A Western Kentucky University instructor is preparing a Thanksgiving Day meal for more than 200 international students, and their families and friends.
Julie Lee, a chef who teaches classes in the WKU Department of Applied Human Sciences, says she’s getting help from students—some of whom are volunteering, and others who are working for extra credit.
It’s the third year she’s hosted the meal, which will feature traditional Thanksgiving favorites like turkey and gravy.
“The only exception is that I’ve tried to prepare most of the sides as either vegetarian or vegan, in case anyone is vegetarian and does not want to have the turkey. Also, there’s no pork or beef items, so no bacon used in anything. But we’ll have macaroni and cheese, and green beans, and glazed carrots, and mashed potatoes, of course.”
For Lee, the meal is a communal experience meant to draw attendees closer together.
“I set the room up in long tables, so people have to sit with others if they come alone. And everyone chatted, and I went around and people made new friends and stayed for a couple of hours talking and eating—exactly what Thanksgiving is supposed to be.”
She says she wanted to invite all of WKU’s International students since many of them won’t have anywhere else to eat on campus that day.
The meal is being held in Academic Complex dining room Thursday from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
No RSVP is required.
