Otero College’s 26th annual International Food Night, which celebrates cuisines from around the world, will return to an in-person format this fall.
Hosted by the college’s International Relations Office, the event — which is typically held each year in the spring — is returning to the college on Thursday, Nov. 11, in the Rizzuto Banquet Room.
“Our community needs a soiree!” International Relations Director Maureen Rikhof said in a news release. “We are confident we can have a fun and successful event at this time! We look forward to hosting our community on campus.”
An International Foods Night virtual event was held in April 2021, but the event is returning live with the full menu, entertainment, and auction items the community has supported over the past quarter-century. The event is a primary source of funding for scholarships awarded to international students and activities to enrich global thinking for all Otero students.
“We know that this is a cherished event with a lot of history; supporting the world coming to Otero each year,” Rikhof said.
International Foods Night attendees can expect global foods, music, entertainment, and the opportunity to bid on auction items.
“Artwork, services, meals, beautiful jewelry have all been donated to support our students on campus,” said Darrin Nielsen, the program’s events coordinator.
The dinner will be catered by Sodexo and provides a wide variety of foods to represent many of the home countries of Otero students. This year’s menu will feature:
- Appetizers: Gyoza (Japan), Cheese Wontons (China) and Empanadas (Spain)
- Entrees: Jerk Chicken and Jasmine Rice (Jamaica), Poutine (Canada) and Shepherd’s Pie (Scotland)
- Desserts: Sweet Rice (India), Tiramisu (Italy), Tres Leche (Mexico)
Tickets for the event are $39, or $300 for a table of 8 people. A limited number of seats are still available for the event. Those interested in registering can do so by contacting the International Relations office at [email protected] or sign up online at https://form.jotform.com/212766749800059
According to the International Office, a waitlist will be kept once tickets are sold out in case of any cancelations. Doors will open at 6 p.m.
For questions about International Food Night or the International Relations Organization, contact Maureen Rikhof at 719-384-6805 or by email at [email protected].
