Hispanic Heritage Celebration Month at CBC

Coastal Bend College is a Hispanic Serving Institute and has a Hispanic student population of over 70 percent. But what is a Hispanic? The federal government designates “Hispanic” as those whose roots include Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans, and other U.S. citizens and residents who trace their roots from Latin American countries and Spain. This group comprises over 17 percent of the U.S. population and is the youngest and fastest growing groups in America.

Hispanics have faced a range of economic and social barriers to educational attainment. Since 1965, CBC has provided all students with an affordable, accredited option to gain the educational background needed to succeed in life.

CBC proudly hosts events at each site in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

The Hispanic Heritage Celebration at CBC-Pleasanton was a huge success. Those in attendance learned about Hispanic stories and customs. Business owner Janice Gonzalez told the audience about her Chilean Hispanic background and boasted about the fabulous Chilean food she still makes and enjoys today. Pleasanton City Manager Johnny Huizar spoke of his journey to what paved the way for him to lead the City of Pleasanton. Retired Army Ranger Mike Lambardia emphasized the importance of education while speaking to his Hispanic heritage. Jourdanton City Secretary Debbie Molina along with Pleasanton resident Mary Gallegos spoke of their upbringing in a Hispanic family and how those customs and values are still alive today.

Immediately following the presentations, all in attendance were treated to a true Hispanic lunch including tamales, frijoles ranchero, mole, arroz and traditional aguas frescas. There was even a piñata filled with candy for all to enjoy!

CBC President, Dr. Espinoza is passionate about Hispanic education and is heavily involved in The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. At this year’s Partnership Luncheon in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Espinoza emceed, where the exemplary efforts of members were recognized. Dr. Espinoza is both personally and professionally committed to Hispanic higher education. Only 7% of PhD holders are Hispanic, which includes Dr. Espinoza.

At CBC Beeville, Hispanic Heritage Month was celebrated with three days of festivities including a grito contest and chalupas on Tuesday. On Wednesday, Santa Contreras Barraza, a native of Kingsville and contemporary Chicana/Tejana Artist presented her artwork and the meaning behind the art followed by an opportunity to have a copy of artwork signed by Santa Barraza free of charge. Continuing with the festivities, students and community members then received corn in a cup, Mexican pastries and Pan de Polvo. Then on Thursday, the fiesta festivities continued with Tortilla Making 101, a Sombrero toss contest, Loteria, and taco salad with sopapilla cake for lunch.

At CBC Kingsville, students, faculty, staff, and community members celebrated Hispanic Heritage month by having a regetton dance with tamales, rice, and beans for lunch followed by Pan Dulce for dessert.

At CBC Alice, there were corn cups, drinks, Hispanic music and Mexican documentaries played throughout the event.

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. This time frame is especially significant as September 15 is the is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Finally, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza falls on October 12, within the month of celebration.

Coastal Bend College is a proud Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) proudly serving the Hispanic population.