On September 26, 2015, the Confucius Institute at Wesleyan College held a day-long, grand cultural event in observance of the second International “Confucius Institute Day”. The event attracted approximately 700 people, which set a new record for the number of Macon citizens participating in Chinese cultural events.
The Telegraph gave substantial coverage on the Confucius Institute, demonstrating its cultural influence on Middle Georgia.
To celebrate the annual “Confucius Institute Day”, the faculty of the ConfuciusInstitute at Wesleyan College planned programs, made advertisements and arranged activities with only two months to plan since the beginning of the fall semester. Representatives of the Confucius Institute not only promoted this festival among the 50 most influential merchants and educational institutions in Macon, but also received an interview from The Telegraph. On the day before the event, The Telegraph dedicated an entire page to the upcoming celebration of “Confucius Institute Day”. The report introduced the development and cultural influence of the Confucius Institute at Wesleyan College.
Participants joined in Chinese dance together, demonstrating the festival’s theme of “peace and understanding”.
On the day of the event, Macon citizens gathered at the Confucius Institute at Wesleyan College. The lion dance, Chinese operas and other shows drew thunderous applause from the audience. When the activities came to an end, hundreds of participants joined in the Chinese dance, “Spring Comes”. A total of 16 cultural activities were carried out throughout the day. Dr. Vivia Fowler, Provost and Vice President of Wesleyan College, as well as the Chinese and American Co-Directors of the Confucius Institute at Wesleyan College, delivered keynote speeches. A great number of the participants showed interest in the interactive booths displaying traditional clothes, photos, Chinese characters, calligraphy and traditional sports. The guests left messages on a large message board to echo the theme of “peace and understanding” and reflect on the profound Chinese culture. Many Chinese students studying at Wesleyan expressed their sincere wishes for prosperity and strength for the motherland.
After the event, Wesleyan student performer Zhou YunFan sent a thank-you note to the faculty of the Confucius Institute. She was thankful for the opportunity to spread Chinese culture as a member of the Confucius Institute. She also showed appreciation for the efforts of all who made the event a great success. Mr. Lu Xiangjun, President of the Middle Georgia Chinese-American Association, also extended heartfelt thanks for the excellent work the Confucius Institute has done. He lauded the Confucius Institute at Wesleyan College as the backbone of spreading Chinese culture in Georgia.
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