Hispanic Heritage Month
Every year from September–October 15, we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, a tribute dedicated to Hispanic/Latine Heritage. During this time, we pay tribute to the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latine community in the United States.
The observance of Hispanic/Latine Heritage month traces its origins back to 1968 and was officially enshrined into law in 1988. September 15 marks the inaugural day of this annual celebration is rooted in its connection to the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
As a Hispanic Serving Institution, we look forward to participating. This celebration is shared with fellow HSI-designated institutions across the nation to acknowledge and honor the collective efforts of more than 500 HSIs nationwide. These institutions play an invaluable role in educating and empowering Hispanic and Latine college students.
This year's theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together," which is meant to capture the Hispanic experience's "spirit of innovation, resilience,
and unity."
Throughout this month, we will host special programming and events on our campuses. We encourage you to participate and find ways throughout the entire year to support, celebrate, and acknowledge our students, faculty, staff as well as our friends and neighbors who make our greater Hispanic/Latine community such an integral part of our college and our state.
We are also launching a celebratory campaign at each campus and on social media to recognize inspiring Hispanic members of our faculty and staff. If you would like to nominate a colleague, please fill out our submission form and share with us how and why that particular faculty or staff member inspires you on a daily basis. We will share submissions on this page and in future editions of Knight Knowledge.
CCRI Library Book Displays
Sponsored by CCRI’s Learning Commons
🗓️ September 13–October 15
📍 All campus Libraries
CCRI Learning Commons on all four campuses are proud to present a curated collection of books highlighting the rich diversity, culture, and contributions of Hispanic authors. The collection, available at all CCRI Library locations, offers students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to engage with a variety of voices that reflect the cultural heritage and literary achievements of Hispanic and Latinx authors.
Portraits: A Visual Telling of Hispanic and Latinè Stories
Organized by the Office of Student Engagement
🗓️ September 25–26
📍 Providence Campus (Atrium)
🗓️ September 30–October 1
📍 Warwick Campus (Great Hall)
🗓️ October 2–3
📍 Lincoln Campus (Cafeteria)
🗓️ October 7–8
📍 Newport County Campus (Atrium)
Visibility is a powerful tool. The Office of Student Engagement will be hosting PORTRAITS, a visual event featuring images of prominent members of the Hispanic and Latinè community throughout history, complete with biographies for attendees to learn more about the community and celebrate its members. The event will include an information desk with giveaways and handouts explaining how CCRI supports and celebrates its Hispanic and Latinè members.
2024 Fiesta Latina
Sponsored by CCRI Admissions and Conexion Latina
🗓️ Saturday, September 21
⏰ 12–6 pm
📍 Newport Campus (Great Friends Meeting House Lawn)
Stop by CCRI’s table at the 2024 Fiesta Latina hosted by Conexion Latina for free giveaways! This community event celebrates the contributions and cultures of the Hispanic Community on Aquidneck Island.
Muralists and Community Spaces
Sponsored by CCRI’s DEI Council and The Sullivan Foundation
🗓️ Wednesday, September 25
⏰ 1–2 pm
📍 Lincoln Campus (Room 1336)
Join local artists Marta V. Martinez, Executive Director of Rhode Island Latino Arts, and RILA Mural Artist Rene Gomez as they share with the community how muralists and art can be used to create a sense of belonging in community spaces. Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to attend.
Celebrating Hispanic Cultures – Presentation and “Open Mic”
Sponsored by CCRI’s Department of World Languages and Cultures
🗓️ Thursday, September 26
⏰ 11 am–1 pm
📍 Warwick Campus (Great Hall)
Join faculty from CCRI’s Department of World Languages and Cultures for a presentation on the origins of Hispanic Heritage Month and a celebration of Hispanic cultures, followed by an “Open Mic” for students, faculty, and staff to express and share their own cultural experiences through spoken word, poetry, music, and other art forms.
Pin Tu Bandera (Pin Your Flag)
Organized by the Office of Student Engagement
🗓️ Monday, October 7
⏰ 11 am–2 pm
📍 Lincoln Campus (Cafeteria)
🗓️ Tuesday, October 8
⏰ 11 am–2 pm
📍 Newport County Campus (Atrium)
🗓️ Wednesday, October 9
⏰ 11 am–2 pm
📍 Warwick Campus (Great Hall)
🗓️ Thursday, October 10
⏰ 11 am–2 pm
📍 Providence Campus (Atrium)
Represent with pride! The Office of Student Engagement invites you to create your very own custom CCRI Hispanic and Latinè Heritage Month Pin. A pin can be more than just an accessory, it can be a representation of our identities. Proudly present to your peers, family, and friends your support for the Hispanic and Latinè community through this fun craft.
Hispanic Heritage Month Concert
Sponsored by CCRI’s Performing Arts Department, CCRI Foundation and the Office of
OD/DEI🗓️ Thursday, October 10
⏰ 1–3 pm
📍 Warwick Campus (Bobby Hackett Theatre)
Join faculty from CCRI’s Performance Arts Department and CCRI alums for an afternoon of music and theater to celebrate Hispanic artists, musicians and playwrights. Guests include CCRI alums actor, director, and playwright David Valentin; actor and poet Rudy Cabrera; and saxophonist Fernando Marzon and friends.
Cultivating Entrepreneurship with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Sponsored by CCRI’s DEI Council and Career Service
🗓️ Wednesday, October 16
⏰ 11 am–1 pm
📍 Providence Campus (Atrium)
The Cultivating Entrepreneurship event will be an information session and Q&A in collaboration with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 10KSB, and the CCRI Business department. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce provides support to small start-ups in the form of grants, funding, and legal assistance, specifically tailored to the Hispanic/Latino community in the state. This event is geared to students that are interested in starting a business and want tips on how to begin.
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's Latino Supplier Summit
Sponsored by CCRI’s DEI Council, Career Services, and Student Affairs
🗓️ Thursday, October 24
⏰ 4–7 pm
📍 Providence Campus (Atrium)
The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Latino Supplier Summit will serve as a meet and greet event for Latino-owned businesses and Rhode Island companies looking to expand their vendor list with a diverse business network.
Who inspires you?
We encourage all faculty and staff members to recognize inspiring Hispanic co-workers by filling out our submission form and sharing with us how and why that particular faculty or staff member inspires you on a daily basis. We will share submissions on this page and in future editions of Knight Knowledge. Congratulations to all who've been nominated!
Jetzabel Mills, Student Development Counselor
"She is very smart, compassionate, funny as heck and really cares about the students.
But most of all, she has asthma like myself and comes to work every day and does
a great job despite any challenges she might have from her asthma. She is a hero of
mine."
– Arthur Sepe, Student Development Counselor
"I appreciate the way Jetzabel advocates for their students and colleagues at CCRI. She really embodies student first and equity for all. She's a great addition to CCRI! She brings the sazón."– Omar Manzo, Student Success Coach/Advising
Yamel Chinchilla, Executive Director, Adult Education
"Over the last 2 years, Yamel has been a huge support system in my life. She deeply
cares about the community at CCRI and goes above and beyond to support her students
and peers in every possible way. I have known her inside and outside work and am grateful
for all she has done. She is an amazing leader who guides with respect and love. Truly,
she is the perfect representation of a powerful Latina!"
– Laura Romero, Providence Campus Coordinator, Student Affairs
Jessica Araujo, Assistant Professor, English
"Professor Jessica Araujo embodies the essence of passionate teaching and unwavering
commitment to her students and the CCRI community. In just a few short years, she
has made a remarkable impact by developing innovative courses that ignite curiosity
and enthusiasm among her students. Her initiative in creating a vibrant literary magazine
showcases her dedication to fostering creative expression and collaboration. She is
an active community member, serving on several committees and contributing to the
continual improvement of our college. Beyond her accomplishments, it is her genuine
relationships with students that truly set her apart—she inspires them to explore
their potential while creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment. The
energy and excitement that Jessica brings to her work contributes greatly to the English
Department and the wider college community."
– Eileen James, Associate Professor, English
Yohanna Gomez, EOC Coordinator Counselor
"Yohanna is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment she arrived at CCRI as
a work-study student in 1998, fresh out of Central High School, she has been a beacon
of excellence and dedication. Despite having only been in the U.S. for a few years,
Yohanna, a proud native of the Dominican Republic, flourished at CCRI and became an
active participant in the Access Program. Her initial dream of becoming a teacher
evolved over time, but her unwavering passion for education and serving others remained
constant.
– Stephanie M. Cruz, Educational Opportunity Center
Lemuel Alvarez, Technical Support Specialist II/Information Technology Department
"I am delighted to recommend Lemuel Alvarez (Lemmy) whose dedication and leadership have been an inspiration to many, particularly within our Hispanic community at CCRI."From the moment Lemmy joined our team, as a student worker in the Academic Computer Lab, to now as a fulltime technical Support Specialist, he has exemplified hard work, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. His ability to connect with others, share experiences, and uplift those around him creates an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to succeed.
"Lemmy has consistently taken the initiative to mentor fellow Hispanic student workers and part timers, encouraging them to pursue their goals and navigate challenges with confidence. He embodies the spirit of the Hispanic culture, celebrating their heritage while also pushing for innovation and growth within the workplace.
"Moreover, Lemmy's contributions to technology initiatives have not only driven results but have also served as a platform for diverse voices within our organization. Lemmy is a shining example of what it means to lead with empathy and purpose.
"I wholeheartedly nominate Lemmy for any opportunity that allows him to continue inspiring others. He is not just a valuable asset to our team but also a beacon of hope and motivation for CCRI students."
– Lynn Gudeczauskas, Educational Opportunity Center
"Lemmy always goes above and beyond what is expected from him everyday."– Mike McNally, Information Technology
Laura Romero, Office of Student Affairs
"Laura infuses all of her work with intentionality, thought leadership, and enthusiasm. Her great ideas led to a collaborative effort driving two upcoming fall events with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce."– Samantha Sgourakes, Career Services
Manuel Jourdain, Student Success Coach/Advising
"Manuel recently started in their role and has been doing tremendous work with his students! He is proud to be from Providence and has been an amazing addition to the advising team. Thank you Manuel for all you bring to work everyday! I'm grateful to have you on the team, hermano."– Omar Manzo, Student Success Coach/Advising
Cármen Vásquez, Student Success Coach/Advising
"Cármen is such a wonderful colleague! She always checks in on the team and ensures we're doing well. I can tell she has a big heart and is doing the work because she really cares about her students. Vamos Cármen! Gracias por todo lo que haces."– Omar Manzo, Student Success Coach/Advising
Brenda Pacheco, Coordinator, Institutional Advancement
"Brenda has been a fixture with CCRI for many years, helping many students navigate different issues that students have in their endeavors while in pursuit of their degree while she a member of Student Life, (now known as Student Engagement). I am sure that in her position she will be that much of help for students."– Charles Anthony Padgett, Event Supervisor/Athletics
Moises Lopez, Senior Programmer Analyst for Enterprise Systems
"Moises goes above and beyond while delivering expert support to all his clients. He has brought skills from his previous position working tech support and has helped all of us often with his abilities. He is eager to learn and has been an integral part of the Enterprise team while developing the new Experience user interface."– Ron Walker, Lead Programmer Analyst
Lazaro A. Recinos, Senior Janitor
"The addition of Tony to the Liston Campus has been something the campus has been lacking for sometime now. Tony has improved both the interior and exterior of the campus – always in motion giving help to both staff and students whatever task take I have him take on."– James W. Reedy, Building and Grounds Officer, Providence Campus
Candelaria Danicher, EOC Coordinator/Advisor
"Candelaria consistently goes above and beyond to support all our students. As a native of the Dominican Republic, she offers invaluable additional support to our Hispanic students. Her dedication extends beyond the college, as she actively volunteers in the community, making her a true advocate for our Hispanic community. We deeply appreciate all that she does."– Yamel Chinchilla, Executive Director of Adult Education
Joshua Ribezzo, Talent Acquisition Specialist/HR
"Josh has the most infectious personality. He is always smiling and brightens each room he enters. Josh is willing to go the extra mile to help anyone within our department and in the institution. I'm inspired by Josh each day to be a better colleague."– Valerie England, Talent Acquisition Specialist/HR
Luis Paz, Higher Education Administrative Assistant III
"Luis Paz is an exceptional administrative assistant, serving with grace, dedication, and positivity. His contributions to the creation of the new department of Communication and Media have been immense and continue still. Luis is gifted with creativity, technological prowess, and resourcefulness. His hopeful and generous spirit shines a light in our department and for all those that visit. CCRI is fortunate to have Luis as part of the college for he embodies the mission and goals that we aim to achieve."– Sandra Luzzi Sneesby, Chair, Communication and Media
"Luis is a ray of sunshine in an increasingly busy department! He greets everyone with a smile and exceptionally polite demeanor- in English or Spanish! His technical knowledge has helped nearly all of us at one time or another and he is quick to help after hours for any student event. Cooperative and supportive, he will find a way to solve a problem. His determination is an inspiration."– Kristin Dummer, Assistant Professor, Communication, Media and Film
Dr. Joseph Amante y Zapata, Performing Arts Department Chair
"Joseph is an inspiring colleague and boss! He is always quick to help students, faculty, and staff at CCRI. He is an excellent leader, mentor, and friend. Recent accomplishments celebrating Hispanic Heritage include: Missa Criolla Concert in collaboration with URI Music, El Mesias Concert (the first performance of Handel's Messiah in Spanish in Rhode Island) in collaboration with NaBSCO, CCRI Foundation Grant for Zarzella and Mariachi Concert at CCRI, creation and implementation of a new course at CCRI in Latin Music."– Krista Wilhelmsen, Associate Professor and Lead Teacher, Performing Arts
Digna Arias, Office Manager, One Stop Student Services
"Digna is a diligent, positive, and attentive colleague. Her dedication to resolving student and faculty questions and concerns is unmatchable. She is a team player, a kind soul, and the definition of marching to the beat of your drum! We appreciate you, Digna, for all you have done and continue to do to help support the Advising Department."– Carmen Vazquez, Advising Department
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