penumbra, Guthrie, Park Square, Mixed Blood and Illusion. She has performed with artistic legends, such as Prince, James “Cornbread” Harris, Sr., Lou Bellamy, Lewis Whitlock and Marion McClinton. Thomasina established her own company to produce Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, portraying Billie Holiday’s music and historical legacy; and wrote Lady Days and Etta…Dreams to Remember, a musical/biographical revue of the life of Etta James.

Presenting Sponsors

Katina & Franck Gougeon
Ciresi Conlin LLP

Gold Sponsor

Kraus-Anderson Companies

Silver Sponsors

Mary Lou Barton
DSB Rock Island
Michael Werch Family
Route 66 Productions
Wells Fargo Advisors

Bronze Sponsor

Connie Barry Foundation

In-Kind Sponsors

Colle + McVoy
Compass Programming
D’Amico Catering
Hi-Fly’n Productions
EXPLR Media
RSVPeterson Event Planning
Tremendous! Entertainment