Words of the World

April is National Poetry Month, and on April 21, 2026, the University of Rio Grande celebrated it in style. Students and faculty gathered to read their favorite poems as well as original works, creating an event that was both personal and powerful. Twenty-five readers representing 10 nationalities and six languages shared their voices, emotions, and cultures at the Jeanette Albiez Davis Library. This diversity is part of what makes Rio a distinctive place for students to grow academically and culturally. The event drew an audience of 63 students, faculty, and staff, and it was especially meaningful for the international community. 

Participants took the podium to read poems in their native languages, offering a powerful reminder that expression goes beyond literal understanding. Even when the words were not fully understood, the beauty and uniqueness of each language resonated with the audience. Professors and English-speaking students also shared poems, and the event concluded with an open mic that invited even more participants to take the stage. The event was hosted by the ESL Program in collaboration with the Davis Library, the Madog Center for Welsh Studies, the Social Work Program, and the Mental Wellbeing initiative. Rio remains committed to supporting its students and to fostering global citizens through inclusive and meaningful experiences like this one.