Newberry College Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month with Exciting Events and Activities

Newberry College Kicks Off National Hispanic Heritage Month with Exciting Events

NEWBERRY — As the calendar turns to September, the vibrant buzz of celebration fills the air in Newberry as Newberry College gears up to honor **National Hispanic Heritage Month**! From September 15 to October 15, the college, alongside various local organizations, invites everyone to join in on a month filled with enriching activities that highlight the diverse and rich cultures of the Hispanic community.

A Month of Celebration

Kickstarting the festivities, Dr. Altheia Richardson, the college’s vice president for diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging, expressed her enthusiasm about the month-long celebration. “Newberry College is proud to be celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month to highlight the richness of the Hispanic cultures and their contributions to our campus and community,” she shared. Dr. Richardson’s words reflect the collaborative spirit that has shaped this year’s lineup, with students, staff, faculty, and community members working closely together to create a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Fun and Informative Events

This year’s events promise a delightful mix of informative displays and engaging activities. One of the highlights of the month will be a **Hispanic Heritage Month display** at the Wessels Library. This unique showcase will allow visitors to explore various aspects of Hispanic culture, ensuring that everyone walks away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the contributions made by Hispanic individuals.

Mark your calendars for an additional display dedicated to the Day of the Dead, which will be held from October 31 to November 2. This celebration, often considered a festive occasion in many Latin American cultures, acknowledges and honors deceased loved ones and promises to provide a beautiful showcase of traditional practices and symbols.

Community Involvement

The list of sponsors for this celebratory month reflects a strong commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. The sponsors include Newberry College’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging, Muller Center for Multicultural & Civic Engagement, the Office of Student Life, and Newberry College Athletics. Community partners such as Metz Culinary Management, the City of Newberry, and various local businesses have also joined the fun, making it a true communal effort.

A Rich Legacy

National Hispanic Heritage Month has significant roots in the celebration of Hispanic and Latino American contributions to the United States. The observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week, initiated by President Lyndon Johnson, and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a full month. This period not only honors the wealth of cultures stemming from countries like Spain, Mexico, Cuba, and those in Central and South America, but it also coincides with the independence days of seven Latin American nations.

Get Involved!

Whether you’re a student, a professor, or just someone in the community eager to learn more about the Hispanic cultures, there’s something for everyone to engage with during this month-long celebration. To delve deeper into the events scheduled, feel free to reach out! Dr. Richardson can be contacted through her email, or you can also get in touch with Carlton Kinard, the associate director for multicultural & civic engagement.

Wrap Up

So, gather your friends and family and swing by Newberry College this month! You’ll not only get a chance to celebrate, but you’ll also help foster an atmosphere of unity and understanding within the community. Let’s make this National Hispanic Heritage Month one to remember!