Hispanic Heritage Month Calendar

 

 

GovState Community Partners

Juan Andrade

Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr

Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of our glorious past, our impactful present, and promising future. Presently, America is the 2nd largest Spanish speaking country in the world and we are America's next majority population group. It also serves to educate or remind non-Hispanics that Hispanics comprise the 5th largest economy in the world, the 3rd fastest growing GDP in the world, and that we lead America in business development, work force expansion, home and automobile purchases, economic growth, and account for the majority of America's population growth. In short, Hispanics are America's social, economic and political future.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

Professionally, I'm most proud to have co-founded USHLI: registered 2.3 million new voters, reached 1.2 million participants in our leadership programs, awarded $1.6 million in scholarships and internships, published 425 reports on Hispanic demographics, and sponsored for 43 years the largest annual gathering of emerging leaders in America. Academically, I've earned five college degrees (three Masters and a doctorate), received six honorary doctorates and three Distinguished Alumni Awards, and taught at three universities. Personally, I'm proud to be the 4th Hispanic in history honored by both a U.S. President and the Government of Mexico.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

As many others have said, success is not a destination, it is a journey. That's very true, and to which I would add: Success is not measured by how high you climb. It's measured by how wide you reach and lift others up. If you reach wide enough, the height you climb will take care of itself.

Angie Zuniga

Angie Zuniga

Angie Zuniga

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic/Latinx community. To me, it represents pride in my heritage, recognition of the sacrifices and resilience of those who came before, and a reminder of the importance of keeping traditions alive while embracing the diversity within our community. It is also a time to reflect on the impact Hispanic/Latinx leaders, workers, and families have had in shaping our society, and to continue building spaces where our voices, stories, and perspectives are valued and heard.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

On a personal level, I am most proud of the way I’ve balanced a demanding career with my commitment to family and community. While advancing in leadership within the credit union industry, I’ve also dedicated myself to serving on nonprofit and educational boards, supporting causes that strengthen families and open doors for future generations. For me, success is not just measured in professional milestones, but in the ability to give back, lead with integrity, and create a positive impact on the lives of others—whether that’s my family, colleagues, or the broader community.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice is to take pride in your heritage and let it guide your journey rather than limit it. Seek out mentors, role models, and networks that will support you—representation matters, and your voice adds value wherever you go. Don’t be afraid to take up space in classrooms, workplaces, and leadership roles. Remember that your background brings unique perspectives and strengths that can open doors not only for you but also for those who follow. Most importantly, believe in your ability to succeed and give back to your community along the way.

GovState Students

Kate Del Rio

Kate
Del Rio

Kate Del Rio

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Pride, introspection, and celebration are all part of Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month. For me, it serves as a reminder of the tenacity, customs, and sacrifices made by our predecessors, whose work opened doors for succeeding generations. It's also an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our culture, which shapes our identites and communities through language, cuisine, music, art, and family values.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

Learning to embrace my identity and ideals while conquering obstacles that once challenged my confidence is one of my greatest personal achievements. I occasionally felt undervalued or ignored as a child, but I made the decision to view those situations as chances to strengthen my resilience. I grew closer to my family and community through perseverance, finding motivation in their sacrifices and support. In addition to my accomplishments, I am proud of the resilient, kind, and driven person I have grown into. This achievement shows how far I've come and encourages me to keep going while encouraging others to accept their own paths.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Accept who you are and use it to your advantage. Your experiences, language, and culture add insightful viewpoints to whatever setting you visit. Create networks of peers, mentors, and organizations that encourage you to develop and cherish your history. Asking for assistance is a show of resilience, not weakness, so don't be scared to do so. Keep in mind that you fit into any leadership position, workplace, and classroom. Aim high, have faith in your abilities, and uphold your moral principles. By succeeding, you leave a legacy of tenacity, self-esteem, and empowerment and create opportunities for others.

Jocelyn Alba

Jocelyn
Alba

Jocelyn Alba

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic Heritage to me means honoring those who came before me and not only taught me my values and traditions but also the work they did to pave the way for me to get where I am today.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

My accomplishment I am most proud of was getting into graduate school and being able to tell my family.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Some advice I would give to current or future Hispanic students is to use any and all resources. It is okay to ask for help but make sure you are doing your research on what is the best way to achieve your dreams. School is so important but sometimes when you do not know people who have finished school you feel alone but others are are here to support you in your journey. It is never to late to reach your dreams.

Joharis Castillo

Joharis
Castillo

Joharis Castillo

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is a time to honor the sacrifices, traditions, and values that have shaped who I am today. More than being a celebration of culture, I see it as a reminder of our strength, our resilience, our pride, our beautiful traditions, and our community. Personally, it motivates me to embrace my identity and carry my heritage into every space I enter, whether in academics, athletics, or leadership. It reminds me to represent my family’s journey while also paving the way for future generations. This month is both a reflection of where we come from and an inspiration for what we can achieve together.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

When I think about my accomplishments, I reflect on the journey and sacrifices that shaped who I am today. I am most proud of 11-year-old me, because she dreamed big and refused to stop until we made it. As a first-generation student, the path was often confusing, yet I persevered. Today, I proudly stand as a junior in college, balancing academics with the privilege of playing collegiate volleyball alongside incredible teammates and coaches who support me. My journey is more than an accomplishment, is proof of resilience, determination, and the power of never giving up on your dreams.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Never view a challenge as a limitation; instead, see it as an opportunity to build strength and resilience. By approaching difficulties with determination, barriers can be transformed into steppingstones toward growth. Equally important is the need to prioritize both mental and emotional well-being, ensuring that success is not only academic but also personal. Embrace the mindset that you fully belong in every academic and professional space you enter, you are there with purpose and for a reason. Go forward with confidence, representing not only yourself but also your culture and the values that shape who you are.

Manuel Paz-Estrada

Manuel
Paz-Estrada

Manuel Paz-Estrada

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month means a time for celebration and thought for the Hispanic/Latino Community. I love watching the flags fly through the city and through the neighbors. The energy and pride that fill the air about our communities and culture bring me so much joy. It often feels like I am closer to my home country (Mexico). This month-long celebration highlights various independence days, holidays, and other celebrations.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I am lucky enough to have experienced a lot of proud moments in my personal, academic, and professional career. The proudest moment in my Academic and Professional life so far has to be winning the ILACHE Student Leadership award in 2025. Most times, we are often our hardest critics; we push ourselves to perfection and feel terrible when we do not reach that level. Winning that award then showed me that I was doing something right, and people were seeing it. Walking onstage and seeing all the hands clapping for me felt surreal, and I will never forget it.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

The most significant advice I would give current and future Hispanic/Latinx students is to put yourself out there. Volunteer and join clubs, apply for scholarships, apply for internships, and fill those spaces in rooms that previous generations could not. The worst that can happen is to hear a no or a rejection, and I understand it can be scary, but we should not let our fears get in the way of our opportunities. You deserve to be in that space, and your voice deserves to be heard. So be your own biggest fan and best advocate, you may never know.

Victoria Gomez

Victoria
Gomez

Victoria Gomez

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month means so much to me because it gives me the space to honor both sides of my heritage, my mother’s Mexican roots and my father’s Guatemalan roots. My parents came to this country seeking a better life, and their sacrifices remind me daily of the strength within our culture. While I carry my traditions, culture, and identity with me year-round, this month is a dedicated time to celebrate Hispanic excellence. Especially under the current administration, it feels even more important to recognize that we are more than stereotypes; we are the backbone of this country.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

The accomplishment I am most proud of is my current academic and professional journey at GovState. I came here on a full-ride scholarship, and I’ve used that opportunity to build community by founding the Reading Jaguars book club and serving as a leader in another organization. Through these roles, I strive to showcase the resilience and strength of Latina women at GovState. Professionally, I am proud to serve as a Senior Intern in Marketing and Communications, where I have the privilege of working on projects that highlight and support GovState’s strong and diverse community.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice to current and future Hispanic/Latinx students is to embrace your identity with pride and never underestimate the power of your heritage! Our culture, traditions, and language are not barriers but strengths that make us unique and resilient. There will be challenges along the way, but always remember that you belong in every space you enter. Lean on our community, seek mentors who inspire you, and don’t be afraid to take up leadership roles. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, because each step forward honors your family’s sacrifices and opens the door for future generations.

GovState Faculty

Linda D. Campos-Moreira

Linda D.
Campos-Moreira

Linda D. Campos-Moreira

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Latino/a/e/x Heritage Month is a time for me to feel and express gratitude for those who have come before me and helped make the world a better place, including my ancestors. It 's also a time to be grateful for the connections and relationships that I currently have with family, friends, students, and the community. It's a moment to be inspired and to inspire the next generation of Latinos/as/e. Finally, it's an opportunity to celebrate my Mexican heritage and the diverse Latino heritage of others.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

Although I worked hard to earn a Ph.D. in Social Work and can now be referred to as Doctora Campos-Moreira, that is not my proudest accomplishment. I would have to say that I am most proud of my ability/capacity to be compassionate toward myself and others- despite or in spite of all the personal hardships, failures, and structural barriers that affect us all. Como dicen: What it means to be bien educado/a no solo se trata de obtener una educación escolar, sino también about how well you treat others (also check out Valenzuela, 2010).

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Some of my biggest regrets as an undergrad are not getting involved in extracurriculars, applying for scholarships, and building relationships with professors and staff. As a first-generation student whose family struggled with addiction, poverty, mixed immigration status, and violence, college was at times a lonely experience— and it didn't have to be. Now, I encourage students to get involved and ask for help. Our campus offers opportunities for leadership, support, and connection. When things become challenging extend yourself some love and compassion porque Sí, se Puede and you don't have to do it alone! Oh—take cultural/ gender/women study classes!

Dr. Sasha N. Cervantes

Sasha
Cervantes

Sasha Cervantes

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

This month is critical for representation of Hispanic/LatinX people in all social spheres. Too frequently Hispanics are portrayed in a unidimensional manner. It is important for the LatinX community and others to see that we belong in all sectors. Elevating the profile of Hispanics in Academia supports the depth and breadth of our identity and embraces the diversity that should be present in our historical, present, and future cultural landscapes. We are all part of the progress being made in our country and in our respective fields.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I am proud that I persevered to pursue my goals in all areas of my life: community, personal, and professional. There is no specific accomplishment that is mine alone, so what I take pride in, is learning from my experiences and helping others to persevere in their own goals.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Embrace learning as a part of your identity. Earning a degree opens doors, but the journey to earn the degree is valuable too. The information and skills you acquire, the people you connect with, the growth you achieve, will all help you develop into your best self and enrich the communities you are a part of. Also, do not struggle alone. As part of this community, we want to support you. Embracing the value of learning and asking for help when needed will help you persevere when obstacles challenge you, rather than allowing them to block you from your goals.

Jelena Radovic-Fanta

Jelena
Radovic-Fanta

Jelena Radovic-Fanta

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

This month means for me an opportunity to visibilize, commemorate, and celebrate the accomplishments large and small of the Hispanic/Latine community. Coming from a country that is so distant geographically, I cherish the opportunity to learn, celebrate each other, and share with everyone those things that are unique and that unite us across the American continent.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I am proud of having completed my doctorate in anthropology, particularly as a Latin American woman. I received this degree in a discipline I am fascinated with and I enjoy all the opportunities that it has provided me: being in the classroom with our amazing students, carrying out research near and far on topics I am passionate about, and working in interdisciplinary projects with colleagues in the campus community.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My main advice is for current and future students to reach out, get involved, and have conversations with peers and mentors. I know it’s not easy to do, especially in a new environment. But once you have that conversation or participate in an event, you may realize others have similar thoughts, experiences, and apprehensions. You will also learn that others have been in the same spot where you are and can offer advice, encouragement, and comradery. Participating in events, meeting peers in an organization, or talking to advisors or faculty, can lead to opportunities, friendships, and a sense of belonging.

Eddie Gamboa

Eddie
Gamboa, Jr

Eddie Gamboa, Jr

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

It means honoring a legacy of anti-colonial struggle through solidarity. We have fashioned an identity through a shared commitment toward freedom and liberation, which can sometimes get lost when we are disconnected from our shared histories. Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month means coming back to that knowledge and the communities we crafted through it that meet the challenges of our time.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

Completing my dissertation. I experienced some significant loss while in grad school, and almost gave up. But I had the support of my community. When I realized that they are not only who I work for, but where my work comes from, it became something that I was not only proud of but an honor to craft with my people.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Build the community you want to see in this world, and invite others into it. Learn how to ask for help - there are more people who will give you grace than you think. Find the chismosas on campus, and learn from them. Keep going.

Valerie Butron

Valerie
Butron

Valerie Butron

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is a reminder of the stories, traditions, and resilience that live within our families and communities. For me, it is woven into daily life. I am raising an AfroLatina daughter with my husband, a first-generation Mexican American, and together we carry multiple heritages in one household. Both personally and professionally, I want children to see that all parts of who they are matter. This month is about honoring our history while making sure every child and family who holds more than one identity knows there is space for them too.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

The accomplishment I am most proud of is creating a life rooted in resilience, purpose, and authenticity. Personally, completing five marathons and a 50K trail race stands as a testament to my discipline, endurance, and ability to keep moving forward through challenge. Academically, becoming bilingual as an adult expanded my world and positioned me to teach across cultures. Professionally, co-founding Tumbao Bilingual Books has allowed me to publish stories that honor children’s identities while coaching educators to center belonging. Together, these milestones reflect a life of perseverance, growth, and meaningful impact on others.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice to current and future Hispanic/Latinx students is to honor every part of who you are and know that your voice matters. You carry the strength of your family, your heritage, and your own dreams. Becoming bilingual as an adult showed me that learning and growth never stop, and your unique story is your greatest asset. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who see your potential, and don’t be afraid to take up space in classrooms, communities, and beyond. You belong everywhere decisions are made, and the world needs your perspective, brilliance, and courage.

GovState Staff

Emmanuel López

Emmanuel
Lopez

Emmanuel Lopez

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for us at the Latinx Resource Center to celebrate the richness and diversity of our cultures, histories, and contributions. It is an opportunity to honor our ancestors’ resilience, uplift the voices of our students, and create space for pride in our shared identities.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

The accomplishment I am most proud of is serving as the inaugural director of the Latinx Resource Center. It has been the greatest opportunity of my life, creating a space that uplifts students, celebrates our culture, and builds community for generations to come. Many people envision what it would be like to land their dream job. I wake up every morning knowing how lucky I am to be working my dream job.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Ask for help early and often. College is hard enough, don’t add more pressure by trying to do it all alone. Network and invest in your personal brand. Your degree is both what you know and who you know, treat them as equally important. Advocate for yourself. College is the perfect place to develop self-advocacy. Speak up, ask questions, and claim the opportunities you deserve.

Karina Hernandez-Casarez

Karina
Hernandez-Cazarez

Karina Hernandez-Cazarez

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

It’s an intentional time to celebrate Latino cultures and contributions. For me, it is also a time to think about my family’s background and appreciate all of the sacrifices they have made in order for me to have the opportunities I have today.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

One of my proudest accomplishments is working at my alma mater GovState’s Latinx Resource Center. Through mentoring students, creating programming, and providing support resources, I am able to help build a stronger, more connected community. Having been in their shoes, I empathize with the challenges they face and use that insight to provide individualized guidance to students. I feel proud to be in a role where I can empower students and help them thrive.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Don’t be the one to tell yourself “no” or sell yourself short. Apply for that role, speak up in class, start that club. Even if it doesn’t go as planned, use those experiences to build your confidence and to be better prepared for the next opportunity.

Daisy Lozano

Daisy
Lozano

Daisy Lozano

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a celebration—it's a reflection of identity, resilience, and pride. This month calls us to educate, advocate, and inspire. It's about creating spaces where students can embrace their heritage with pride and pursue their goals with confidence. It's about reminding them that their culture is not just something to celebrate—it's a source of strength. Celebrate Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month by continuing to build bridges, foster belonging, and empower others to own their stories. Because when we honor our heritage, we honor our future.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

As a proud Latina, my accomplishments are rooted in service, growth, and impact. I’m proud of my own educational and professional path. One of my proudest accomplishments is being the first in my family to earn a bachelor's and master's degree, and I hope to pursue a doctorate degree soon. Those milestones represent more than academic success to me—it’s a symbol of perseverance, sacrifice, and the dreams of generations before me. It reminds me that barriers can be broken and that our stories can rewrite the narrative for those who come after us.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

You are not just the future—you are the present. And the world needs your brilliance, your perspective, and your passion. Never feel the need to shrink yourself to fit in. Your culture is beautiful, and your bilingualism, traditions, and experiences are assets. You are part of a legacy of leaders, creators, and changemakers. Let that inspire you to dream boldly and lead with heart. Celebrate your wins big and small. Whether passing a challenging class, speaking up in a meeting, or being the first in your family to attend college, every step forward is worth celebrating. As you rise, reach back and lift others. Your journey can light the way for someone else.

Stephanie Contreras-Juarez

Stephanie
Contreras-Juarez

Stephanie Contreras-Juarez

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

To me, Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is about honoring where I come from and the people who paved the way for me. It’s a time to celebrate the culture, traditions, and values that I carry with me everyday things like family, community, resilience, and pride. It’s also a reminder to pause and reflect on the sacrifices of those before me, while finding joy in the music, food, stories, and language that connect us all. Personally, it means being proud of my roots, sharing them with others, and making sure future generations feel just as proud and seen. It’s not just a month of recognition, but a reminder that our voices, stories, and contributions matter all year long.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

One accomplishment I am most proud of is the career I’ve built at Governors State University over the past 18 years, with 14 of those years full-time. I started out as extra help in admissions processing and, through hard work and determination, grew into my current role. Along the way, I’ve adapted to major changes—like learning new systems, navigating processes, and taking on new responsibilities—while always keeping my focus on helping students, faculty, and colleagues. I take pride in being a steady, reliable presence in my department and in knowing that the work I do makes a positive difference for others.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

The advice I would give to current and future Hispanic/Latinx students is to be proud of who you are and where you come from. Your culture, your language, and your story are strengths that will carry you far. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, lean on mentors, and build a support network, you don’t have to do everything alone. Take up space, share your voice, and know that you belong in every classroom, workplace, and leadership role you step into. Most importantly, believe in yourself and trust that the sacrifices of those before you have paved the way for your success.

Cesar Flores

Cesar A.
Flores

Cesar A. Flores

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic Heritage Month is special time where I can reflect and celebrate the many contributions of my people to this great nation I call home. I also believe in the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by my parents, who had to leave their native land of Mexico, to ensure my brothers and I had better opportunities in the United States. Lastly, this month serves as a reminder that it is my responsibility as an educated Latino professional to help pave the way for future generations of empowered Latinos through culture, education, and hard work.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

Although I am extremely proud of my professional achievement of serving as one of the few Latino Associate Vice Presidents in higher education, my number one achievement is being able to raise two wonderful sons who mean everything to me.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

The number one advice I like to give future generations of Latinx students comes from a popular Spanish phare: “Ponte las pilas”, which loosely translates as “put your batteries on”. I like to use this motivational phrase to encourage students to never give up, continue their effort, and finish their educational goal!

Chris Goodson

Christopher
Goodson

Christopher Goodson

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

To me, Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is a time of celebration, pride, and recognition. I am truly happy that this month is being highlighted and that we have Latinx students on campus who bring such richness and diversity to our community. It makes me proud to see that we are not only providing them with a safe space for learning, networking, and socializing, but also creating opportunities that will support their future success. This month reminds me of how far we have come, and it fills me with pride to see the progress being made in representation, inclusivity, and empowerment.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I am most proud of my academic growth. Personally and professionally, I’ve always known who I was, but as a young student, academics were not my strong suit. I graduated high school with a low GPA, and my first college semester reflected similar struggles. That experience forced me to soul search and build new skills—teaching myself how to write, read for context and comprehension, and not fear critical thinking. It took discipline and resilience, but those challenges shaped me into a stronger learner. It hurts at first to face your room for improvement, but once yu put in the work, everything comes together.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice to current and future students is to take pride in who you are, where you’re from, and the legacy of your family. Learn and embrace your country’s history, traditions, and culture so that you can pass them down and keep them alive for future generations. Knowledge of your roots is a source of strength and finding your identity. I also encourage you to get involved in cultural activities within your community and throughout the Chicago area. Participation not only helps you stay connected but also builds unity, pride, and opportunities for growth, ensuring your culture continues to thrive and inspire others.

GovState Alumni

Kimberly Gonzalez

Kimberly
Gonzalez

Kimberly Gonzalez

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to honor the resilience and legacy of my family. My grandfather, Brigido, came to the United States in the 1950s, working long hours and sending money home to Mexico until my grandparents settled in Thornton, Illinois in 1960. My father, Antonio, mirrored that determination, teaching me the value of doing work you love and contributing to something greater than yourself. This month reminds me of their sacrifices and the joy of family traditions that have shaped who I am. It is both a celebration and reminder to preserve culture, uplift others, and keep building opportunities.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I am most proud of building a career rooted in purpose and service. Like my grandfather and father, I believe in the value of “good work”—not simply working to get by but working in a way that uplifts others. At Governors State University, I’ve had the privilege of creating alumni programs, mentoring students, and opening doors for communities that deserve opportunity. Each milestone represents not just personal success, but my family’s legacy of resilience, leadership, and faith in the future. I am proud to carry forward their example by building spaces where people can thrive together.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice is to embrace your heritage as a source of strength and confidence. Your family’s sacrifices, traditions, and values are part of what make you resilient and resourceful. Like my father always told me, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” Seek opportunities that bring you joy and allow you to contribute to something bigger than yourself. Learn as much as you can from each step, surround yourself with people who support you, and never underestimate the power of your story—it can open doors for you and for others.

Martina Matthews

Martina
Matthews

Martina Matthews

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month reminds me of my grandmother, who came here from Mexico and always said, “One day you’ll be so successful you won’t have to work.” She was my biggest cheerleader. For me, this month is about carrying that spirit forward; showcasing each other’s wins, celebrating resilience, and inspiring future generations to dream bigger. It’s not just about honoring the past, but about proving that thriving is possible, visible, and contagious.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I’m most proud of being a founding member of Chegg.com. It wasn’t glamorous. There was no playbook. There was, however, lots of late-night brainstorming and plenty of people telling us it wouldn’t work. But we locked in and pushed through. That experience taught me that with determination and vision, you can create something that changes lives. It set the stage for how I approach everything now: believe in the idea, trust the process, and keep moving even when the odds are stacked.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice: Don’t wait until everything feels “perfect” to make your move. Start now. You already carry the resilience, pride, and resourcefulness that define our community. Celebrate your wins and share them, because your story will inspire someone else. Find mentors, but also be that mentor for others. And above all, know this: you belong in every room where decisions are made. Your voice and perspective are exactly what the future needs.

Rene Rivas

Rene C.
Rivas

Rene C. Rivas

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

As a first-generation Mexican American, Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is a time to honor the sacrifices and resilience of those who came before me. It’s also about recognizing the leaders in our community who not only persevered but reached back to guide and develop others, creating pathways for future generations like mine.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I’m most proud of learning to face challenges and adapt. Those experiences pushed me to grow personally and professionally, shaping me into someone who can add real value to others’ lives. For me, true accomplishment is not just overcoming obstacles—it’s using what I’ve learned to uplift and guide others.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

My advice is to live with intention. As the verse says, “Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a catch.” Revisit your goals daily—academic, professional, and personal—and make sure your actions align with your values. Goals may change, but always keep a plan to move closer to your ideal self. Scrutinize anything that doesn’t bring you closer. Remember, el amor y el dinero no se logran nunca sin riesgo—love and success require faith, courage, and risk.

Cynthia Gomez

Cynthia
Gomez

Cynthia Gomez

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

To me Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is about recognizing where I come from and the values that have shaped me from my family, language, traditions, and culture. It is a time to reflect on the stories, music, food, and history that make our communities so unique. I think about my parents, grandparents and everyone who paved the way for the next generation. It is also a reminder to be proud of my identity, to stay connected to my roots, and to keep those traditions alive while creating my own path.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

I’m most proud of earning both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, especially as the first in my family to do it. There was a time when just finishing my bachelor’s felt almost impossible, like a dream that was just out of reach. It took a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and belief in myself to get through it. Once I did, I set my sights on a master’s degree, not just for me, but for my career goals and my future. Reaching that point felt incredibly personal.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

To current and future Hispanic/Latinx students: Nothing in life will be handed to you, and things won’t always be easy. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. You just have to keep showing up and putting in the work, even when it’s hard or takes longer than expected. Don’t be afraid to take up space and be proud of where you come from. Your background is your strength. Keep pushing, stay grounded, and know that your effort will pay off. Not just for you, but for the ones coming after you too.

Lorena Diaz

Lorena
Diaz

Lorena Diaz

What does Hispanic Hertiage Month mean to you personally?

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is a time for celebration, reflection, and recognition. It offers an opportunity to honor the cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities while also acknowledging the diversity within these groups. There are various countries, languages, histories, and identities all encompassed under this umbrella.

What accomplishment are you most proud of (personal, academic, or professional)?

One of my proudest accomplishments is pursuing my master's degree. This journey represents my dedication to enhancing my skills and my commitment to uplifting the Latinx community. By advancing my expertise, I can better support students, many of whom come from underrepresented backgrounds, by serving as a mentor, resource, and advocate. My goal is to empower these students to overcome barriers, embrace their cultural identity, and reach their full potential.

What advice would you give to current and future Hispanic students?

Establish a community by seeking out student groups, mentors, and peers who understand your experiences. A supportive network makes challenges easier and victories more meaningful.