Early in February, approximately 190 students and instructors from NOVA’s American Culture and Language Institute (ACLI) gathered for their Welcome Potluck Luncheon and Academic Award Ceremony.

Students shared and enjoyed food representing a variety of cultures.

One student later wrote, “I was very excited from the first day that I knew there was a party called a Pot Luck. We would share foods from different countries. On that day, I tried almost every dish. They were all perfect.” 

Afterwards, Ms. Darlene Branges, an ACLI Coordinator, awarded Ms. Nueraila Abulizi with the ACLI Academic Award of Excellence. Each semester this award is given to a student who exhibits academic success, a strong work ethic, and leadership qualities within the classroom.

She was nominated by her instructor, Ms. Dianne Prosack, who wrote:

“Not only is she studying English full-time, she volunteers in a dental clinic.  Besides being a very dedicated hardworking student, she also is one of the kindest, most generous people I have had the pleasure of meeting.  She was friendly toward all of her classmates, assisted them when she could, and even listened to their problems. I don’t think there is a more deserving student.” 

The luncheon concluded with a competitive Valentine’s themed game of Kahoot.