Gavilan College community celebrates National Hispanic Heritage month
by Jan Janes on Oct 22, 2021Celebrate with us! National Hispanic Heritage month, October 15-November 15, is a time to celebrate the contributions, history, and culture of those who come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
El Centro, Gavilan College’s one stop source for students, kicked off National Hispanic Heritage month with a campus celebration.
Departments, clubs and organizations shared their specialties and made it a fun day, as students played Jenga, Cornhole and Connect 4 on the expansive lawn.
During the event, the Food Pantry was open to students. The Food Pantry is a partnership between the college, CalWORKS, Fresh Success, Associated Students of Gavilan College, Second Harvest Food Bank and St. Joseph Family Center. Nearly half of all college students experience food insecurity each month. The program offers canned foods and fresh produce to Gavilan students and a twice-monthly drive through food bank for the community.
Associated Students of Gavilan College offered a table where students could decorate pumpkins.
Active Minds club members talked with students about mental health and resources available through the college. Young adults and students experiencing mental health issues often don’t seek help or aren’t aware of services. They often share their struggles first with other students. The club offers videos, speakers and training about mental health awareness.
A taquero was on campus for two hours, treating students to chicken and carne asada tacos and trimmings.
In the afternoon, students dropped by the Career Transfer Center. In a temporary photo studio installed for the day, students posed for professionally photographed head shots, offered by Elevate Media.
El Centro started an Ofrenda in the library and encourages people to add to the display. College departments are engaged in a friendly competition of Ofrendas across campus. Dia de Los Muertos honors departed loved ones with an Ofrenda (altar). Learn more in this explainer.
Students staffed the Cosmetology department booth. While there, they showcased their make up design skills.
Olga Olvera and Annette Gutierrez, the event planners and staff of the program.
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