Fitchburg State University announced its schedule of programming for Hispanic Heritage Month, running Sept. 15 through Oct. 21. Aligned with the national theme, “Unidos, Somos Más. Together, We Are More,” the university’s celebrations highlight the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in education, leadership, advocacy and the arts.
The monthlong lineup honors the 20 recognized countries and territories, including Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. All events are supported by the Newman Center Trust Fund and coordinated by the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness alongside student organizations.
“This programming reflects our commitment to fostering a campus environment where every student feels valued and connected,” said Fitchburg State Director of Student Belonging Krysta Lopez-Acevedo. “By engaging in these shared experiences and dialogue, our university community comes together to honor these distinct cultural traditions while building a stronger, more inclusive Fitchburg State.”
Schedule of Events:
- Flag Raising Kickoff: Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2:30–3:30 p.m. at Hammond Plaza — Official kickoff ceremony raising the Hispanic Heritage Month flag.
- Culture Clash (Meet the E-Boards: ASA, BSU, CASA, LASO): Saturday, Sept. 19, 2:30–6:30 p.m. at Main Quad — Outdoor cookout featuring cultural food, music and student leaders.
- Piña Colada Making Class: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 3:30–5:30 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Hands-on mocktail workshop on the history and mixology of the island beverage.
- Bomba Night with LASO: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 6–8 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Interactive Afro-Puerto Rican cultural workshop featuring live drumming, dance and food.
- CASA Splash & Serve Car Wash: Saturday, Sept. 26, 9 a.m.–noon at 99 Restaurants, 275 Summer St. — Caribbean Student Association fundraiser ($5 minimum donation).
- Voices of Hispanic Professionals (Faculty & Staff Panel): Wednesday, Sept. 30, 4–6 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Panel discussion on career journeys and leadership.
- Disney Pixar “Coco” Movie Screenings: Wednesday, Oct. 7, 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Ellis White Lecture Hall — Film screenings celebrating family traditions and Día de los Muertos.
- Noche Latina: Tuesday, Oct. 13, 5:30–9 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Evening of authentic Latin American cuisine, community and connection.
- Let's Taco Bout Your Career: Thursday, Oct. 15, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at Hammond G-Lobby — Networking event featuring career conversations and themed treats.
- Sofrito Workshop: Thursday, Oct. 15, 3:30–5:30 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Culinary class teaching the preparation and significance of homemade sofrito.
- Voices of Hispanic Professionals (Alumni & Community Members Panel): Wednesday, Oct. 21, 4–6 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Panel featuring university alumni and community members sharing professional insights.
Fitchburg State is committed to providing a comfortable, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of our community. If you have access needs or would like to request accommodations to fully participate in these events, please contact cdioffice@fitchburgstate.edu or at 978.665.3701 two weeks in advance of the event.
The Hispanic Heritage Month events are made possible by the support of the Newman Center Trust Fund. Every Fitchburg State University event welcomes all members of the university community.