Press release:
From the 2014 FIFA World Cup to the 2016 Summer Olympics, the first ever to be held in South America, Brazil has become accustomed to the limelight. The local community will have a chance to learn more about the world's fifth largest country through a series of events planned this academic year at Genesee Community College by the College's Global Education Committee.
"We selected Brazil because our students will be hearing a lot about Brazil. We have students from Brazil. It's a beautiful country and an important player in the global economy," said Committee Member Nina Mortellaro.
Events begin with a lecture by GCC History Professor Charles Scruggs. "Brazil: Beyond Supermodels, Samba and Soccer" is set for Tuesday, Oct. 14, 12:30-2 p.m. in Room T102 of the Conable Technology Building on GCC's Batavia campus. The event is FREE and open to the public.
"In the past decade we have witnessed a surge in the global stature of Brazil," Scruggs said. "What accounts for this stunning transformation? What challenges linger as the world's fifth largest country attempts to carve out a new role for itself in the 21st Century?"
Scruggs will explore these questions and more, drawing on a range of historical, sociological, economic and political research.
On Tuesday, Oct. 28, the Global Education Committee presents Sankofa African Dance and Drum Ensemble from SUNY Brockport. With choreography expressing elements of both African and Brazilian culture, Sankofa brings essences of the past into the present. The members represent the rich cultural heritage of Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Americas and Africa.
Sankofa will perform from 12:30 – 2 p.m. in the Forum on the GCC Batavia Campus. Light refreshments will be served.
The Committee is also planning an authentic Carnaval da Brazil to be held in February. The event will include arts, music, food tastings and more including a demonstration of capoeira (pronounced kap-way-ra), a Brazilian martial art combining dance, acrobatics and music. Students from Academia com Expressão of Rochester will show their skill.
In addition, GCC Faculty will present an "Experience Brazil" travel log in March, sharing their personal insights from visits to the country.
