Gratitude Along the Journey During Hispanic Heritage Month 

Posted on October 12, 2023

UNCG student plays guitar on stage during talent show

As Hispanic Heritage month comes to a close, UNC Greensboro thanks everyone who attended and participated in the celebrations students, faculty, and staff offered on campus. Throughout this month, UNCG had the privilege of exploring the rich traditions, history, and experiences that shape the vibrant Hispanic and Latino culture.  

“For me, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrating my identity and being proud in that, honoring all the sacrifices that my parents made and my ancestors made. Honoring that part of my identity,” says Office of Intercultural Engagement Student Ambassador Abigail Herrera-Leal. 

Events at UNCG centered on the reflections, celebrations, and connections offered to Hispanic and Latino students, faculty, and staff. They included community talks, a symposium of student and faculty leaders, and a talent show. OIE student ambassadors played a key role in discussions on how to make these events impactful.  

“For us, student voice is very important, and they play a very important role in what they want to see on campus,” says Marisa Gonzalez, assistant director of OIE. 

These events provide a glimpse into the incredible journey we embarked on during Hispanic Heritage Month. We witnessed the resilience and determination of the Hispanic community, as well as the profound impact of cultural wellness and success in their lives. 

It is important to UNCG to recognize the collective enthusiasm and support that has made this month-long celebration a success. We are grateful to all the individuals who shared their stories, experiences, and reflections, as well as those who attended and participated in the events. Your contributions have created a deeper sense of appreciation and understanding of Hispanic culture. Hispanic Heritage Month at UNCG has been a testament to unity, storytelling, and diversity aiming to celebrate and honor those who have come before us to foster a stronger and more united community. 

“It’s about empowering your culture and your heritage, understanding where you came from, your origins, your family history, and also how you can embrace that,” says OIE Student Ambassador Fatima Galvan-Ruiz. “It’s about balancing different cultures because we’re Hispanic, but in a sense, we’re transitioned into American culture as well. Hispanic Heritage Month shouldn’t be the only month when you think about your heritage and where you came from.” 

Story by Dana Broadus, University Communications
Photography by Sean Norona, University Communications

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