Dear campus community,
On Sept. 15, we began the celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month honoring those from the Latinx community who have contributed greatly to the American experience. The reason Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 was chosen for recognition is because many Latin American countries celebrate the anniversary of their independence within this time period.
The day of Sept. 15 is the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is Oct. 12, falls within this 30-day period.
The 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” This theme recognizes the trailblazers who have paved the way for future generations, recognizing the spirit of innovation, resilience and unity that defines the Hispanic experience. This is a call to action that acknowledges the past, builds on the progress made, and empowers the next generation of leaders to shape a brighter future.
The diversity on our campus is our strength. Clubs and departments are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with special events and activities acrpss campus. Please take a moment to recognize our colleagues Alfredo Balarin and Dashira Cortez in the Student Activities Office, Professor Malu Benton, who organizes the Día de los Muertos exhibit in the Marvin Library, and others.
We also welcome George Ambriz, dean of Enrollment Services, who joined our staff on Aug. 5. Ambriz was born and raised in Douglas, Arizona, which is a border-town to Agua Prieta, Sonora, México. As a first-generation student, Ambriz obtained college degrees from various institutions in the Southwest including an Associate’s Degree from a community college. He has served various roles at colleges and universities (Western New Mexico University, UNLV, College of Southern Nevada and Berkshire Community College) that serve Hispanic and other minority students, including Student Housing, Admissions, Academic Advising, Financial Aid, Career Services, Student Affairs and Enrollment Management positions. Being a bicoastal, bilingual professional and advocate, Ambriz brings valuable and diverse experience to the wonderful team he leads in Enrollment Services at Hudson Valley Community College
As a proud Latino, husband to a supportive wife and father of two boys, Ambriz is dedicated to ensuring that others are aware of the Latino community and its rich history in culture, food and language.
In service,
Ainsley Thomas
Chief Diversity Officer