Hispanic Affairs

Opportunities

Our main purpose is to provide you with the tools you need for success: financial and academic assistance, moral support, and a comfortable environment where you can properly function as a student and as a person. We will help you feel at home in an area where you can interact with people of similar experiences and backgrounds so your culture is preserved. This department also organizes programs and events throughout the academic year, such as Hispanic Heritage Month through Women’s History Month. Events and programs typically consist of interactive presentations, workshops, socials, and activities to create cultural awareness. We are all part of a big “familia”! We look forward to meeting you. ¡Hablamos español!

Employment Application

Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is from Sept. 15th- Oct. 15th. Celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. It was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on Sept. 15th and ending on Oct. 15th. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17th, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The fifteenth day of September is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18. The department is always open to suggestions for events!

Multicultural Sashing Ceremony

The Multicultural Affairs Sashing Ceremony is a special moment for graduates on their accomplishments, their families, and friends. It is a time to celebrate cultural diversity, reflect on the journey, and look forward to the future. Students are sashed personally by the university's Chancellor with a zarape or sash of their country of origin. The ceremony is planned for the last Friday of April at 6:00 p.m. A heavy hors d'oeuvres reception is provided before the event at 5:00 p.m. The theme varies every year. Graduates MUST have registered for Commencement and reserved a zarape or sash of country of origin with the Multicultural Affairs Department at least a month before the event via email (no exceptions). Emails will be sent yearly with all the details.