Spring Gala
WMU Asian Initiatives proudly presents the Spring Gala, a vibrant celebration of Asian Pacific cultural heritage featuring captivating Asian-themed performances. Supported by community groups, WMU faculty, staff, and students, this event serves as a platform to honor and showcase Asia’s rich cultural traditions. Through mesmerizing dance routines, musical performances, and theatrical presentations, the Spring Gala brings together talented artists and performers who passionately share their stories with the audience. This joyous occasion not only entertains but also educates, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and understanding.
For more information, please contact Asian Initiatives at 269-387-3951 or @email.
PAST SPRING GALAS
March 22, 2025, Miller Auditorium
Culture Booths: 4:30 PM, Gala Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Thank you to the nearly 900 patrons and volunteers who joined us on March 22 for the Spring Gala, making it an unforgettable evening celebrating the beauty of Asian culture and championing diversity, peace and love in Kalamazoo.
We held hands-on cultural activities for all ages will start at 4:30 p.m. There were also informational booths for patrons to learn more about Western Michigan University's (WMU) international community and the Haenicke Institute's campus and community outreach.
Hosted by the Haenicke Institute for Global Education's Asian Initiatives, this year's Spring Gala promises a vibrant showcase of Asian artistry, culture and community spirit. WMU Trustee Lynn L. Chen-Zhang will be the evening's emcee.
Spring Gala 2025 featured:
- Moving scenes from the Peking opera performed by award-winning actress Linghui Tu and actor Suosen Lv.
- Performances by the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra and the Kalamazoo Children’s Chorus
- Inspiring dance and fashion acts presented by the students and staff of WMU, Kalamazoo Public Schools, the Kalamazoo Chinese Academy and other local Asian American organizations
- The retelling of traditional nursery rhymes in Chinese by students of Comstock Early Learning Academy
April 21, 2024, 4 PM, Miller Auditorium
2024 "Spring Gala" celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, was presented by Western Michigan University Asian Initiatives and the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. This vibrant event featured performances by the Kalamazoo Ringers handbell ensemble, the Kalamazoo Male Chorus, and the dynamic Michigan Hiryu Daiko drummers. Be captivated by an award-winning Peking Opera actress and enjoy an array of local dance groups.
The Gala also showcased talented students from WMU and Kalamazoo Public Schools, promising an afternoon filled with cultural richness and artistic flair.
