Solé Scott- Features Editor
Students dressed in their best fashions for a special night that only happens once every spring semester.
On Feb. 29, the Multicultural Center hosted the Heritage Ball in the Adanti Student Center Ballroom. The theme of the event was Met Gala.
Biological anthropology major Christian Marroquin, a sophomore, handcrafted his outfit.
“I bought the vest and the pants and the shirt from Goodwill. Then after that, I went to JoAnn’s and made the arm sleeves,” Marroquin said. “I made the trail to it, and I just had gold chains around my house and just simply used that.”
Education major Danika Smith, a sophomore, attended the extravaganza with friends. Smith described what she decided to wear to the event.
“A black dress, backless and some cute heels,” Smith said.
Communication major Alani Brown-Jones, a sophomore, dressed up with friends for the party.
“I’m wearing a little pretty black lace dress and black heels,” Brown-Jones said.
As soon as students entered the hallway outside the ballroom, they were greeted with a red carpet and a photo backdrop where pictures could be taken.
Before entering the event, students had to check in with staff at a table to make sure they had RSVP’d or paid for any remaining tickets.
“For me, I went last spring semester, and I really enjoyed it,” Marroquin said.
The Heritage Ball started at 7 p.m. and ended around 1 a.m.
There were police officers patrolling the event the entire night to ensure students’ safety.
Officer Chris Cinque attended his first Heritage Ball event.
“We are just here to provide general security because of the amount of people who are going to be here tonight,” Cinque said.
Joining Officer Cinque was Officer Tom Glassow.
“I have worked the gala ball in the past. I think it is a great opportunity because we have a diverse university,” Glassow said.
There was a dance floor in the middle of the room and numerous tables around the room.
The event had a plethora of drinks and food such as jerk chicken and yellow rice.
“You get to meet people from all different walks of life, and all the different foods that are represented are pretty cool,” Glassow said.
The Carribean Student Association dance team entertained the crowd by performing a group dance.
There also was a tae kwon do act where performers jumped high in the air to kick and break planks of wood.
Audience members were engaged in both acts.
“What the university does is they hire police officers to provide public safety presence, just make sure everybody has a safe environment to enjoy the night,” Glassow said.
During the ball, certain students involved on campus were awarded certificates in recognition of their hard work.
By the end of the night, all the students were on the dance floor as the DJ played energetic music.
“I am expecting to see people be celebrated for what they deserve and to have a good time,” Brown-Jones said.
