Unidos in Celebration: Hispanic Heritage Month at San Jac
San Jacinto College observed Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) at each campus with events and activities for students, faculty, and staff. This year’s theme was "Unidos," or united.
"We chose Unidos ... because we wanted to focus on making the events something that will bring the whole college together," said Nicole Burgin, Hispanic Heritage Committee co-chair. "We feel the dance especially helped us all feel a sense of unity."
Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the achievements and contributions of Hispanic-American champions who have inspired others to succeed. With a Hispanic student population of more than 60%, San Jac is a Hispanic-Serving Institution, making it even more significant to celebrate.
New this year was the El Homecoming dance at the North Campus, hosted in partnership with student engagement and support. The College-wide dance — open to all students, faculty, staff, and alumni — featured salsa lessons, snacks, and entertainment by Calle Swing.
Combined, San Jac’s Hispanic Heritage Month events saw more than 700 attendees, celebrating the cultural significance and contributions of Hispanic people.
The committee received Student Success Initiative grants to help fund these events, as well as essay and art contest prizes. The contests were open to all current students, and winners received scholarships up to $500.
The art contest winners were:
- First place: Johanna Fraga, “Huacalxochitl”
- Second place: Joseph Mosquera, "Papi Juan y Mami Ruth"
- Third place: David Morales
The essay contest winners were:
- First place: Luis Salazar, “Un Encuentro Inolvidable (An Unforgettable Encounter)”
- Second place: Drashti Desai, "The Strength of Togetherness: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage at San Jacinto College"
- Third place: Marina Lopez Campos, "Hispanic Heritage: The Impacts of Community"
