Valparaiso University Supports Ukrainian Refugees

Sept. 14, 2022 – Valparaiso, Indiana – Valparaiso University is pleased to announce a benefit choral concert for Ukraine on October 6, 2022, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel of the Resurrection. The concert will feature the renowned choral ensemble Cappella Romana, and audience donations will be accepted to benefit the nonprofit humanitarian organization, Rebuild Ukraine. 

“The war continues to take a toll, and Ukrainians urgently need aid,” said Nicholas Denysenko, Ph.D., Emil and Elfriede Jochum Chair  and organizer of the event. “Ukrainians are fighting for democracy, liberty, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. They share these values with all of us. Helping Ukrainians is a way of being true to our own values, and to ourselves.”

Rebuild Ukraine and their partners in Eastern Europe provide aid to the defenders, civilians and refugees of Ukraine. Since March 2022, the organization has raised over $370,000 in donations directly supporting Ukrainians with food, medical supplies, and medical equipment for Ukraine hospitals. Donations also go towards assisting with the education and rehabilitation of Ukrainian children traumatized by the war. According to Denysenko, attendees’ donations will have an impact closer to home than many realize.

“There are Ukrainian refugees living among us,” Denysenko said. “They are part of our community. We have an opportunity to learn their story.”

Cappella Romana is a professional vocal ensemble that sacred classical music in the Christian traditions of the East and West. The ensemble is specifically known for their Greek and Russian Orthodox choral work, as well as their recordings of Byzantine chanting and other sacred work in the inherited Christian tradition.

The concert is free and open to the public, with donations encouraged. Doors to the Chapel of the Resurrection open at 6:15 p.m. Parking will be available in lots 15 and 20. For a map of the parking lots at Valparaiso University, see here.