The Nebraska Cultural Unity Conference was held at the University of Nebraska at Kearney on March 31, 2023. The entire event was organized by Juan Carlos Guzman, the UNK Director of Diversity Outreach and Partnership and hosted by UNK student, Maria Carla. This annual conference holds more than 500 high school students from across Nebraska to inspire diversity and inclusion. 

Educational exercises were held in the multiple diamonds of the school. Among these activities were lessons in Latino history, providing insight on the meaning and classification of Spanish-speaking identities. Another involved taking a look at what attending college could look like. Being sat down with UNK graduates and asking any lingering questions about academic and personal life.

After participating in multiple workshops, it was time to head to the college fair. Many tables with different university departments were set up to educate students on the wide variety of majors and programs that UNK has to offer. There were military personnel, games, and candy to draw in crowds and inspire excitement about Loper Life.

Lunch was provided in the form of a delicious buffet. While eating, conference organizers gave awards and gifts to students and the staff of the Younes Center. Also, special guest actor Pepe Serna held an improv session and spoke about his early life and his adventures in Hollywood as a Hispanic American. The trailer for his documentary and short film were projected on big screens and then followed by a Q&A. 

To end the event on a light note, the last few hours were reserved for a baile(dance) to exert any leftover energy, let loose, and embrace our culture through the art of dancing.

Overall, the Nebraska Cultural Unity Conference is a UNK staple that attracts dozens of state schools to provide a place where cultural appreciation can flourish.