A celebration of Asian arts and community coming to Miller Auditorium

Contact: Maddie Christians, Recruitment & Outreach Specialist

March 19, 2026

A performer on stage at the 2025 Spring Gala. She holds an Asian fan and dances with the spotlight and shadow. — A dancer at the 2025 Spring Gala on stage at Miller Auditorium.

Kalamazoo, Mich. — The Haenicke Institute for Global Education announces Spring Gala 2026. Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the beauty of Asian culture and champion understanding, belonging and unity in Kalamazoo.

Hosted by Western Michigan University’s Asian Initiatives, this year’s Spring Gala promises a vibrant showcase of Asian artistry, cultural traditions and community spirit. The event is Sunday, April 12 at Miller Auditorium.

Experience an evening of unforgettable performances featuring the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and standout local vocal and musical groups.

Enjoy inspiring dance and fashion showcases from Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Public Schools, along with interactive cultural activities and vibrant community booths.

The theater doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the show begins at 6 p.m. Hands-on cultural activities for all ages will start at 4:30 p.m.

Tickets are $22 for the public and $8 for seniors, WMU students, faculty and staff. Purchases can be made at Miller Auditorium.

WMU Asian Initiatives, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, works to enhance scholarship and knowledge of East Asia, as well as provide language and cultural opportunities on WMU’s campus and throughout greater southwest Michigan.

The unit is led by Dr. Ying Zeng, senior director of Asian Initiatives for the Haenicke Institute for Global Education.

“When I speak to our international partners, potential students and parents, I always introduce Kalamazoo as a diverse community with a rich cultural life,” she says. “The Spring Gala is just one example of this community spirit.”

About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education

The Diether H. Haenicke Institute for Global Education, established in 1998, fosters an environment that supports the global engagement of the Western community. Its offices assist nearly 2,000 international students and alumni at home and abroad with admissions, immigration, student success and post-graduation job training.

The institute also facilitates short- and long-term study abroad programs for students, faculty and staff. It hosts a variety of global learning activities, such as designing and promoting scholarship and academic opportunities on campus; providing K-12 outreach; hosting lectures, panels and events; and showcasing arts, entertainment and culture from around the world. Learn more about the Haenicke Institute for Global Education.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.