Rector's Reception

Wow! I just returned from an amazing reception at Kuban State. Today is our last day in Krasnodar! It does not seem possible that three weeks have gone by already. However, we were very fortunate to have a wonderful send-off from our new friends at the university!

We were greeted by the Rector and Vice-Rector of the university. Both had kind words to share about our stay. They also presented us with gifts from the university! The staff had prepared a white table cloth dinner with covered seats for us. I felt like I was at a ball. The table was set with many appetizers and beverages when we arrived.

Throughout our meal, administrators, lecturers, group leaders (several of which are pictured to the right), and participants took turns giving toasts. In Russia, it is customary to give many toasts throughout the meal. We had a wonderful time talking to one another and sharing the wonderful memories we have had while in Krasnodar.

At the end of our meal, we took lots of pictures to remember everyone at Kuban State. I don't think we can put into words how wonderful the people in Krasnodar have been to us. This has been an amazing opportunity and one we will never forget! We are leaving Krasnodar tomorrow, but we will never forget the people we met and the friendships that we have made! Thanks Kelly and Sasha for making our Krasnodar leg absolutely fantastic!