Hispanic Heritage Month

By Theresa Nguyen on September 29th, 2022 at 10:31 a.m.

From September 15th to October 15th, Vanguard University’s El Puente is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through a variety of culture-honoring events.

Dyane Velazquez (’23) poses before performing Las Amarillas, a traditional Mexican dance, at chapel.

“We want to celebrate students,” Monsserath Salazar, El Puente President states. “You bring something to the table that no one else is able to bring.”

Festivities began with the Noche de Fiesta on September 22nd from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Including a variety of Latin American snacks, music, and dance lessons, the Fiesta is an opportunity for Hispanic students to connect with their culture and share experiences among friends.

“I want students to say, ‘I grew up with that snack or that dance. You have to try it!’,” Salazar states.

Following the Fiesta is a soccer match on October 6th from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

“For Hispanic and Latin people, soccer has always been our passion,” says Salazar. “In our countries, soccer is a platform that allows people with fewer resources to rise up and work their way to becoming someone important. It shows that we have people that are gifted and talented.”

To cap off celebrations, El Puente’s Block Party commences on October 12th at 11:30 a.m.

“We’re not just celebrating our own accomplishments, but we’re celebrating the sacrifices, determination, and patience of the people that paved the way,” states Salazar.

As a Hispanic-Serving institution, it is important to ensure students of Hispanic descent have a sense of belonging. Thanks to El Puente’s festivities, students are able to feel seen and celebrated.

Learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month and El Puente on Instagram @elpuentevu.