Overview

At Governors State University there’s a good chance you’ll meet classmates who look a lot like you–or completely different. The diversity of our learning community makes us stand out – Everyone is welcome in here. Through inclusive programming, collaborative engagement, and holistic support, we are here to promote belonging and meaningful connections to the University and its many resources. The Center for Student Engagement and Leadership features a variety of programs and events highlighting the culture, traditions and contributions to honor the diversity of GovState students. Our staff works closely with students, faculty, staff, and community members to create a more engaged campus community. Whether you are interested in campus-wide events, being involved in student organizations, or building interpersonal relationships, there are a myriad of opportunities for Jaguars to Get Involved!


Hispanic Heritage Month 2025

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the unique voices and experiences of Hispanic Americans while recognizing their history, journeys, and achievements. Join the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership in collaboration  with the Latinx Resource Center, Association of Latin American Students for this festive celebration to honor the resilience and determination of the Hispanic community!

Event Schedule

All Month

Hispanic Heritage Month Visual Display

Location: B Wing Display Case
Event Overview: Experience the richness and diversity of the Hispanic culture. Learn about a variety of Hispanic traditions that highlight the unique contributions of the Latino community.

Monday, September 15

Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff

Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors Patio
Event Overview: As the GovState community begins the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, all Jaguars are invited to take part in this campuswide celebration! Enjoy the sounds of cultural music and savor Latin inspired food samples. This is a wonderful opportunity to honor Hispanic heritage in an inclusive space open to all. Whether you identify as Latinx or not, stop by for the Kickoff! Sponsored by the Latinx Resource Center in partnership with the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership.

Tuesday, September 16

Women’s Volleyball

Time: 7 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Nothing says community like volleyball at GovState! Come cheer, connect and celebrate as ALAS members support the Women's Volleyball team.

Wednesday, September 17

Alpha Psi Lambda Study Tables

Time: 2 – 4 p.m. (Every Wednesday)
Location: A2110
Event Overview: Join the campus fraternity, Alpha Psi Lambda National, Inc., every Wednesday for study sessions. All students welcome.


Legacy and Voice

Time: 3 – 4 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview Learn how voice, culture, identity, and purpose come together to create a lasting impact on the community. Sponsored by the Latinx Resource Center.

Thursday, September 18

Voluntarios - Community Service Day

Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: GovState Food Pantry (B1242)
Event Overview: "Change begins with everyday acts of kindness" (Dolores Huerta) Jaguars, come out to support the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council for an impactful day of service. Connect with other Jaguars while serving your GovState community. Volunteers are needed for 1 or more hours. Register on the Jaguar Connection portal. Si, se puede! - Yes, we can!

Monday, September 22

Hispanic Heritage Month Trivia

Time: 3 – 4 p.m.
Location: Jaguar Den (A2150)
Event Overview: Test your knowledge of Hispanic pop culture and history while meeting members of the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council and Latinx Resource Center staff. Light snacks provided.


ALAS Open Meeting

Time: 1 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Come join members of the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) for a fun and welcoming meeting. This is an open meeting for all students. We'll have activities, time to mingle and a chance to share ideas for future events. Bring yourself and a friend! Questions? Email us at Alas@govst.edu.


Dance and Dip

Time: 5 – 6 p.m.
Location: Sherman Hall
Event Overview: Step into a night of History, Heritage and Hope as the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council celebrates the richness of the Hispanic/Latinx culture! Get ready to learn how to Salsa at this festive event. Meet new friends and sample a variety of Latin-themed dishes. Don't miss out on the rhythm and flavor! RSVP greatly appreciated.

Thursday, September 25

Sweet Success: Treats and Scholarship Advice

Time: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Location: B1240
Event Overview: Enjoy a variety of delicious , sweet snacks while learning about scholarships and resources in a relaxed, community-centered environment.

Tuesday, September 30

ALAS Scholarship Fundraiser

Time: All Day
Location: Gracie’s Burritos, 5756 W. Monee-Manhattan Rd, Monee, IL
Event Overview: Looking to contribute to a worthy cause? Visit Gracie's Burritos for breakfast, lunch or dinner to support the ALAS student organization. Pleas show flyer prior to purchasing. 25% of all proceeds donated to the Association of Latin Students scholarship.

Wednesday, October 1

Tamale Time! Support and Savor

Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: ARC Cove (B1223)
Event Overview: They're Hot, They're Tasty, and They're Almost Here! Submit your pre-orders by September 24 to support ALAS fundraising efforts. Limited supplies available on day of event. Questions? Email ALAS@govst.edu. 

Thursday, October 2

DIY Pinatas

Time: 2 – 3 p.m.
Location: Latinx Resource Center, C2340
Event Overview: Stop by the Latinx Resource Center to make a mini Pinata! All materials provided.

Tuesday, October 7

Bachata and Horchata

Time: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: Learn the smooth moves of Bachata while sipping a sweet cup of Horchata. No experience needed - Just bring your energy! Get ready to twirl, sip and have a blast!

Friday, October 10

Hispanic Heritage Month Symposium

Time: 8:30 a.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: Immerse yourself in Hispanic culture as you engage with experts, educators and students in meaningful discussions. Celebrate our shared passion for the Hispanic Community. Inquiries? Contact the Office of Institutional Excellence and Engagement. Complete Hispanic Heritage Month Symposium details available here.

Wednesday, October 15

Nuestra Cultura, Our Pride: A Farewell to Hispanic Heritage Month

Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Event Overview: Join us as we close out the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration with an energetic celebration of music, dance and vibrant rhythms that showcase the richness of Hispanic traditions. Bring your friends, feel the beat and celebrate Community and Culture with the Association of Latin American Students!

Schedule Subject to Change.

Questions? Email GetInvolved@govst.edu.


LGBTQ+ History Month 2025

During the month of October, Governors State University recognizes the achievements and progress made within the LGBTQ+ community. GovState students are invited to attend the vast array of campus celebrations that pay homage to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender history.

Event Schedule

All Month

Notable LGBTQ+ Leaders Visual Exhibit

Location: B Wing Display Case
Event Overview: Check out the visual exhibit to learn about LGBTQ+ history and contributions made to the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community.

Wednesday, October 1

Words of Pride: Affirmation Table

Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge
Event Overview: Kaleidoscope invites students to begin the month of October with positive words of Affirmation in recognition of LGBTQ+ History Month. Recognize those in the community who have impacted your life by leaving positive notes for friends or mentors!

Tuesday, October 7

What’s in Your Bag? Unleash Your Identity

Time: 4 – 6 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Create a tote bag, mingle and feel free to express yourself! All painting supplies provided. Complimentary snacks and goodies. Register on Jaguar Connection by 10/3/25.

Thursday, October 9

Love Colors Social

Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Event Overview: Join the Student Activities Council for an afternoon of celebration and community as we honor the journey of living authentically. Everyone is welcome to enjoy music, light refreshments, and uplifting vibes in a space that embraces authenticity, shared stories, and support.

Thursday, October 16

Pride Pantry

Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: B1242
Event Overview: Join the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership for a day of service education.


It’s Giving Fierce: Drag Bingo Night

Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: Get ready for an exciting evening of vibrant drag performances and bingo fun! Show off your stylish outfit and compete for prizes while celebrating drag artistry during LGBTQ+ History Month.

Free admission. Open to the GovSate community. Register on the Jaguar Connection portal.

Monday, October 20

Safe Zone Training

Event Overview: Safe Zone is a training program designed to raise awareness about the dynamics of gender and sexual orientation while exploring different ways to embody inclusive allyship for people of all orientations, genders, sexualities, identities, and levels of being out.

Saturday, October 25

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Center for Performing Arts
Ticket Price for Students: $10
Event Overview: Feel the antici…pation! One of the highlights of the Halloween season, The Rocky Horror Picture Show with live shadow cast returns to The Center’s stage with this classic cult rock'n'roll, science fiction, horror satire. Come in costume or just come for the fun, the live shadow cast takes the film to the next level as audiences experience the action with the whole theatre involved. Whether it's an introduction to the camp or your 100th, get ready to do the “Time Warp, again!”

Buy tickets

Friday, October 31

John Waters: A Live Director's Commentary and Screening of Serial Mom

Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Center for Performing Arts
Ticket Price for Students: $10
Event Overview: Waters will present a live director’s commentary and screening of his classic Serial Mom—sharing behind-the-scenes stories, real-life inspirations, and unfiltered observations along the way. Over-sharing? Absolutely. Too much information? Probably. But airing his dirty laundry just makes him feel clean. Includes a post-screening Q&A.

Buy tickets

Schedule Subject to Change.

Questions? Email GetInvolved@govst.edu.