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Honoring CLU’s Scandinavian Roots at the 2025 Scandinavian Festival

California Lutheran University (CLU) is deeply rooted in its Scandinavian heritage, a legacy that continues to shape its identity and traditions. Founded in 1959 by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, CLU was established with strong ties to Scandinavian immigrants who brought their values of education, community, and service to California. This rich heritage is still celebrated today, and one of the most vibrant ways this history comes to life is through the annual Scandinavian Festival.

On April 5th and 6th, the CLU campus will transform into a lively hub of Nordic culture as the Scandinavian Festival returns for another year of festivities. The event, one of the largest Nordic heritage celebrations in Southern California, invites students, faculty, and the local community to experience the traditions of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland.

Attendees can enjoy folk music and dance performances, taste traditional foods such as Swedish meatballs and Danish aebleskiver, and engage in hands-on activities like Viking-era crafts and Scandinavian storytelling. The festival also features a historical reenactment area, where visitors can learn about Viking history, and a genealogy booth to help attendees trace their Scandinavian ancestry.

Beyond the festivities, the Scandinavian Festival serves as a reminder of CLU’s foundational values—academic excellence, global engagement, and cultural appreciation. As the university continues to welcome students from around the world, the festival highlights how CLU’s past and present intersect, creating a community that embraces both tradition and innovation.

Whether you have Scandinavian heritage or simply want to immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience, the Scandinavian Festival is a can’t-miss event. Mark your calendars for April 5th and 6th, and join the celebration of the Nordic roots that helped shape CLU into the institution it is today!

For more information and volunteer opportunities, visit scandinavianfest.org.

During these turbulent times, your generous support and contribution make an impact on our students' lives. In the current 2024-2025 academic year, CGE issued just under $16k in awards to 11 students, permitting them to embrace our mission in global education and remain at CLU for their studies. Our GEF fund is in need of replenishment, and we hope you can help! 

The Global Engagement Fund empowers CLU students to broaden their horizons through international education, cultural programming, and global experiences that shape their academic and personal growth. Your generous contribution helps provide scholarships, support study abroad opportunities, and enhance programs that foster cross-cultural understanding.

Make a lasting impact—donate today and help us create a more globally connected community! Contributions received will count toward the annual Cares Day campaign.

For Nina Almaoui (far left in the picture), Fall 2024 was a season of adventure, discovery, and personal growth. As a participant in the semester study abroad program at the University of Auckland, she immersed herself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand, collecting memories that will last a lifetime.

From the moment she arrived, Nina embraced the spirit of exploration. She found herself trying many things for the first time—whether it was venturing into the wilderness for a camping trip, navigating the bustling city streets of Auckland, or witnessing the awe-inspiring Southern Lights. Along the way, she built friendships with students from all over the world, expanding her perspective and deepening her appreciation for different cultures.

One of the biggest surprises for Nina was the weather. Expecting a mild climate, she was caught off guard by how cold it could get, especially in the outdoor settings she frequented. But the crisp air only added to the charm of New Zealand’s stunning scenery, from its lush forests and rolling hills to its dramatic coastlines and star-filled skies.

As her semester came to an end, Nina returned to CLU with a newfound sense of confidence, a heart full of cherished memories, and a global network of friends. Her experience in New Zealand was not just about academics—it was about stepping outside her comfort zone, embracing the unknown, and discovering just how much she was capable of.

For students considering studying abroad, Nina’s story is a reminder that the world is full of surprises, beauty, and opportunities—waiting to be explored.

This March, a group of CLU students embarked on a transformative journey to Egypt as part of the faculty-led course Ancient Philosophy in Egypt, led by Professor Brian Collins during spring break. The program took students to key historical sites in Cairo, Giza, and Luxor, immersing them in the rich intellectual traditions of ancient Egyptian thought.

The course explored fundamental philosophical questions and debates that shaped early Egyptian civilization. Through site visits and discussions, students developed skills in reconstructing and evaluating arguments while engaging critically with ancient philosophical themes. The experience not only deepened their understanding of Egyptian philosophy but also enhanced their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

From the towering pyramids of Giza to the intricate temple inscriptions of Luxor, the program offered a rare opportunity to connect philosophical inquiry with the cultural and historical context in which it emerged. Students returned with a newfound appreciation for ancient wisdom and its relevance to modern philosophical discourse.

For more faculty-led opportunities please visit our website: Faculty-Led Programs!

During the 2024-2025 academic year, California Lutheran University hosted Abigail Scott, an exchange student from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. As she nears the end of her time at CLU, we asked Abigail to share about her experiences, insights, and reflections of her time abroad: 

First Impressions of CLU and Thousand Oaks
Abigail’s first impression of CLU was the vastness of the campus and the way the classrooms are spread out. One of the aspects she has particularly enjoyed is the natural beauty surrounding the university. The combination of academic spaces and scenic landscapes has made her feel at home in Thousand Oaks.

Exploring California
Beyond the CLU campus, Abigail has embraced the opportunity to explore California. She has traveled to Malibu, Santa Monica, Ventura, Camarillo, Hollywood, and Downtown Los Angeles, taking in the sights, shopping at unique stores, and experiencing the state’s famous beaches. Her adventures outside of Thousand Oaks have been some of the most memorable parts of her exchange experience.

Campus Life and Community
Abigail has found a welcoming community at CLU through the Global Leaders Community living-learning program and the CGE. Events sponsored by GLC and CGE provided her with opportunities to meet new people, engage in cultural celebrations, and build friendships with both international and local students.

Academic Differences and Learning Experience
One of the significant differences Abigail has noticed between CLU and Aberdeen is the class size. At CLU, smaller class sizes have facilitated more interactive discussions, which she has found particularly beneficial as a Philosophy major. She has also appreciated the support and understanding nature of the professors in the Philosophy department.

As Abigail prepares to return to Scotland, she reflects on her time at CLU with gratitude. Her semester has been filled with enriching academic experiences, exciting travel opportunities, and meaningful connections. Her journey serves as an inspiration for future students considering an exchange program at CLU.

CLU Associate Provost for Global Engagement Dr. Christina Sanchez was elected to the AIEA: Association of International Education Administrators Board during the 2025 March conference for a three-year commitment. AIEA is the only association dedicated exclusively to senior leaders of higher education institutions and of organizations that support international higher education.

The organization is actively engaged in advocacy initiatives to support international students and students participating in away programs, policy development to strengthen international education, and leadership development for senior international officers.    

Global Happenings in April

Club India Presents: Holi 2025

Friday, April 4

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm (or when the colors run out!)

Kingsmen Park

Welcome spring and participate in the Hindu Festival of Colors sponsored by CLU Club India. There will be lots of colors, raffle prizes, and light refreshments for the first 100 attendees. 

If you have questions about the program, contact apandhi@CalLutheran.edu. 

Arab American Heritage Fest

Friday, April 4

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Lundring Event Center

Join Student Life's Center for Cultural Engagement and Inclusion for their Arab American Heritage Fest during April 4th's Foodie Friday After Dark Edition from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm in Lundring Events Center. 

There will be food for the first 200 students, and music and activities and fun for all! For detailed information please contact ccei@callutheran.edu.

Earth Day Sustainability Fair

Tuesday, April 22

11:15am - 1:30pm 

Kingsmen Park

Join us in celebrating Earth Day at this year’s Sustainability Fair, hosted by the Center for Global Engagement (CGE)! This annual event highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable living, bringing together campus and community partners dedicated to protecting our planet.

This year’s participants include:

  *The Seed Garden Project (CLU) – promoting sustainable gardening 

    and biodiversity,
  *The Earth Society – CLU’s student-led environmental club, 
  *Malibu Creek Ecosystem Restoration Project – working to restore

   local habitats (restoremalibucreek.org).

  *Ascension Lutheran Church – offering fair trade products that support

   ethical consumerism.

Global Trivia Night

Tuesday, April 22

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Ahmanson 203

Put your knowledge to the test! Join Model United Nations for a fun-filled evening of Global Trivia, featuring questions on world events, international cultures, and global affairs. Whether pro or novice, all are invited and small prizes awarded to the champs.

Contact rherbert@CalLutheran.edu with questions.

AAPI Night Market

Wednesday, April 23

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Kingsmen Park

Celebrate the Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month by attending a night market in the CLU Kingsmen Park with food, vendors, and special performances! This event is free for students. There is a $5 admission fee for faculty/staff and community. For questions or accommodation requests please email ccei@callutheran.edu.

Solvang Field Trip Excursion

Interest Submission Due By April 1

Travel Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Departure: 9:00 pm
Estimated Return: 5:00 pm

The United Students of the World, the Global Leaders Community, and Global Studies are hosting a field trip to Solvang on April 26! Participants will enjoy a guided tour and have time to discover the charm of this Danish-inspired town. This exciting trip is set to be a great cultural experience for those who signed up!

CCEI Send-Off 

Saturday, May 10

2:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Kingsmen Park

The Center for Global Engagement in partnership with Student Life’s Center for Cultural Engagement and Inclusion is excited to honor our graduating global leaders including, international students, study away alum, Peer Mentors & Ambassadors, and members of the Global Leaders Community.

RSVP Required. Please contact CCEI for detailed information: ccei@callutheran.edu.

Which country has the most time zones, including overseas territories?

A) Russia

B) United States
C) France
D) United Kingdom

Contact Us:
global@callutheran.edu
+1 (805) 493-3750

Mail To:
60 West Olsen Road #6400
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

TRIVIA ANSWER: France (With 12 time zones, due to its overseas territories)

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