Indianapolis, Indiana -The University of Indianapolis once again brought color, culture, and community together on Thursday, October 9, as it hosted its 37th annual Celebration of Flags Ceremony & Festivities on Smith Mall. The beloved campus tradition highlighted the university’s deep commitment to diversity and inclusion, showcasing the international backgrounds of students, faculty, and staff in a lively, family-friendly celebration that drew hundreds of guests.
The event, which is modeled after the Olympics Opening Ceremony, has long been one of UIndy’s most cherished traditions. During the signature “Call of Nations,” participants representing countries from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe proudly carried their national flags across the mall, symbolizing both their individual identities and their shared place in the university’s global community.
As each flag was announced, applause and cheers echoed across the campus green. Many participants dressed in traditional attire from their home countries, turning the ceremony into a moving display of pride, heritage, and unity. It was a moment that captured the very essence of what the University of Indianapolis stands for — learning through shared experience and respect for cultural diversity.
“The Celebration of Flags is a powerful symbol of what it means to be a part of a global community,” said UIndy President Dr. Tanuja Singh. “Our students don’t just learn from books and classrooms—they learn from the diverse cultures and perspectives of every person on campus. That is one of the true strengths of UIndy.”
The festivities didn’t end with the parade of nations. Following the ceremony, guests were invited to continue celebrating through a series of cultural activities that lasted throughout the afternoon. Inside the Schwitzer Student Center, attendees were treated to a global food tasting, featuring complimentary dishes from nine countries. The air filled with aromas from across continents, offering participants a literal taste of the diversity that defines the UIndy campus.
Outside, the celebration continued with live music and dance performances, giving both students and visitors an opportunity to experience cultures from around the world through art and movement. The performances — from rhythmic Latin beats to traditional folk dances — brought smiles to faces and energy to the crowd, turning the afternoon into a true festival of togetherness.
Inside the student center, the university’s study abroad showcase also drew interest. Students learned about upcoming faculty-led international programs available in the spring semester and had the chance to speak directly with global learning coordinators. The showcase served as a reminder that UIndy’s international engagement extends beyond campus borders — it’s a continuous journey of learning and cultural exchange.
Organizers estimated that around 500 guests attended this year’s Celebration of Flags, including students, faculty, alumni, and members of the general public. Free parking and open access encouraged local residents to join in the celebration, further strengthening ties between the university and the surrounding Indianapolis community.
For those who have attended the ceremony in past years, the event holds special meaning. It’s not just about recognizing the flags themselves — it’s about recognizing the people behind them, and the stories they bring. Each participant’s journey adds another thread to the vibrant tapestry of UIndy’s identity.
This year’s event once again underscored the university’s belief that true education goes far beyond academic achievement. It involves learning from people who see the world differently, building empathy, and developing the global perspective necessary to thrive in today’s interconnected world.
As the sun set over Smith Mall and the final performances came to a close, it was clear that the University of Indianapolis’ Celebration of Flags had once again succeeded in uniting the campus under one shared theme — that while we may come from many nations, we all stand together as one global family.
For additional information about the Celebration of Flags or related campus activities, the university encourages inquiries to be directed to Dan Klein, UIndy’s Director of Public & Media Relations.
