In 1964, a small group of Alliance College students, led by the talented and enthusiastic Gardenia Wojtuszewska, came together to learn more about their Polish heritage through traditional folk dance. What began as a student initiative soon grew into Kujawiaki, an accomplished Polish folk song and dance ensemble that would become one of Alliance College’s most recognized cultural ambassadors.

In 1965, Jan Sejda became the ensemble’s first director. An original member of Poland’s renowned Mazowsze folk ensemble, Sejda brought extensive experience in ballet, theater, choreography and Polish folklore. He had traveled throughout the Polish countryside studying and preserving regional songs and dances, and he brought that knowledge to the students of Alliance College.

Under his leadership, Kujawiaki became a disciplined performing ensemble, presenting its first performances in May 1965. Members dedicated countless hours to rehearsals, intensive summer workshops, learning choreography, mastering music and preparing the elaborate costumes that brought Poland’s regional traditions to life.

Over the years, the ensemble grew under directors Ronald Galasinski, Christine Marchewka-Pawlowski, and Lawrence G. Kozlowski. Each contributed new ideas, artistic influences, and cultural knowledge while maintaining Kujawiaki’s commitment to authenticity and excellence. Professor Blair Matejczyk, the ensemble’s longtime technical director, also played an important role in supporting its productions.

Kujawiaki performed extensively throughout the United States, introducing audiences to the beauty and diversity of Polish folk culture. One of its defining achievements came in 1977, when the ensemble traveled to Poland for an international performance tour. There, members participated in the World Festival of Polish Song and Dance in Rzeszów, performed for Polish audiences, and exchanged cultural knowledge with other folk ensembles. The experience strengthened their connection to the traditions they had studied and represented.

But Kujawiaki’s importance extended far beyond the stage. The ensemble became a close-knit community within Alliance College, creating lasting friendships, shared experiences, and a deep appreciation for Polish heritage.

Its influence continued long after students graduated. Former members carried their knowledge and love of Polish culture into communities across the country, where many continued performing, teaching, and participating in Polish folk dance organizations. For some, Kujawiaki also brought together future husbands and wives, creating families whose connections to Polish culture would continue through children and grandchildren.

Today, Kujawiaki remains an important part of the Alliance College legacy — a reminder of how a small group of students in Cambridge Springs helped preserve and share Polish cultural traditions far beyond their college years.