The OIE–Hearst Center Story: A Growing Cultural Partnership That Connects Our Community
UNI is one of the Hearst Center’s largest and most valued partners!
What began as a simple email in early 2023 has grown into one of Cedar Falls’ most joyful and anticipated community traditions. When the UNI Office of International Engagement (OIE) reached out to the Hearst Center for the Arts about hosting a Holi celebration, the idea immediately resonated with then-new Director Cory Hurless. He had hoped to expand the Hearst Center’s programming to include more opportunities for cultural appreciation and exchange, and this partnership offered exactly that.
Since that first conversation, the collaboration has flourished. Together, OIE and the Hearst Center now host two major annual cultural events: the Holi Festival of Colors and the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival. Attendance has grown by nearly 25% each year, with community members marking their calendars, volunteering, and returning with friends and family.
The FOMO is real, but it’s also a testament to how deeply these celebrations resonate.
Small Interactions, Lasting Impact
For Programs Coordinator Sheri Huber-Otting, the heart of the partnership is found in the small, joyful moments. Cory recalls a moment from the very first Holi celebration, when a young child asked a UNI student where India was. The student pulled out a map and began sharing about their homeland. “It was such a simple moment,” he reflects, “but also a powerful one. That spark of curiosity and connection may never have happened without an event like this.”
These events create spaces where people can learn, ask questions, and experience cultural traditions in a welcoming environment. From trying on saris and yukatas to tasting traditional foods and participating in art-making activities, attendees are invited to engage with global cultures in ways that are hands-on, respectful, and joyful. “For many Midwesterners, there’s a genuine curiosity,” Cory explains, “but sometimes also a hesitation. These events create a space where people can experience another culture from a place of admiration and learning.”
I’m usually at the food table, and when people I know come and show me the artwork they made with such big smiles on their faces, that is the best.
A Collaboration Rooted in Shared Vision and Expertise
The partnership is strengthened by the balance of what each organization brings. OIE contributes cultural expertise, student leadership, and global perspectives; the Hearst Center brings artistic vision, community reach, and a welcoming creative space. “A successful partnership,” Sheri says, “is one where both entities use their unique strengths to create meaningful, educational, and fun events.” Cory agrees: “When both partners leave an event already excited to plan the next one, that’s when you know it’s working.”
UNI is one of the Hearst Center’s largest and most valued partners. Beyond these two signature events, the Hearst Center collaborates with multiple UNI departments throughout the year; from the English Department’s long-running Final Thursday Readers Series to Music Department concerts, Theatre performances, Art Education workshops, and even STEM-integrated youth programming with Biology students.
UNI is one of the Hearst Center’s largest and most valued partners.
For the Cedar Valley community, the impact is clear. These events offer opportunities to meet new people, experience new ideas, and build a sense of belonging. Community members regularly send thank-you emails and even handwritten notes expressing how meaningful these celebrations are. “Anything we can do to promote art, and culture enriches and strengthens our organization,” Sheri says. “It enriches our patrons, too.”
Looking ahead, both Sheri and Cory are excited about the possibility of expanding the partnership even further. With so many cultures represented within UNI’s international community, the potential for new celebrations, hands-on activities, and shared experiences is wide open. “There are so many traditions and stories we could explore together,” Cory says. “Continuing to build on what we’ve started creates wonderful opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection.”
"In just a few years, the OIE–Hearst Center partnership has become joyful, energizing, and essential and it is an excellent collaboration.” - Cory Hurless, Cultural Programs Supervisor (Hearst Director)
