The seventh annual celebrate Diversity day at Wagner College encourage the young and old to learn from each other, share with each other, and enjoy each other, with traditional performances and foods.

This year's Celebrate Diversity event highlighted the cultures of Russia, China, Sierra Leone, Egypt and Native American neighbors. Children were able to travel from country to country by visiting their "marketplace" area with hand made projects and souvenirs. On the stage in the gym, the culture of each region took shape: The elegance precision of Russian dancers alongside of other performances.

The Russian community caught everyone’s attention with live traditional Russian music and clothing, which included the Russian instrument, the Balalayka. Children (ages 5 to 15) that attend Staten Island Community Center for music and dance put on an amazing performance. Our wonderful ballet teacher, Elena Bolotina, and her ballet class from SICC had put on a great performance with beautiful traditional clothing and music. As well as Leonid Filatov, “The Magnificent” their famous dance instructor that SICC has to teach their children. He also has his own show in Las Vegas.

The Russian community took hand in Diversity’s Celebration essay and art contest. Irina Bykhovski, 13 years old, attends Staten Island Community Center for after school, had won 3rd place in the essay contest. Also, our Kindergarten teacher, Ms. Kelly Silletto had also won 3rd place for the quilt that her children had made for the classroom art projects.