Rockland Community College celebrates Hispanic History Month with a series of presentations and activities saluting the contributions and achievements of Hispanics/Latinos. All events are free and open to the public. Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) is recognized nationally from September 15 to October 15.
At RCC, students of Hispanic/Latino heritage constitute a full 27 percent of the student body. “The College proudly celebrates the rich and diverse cultures of the various Spanish-speaking countries that many of our students come from,” said Josephine Tarsia, Associate Professor of Spanish and Italian, and a coordinator of the HHM activities at RCC. “During this special time, we take the opportunity to enjoy concerts, exhibits, movie showings, book discussions, educational activities, and our yearly Hispanic Heritage Award presentations.”
The festival kicks off September 20 with a celebration of Mexico and concludes on October 18 with a Career Mosaic from the Hispanic/Latino perspective. The lineup of events is as follows:
Thursday, September 20, 3 – 4 p.m., Academic II, Room 2315
Take a visual travelogue of the colorful culture and rich history of Mexico via viewing of the “Ultimate Mexico: Globe Trekker” video. Interesting facts will be discussed about our southern neighbor, home of a complex, 4,000-year-old civilization. Program is facilitated by Professor Josephine Tarsia.
Tuesday, September 25, 2 – 3 p.m., Academic II, Room 2309
Professor Konstadinos Ritsatos offers a presentation on the history of Spain from the Roman Era to the Reconquista. The discussion will touch on the people, cultures and events that were pivotal in the creation of a united Spain.
Wednesday, September 26, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Ellipse (Room 8180), Technology Center
Film screening of “Documented” and Q&A with Jose Antonio Vargas. In 2011, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Vargas identified himself as an undocumented immigrant in an article in The New York Times Magazine. “Documented” chronicles his journey to America from the Philippines as a child; his public struggle as an immigration reform activist/provacateur; and his journey inward as he reconnects with his mother, whom he hasn’t seen in 20 years. Funding for this diversity programming was provided by a SUNY Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) grant for 2018-19.
Thursday, September 27, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Student Union, Room 3214
Make a Piñata!
Participants will make a colorful piñata and fill it with candy and other “goodies.” All supplies will be provided. Event is facilitated by Ms. Yaritza Santana of Student Services, a co-chair of the HHM organizing committee.
Thursday, October 18, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Ellipse (Room 8180), Technology Center
Career Mosaic: Hispanic/Latino Perspective
Successful professionals from a broad range of careers, including education, law enforcement, business and mental health, will speak about their career paths, their experience as students, how they overcame obstacles and chose their careers, and the characteristics needed for success in any profession. Session is facilitated by Professor/Faculty Counselor Nilda Aragones and is held in collaboration with the Student Development Center and Student Career Services.
Monday, October 15, 5 p.m.
Application deadline for Hispanic Heritage Achievement Awards
RCC will choose five outstanding candidates for $200 scholarships to be awarded in their honor at a luncheon. To be eligible, students who have declared themselves to be of Hispanic heritage must have earned a minimum of 24 degree credits and have a minimum GPA of 3.0, among other requirements. Applications should be submitted to Professor Josephine Tarsia in Room 2331. For further information, contact Professor Tarsia at 845-574-4170.
Facebook Comments