What started off as a shared interest between two best friends about culture and community has grown into one of Independence High School’s most inclusive student organizations. The culture club continues to unite students through meaningful conversations, culture, events, and student leadership. To better understand the club’s impact on campus, both the Culture Club’s sponsor and its president share their perspectives on the organization’s goals and influence.
Mark Muradian, Spanish teacher and Culture Club’s sponsor, has described, “It started two years ago when a student, Tiffany Vu, came to me with a wonderful idea to have a Culture Club due to the school’s vast diversity.” Muradian explained that the creation of this club was so the students at this school could not only feel safe and seen but also enjoy different cultures together. Since the beginning of the club, there has been a great sense of community between its members, and many students express their excitement for each meeting.
Due to the club’s success in meeting its purpose of promoting inclusivity and a strong community, Muradian has stated what he wants for the future of the club. “One thing we were thinking of was having a field trip to the music museum or having a culture festival where every member brings different foods and activities to share with the school,” Muradian has stated. For the meantime, however, the culture club has two potlucks per school year, and every meeting there is a different snack provided by the person presenting their culture. The club’s success has been deeply impacted by the sponsors’ hard work and dedication.
Culture Club president Mia Gardillas has shared the impact of playing such an important role in the culture club. It all began when she co-founded the Culture Club with her best friend, Tiffany Vu. They were inspired by other schools’ Culture Clubs and wanted to share inclusivity with Independence High School. Gardillas states, “Our first ever meeting back in February 2024 stood out to me. Being the first meeting, we were overwhelmed by support and participation. The presenter was our co-founder Tiffany Vu, sharing about Vietnam. She had brought these delicious egg rolls, which everyone loved and enjoyed. This meeting was the perfect way to start the club.”
From that point forward, club meetings consist of different people giving presentations about their culture and sharing a delicious snack at the end. Gardillas states, “Culture Club has impacted me by expanding on my leadership roles and providing direction with my fellow officers to plan and organize meetings, potlucks, and club rush. As someone who hopes to travel the world, the presentations give me insight into future travels and experiences.” The club has had an exceptional impact on each of its members. If your interest has grown for this Culture Club, make sure to pay attention to announcements for their next meeting, as the club will welcome you with open arms.
