On Friday, October 13, Purdue University Northwest (PNW) celebrated Hispanic and Latino heritage with its third annual Hispanic Heritage Festival. Students, faculty, staff and community members gathered at PNW’s Hammond campus to embrace and learn about all the beauties of Hispanic culture.
“It’s really important for us to hold events like this here at Purdue Northwest because we are a Hispanic-serving institution – over 25% of our students are Hispanic. It’s nice to show some representation for our students and their families and give them the chance to share their culture with the community,” said Iris Sanchez, director of Hispanic-Serving Institution Initiatives.
PNW holds many events throughout its annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration to recognize Latin American ethnicities and provide opportunities to learn more about Hispanic culture. The Hispanic Heritage Festival is the annual marquee event. What makes the event even more wonderful is that it provides the entire community with a chance to celebrate, not just the campus.
“PNW embraces diversity on so many levels. It feels good to work for an institution that not only values culture on campus but understands the need to promote these types of events within our community,” said Christina Maldonado, parent, community, and early education liaison.
PNW invited several businesses within the community to take part in the event. Food trucks served delicious cuisine while numerous artisan vendors sold jewelry, clothing, art, and other crafts.
“It’s nice to see all our students and staff and people from the community come together in one place. This event helps connect the community with the college. We get to invite different business owners in and collaborate with them and our students get to learn even more which is so important,” said Sanchez.
Musical entertainment also highlighted the night. Acts included Xel-Ha Escuela De Danza Mariachi and Mariachi Monumental De Mexico.
“From the music to the food to the artistry, there’s just so much beauty in Hispanic culture. I hope everyone who is Hispanic feels proud to have their culture highlighted,” said Maldonado.
Several PNW organizations also set up booths at the event to talk to people about all the different resources that are available on campus to support Hispanic students.
“I hope everyone walked away today feeling welcomed and understanding that Purdue University Northwest is a school that advocates for diversity. I hope everyone had a wonderful time and was able to learn more about the resources we have to support the Latino community,” said Sanchez.
Ultimately, this year’s Hispanic Heritage Festival was a great way to bring everyone together to celebrate a vibrant cultures and values.
“Hispanic people have a long history in Northwest Indiana. We’re a very hardworking culture – we’ve made many positive contributions to the community and continue to do so. I hope that everyone has the opportunity to learn more about the positive beauty of our culture during Hispanic Heritage Month,” said Maldonado.
To learn more about Purdue University Northwest and its cultural celebrations, visit www.pnw.edu.
