Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrates La Familia

Posted on by Polk Newsroom

Although Hurricane Irma postponed the Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-off event that has traditionally marked the beginning of the a month-long celebration, events are scheduled through Oct. 28 to celebrate the 13th annual Hispanic Heritage Month at Polk State College.

The kick-off, which was scheduled for Sept. 13, is rescheduled for noon Sept. 28 in the Winter Haven Student Center (WST 126) for students, faculty, and staff to enjoy music, food, dancing, and learning about the Hispanic culture.

The College also has a handful of activities scheduled to celebrate this year’s theme – La Familia – or family.

“These events are important not only to recognize and honor the diversity within Polk State College, but also to give students, employees, and the community an inviting atmosphere to learn about the cultural diversity within our institution and the community we are embedded within,” said Valparisa Baker, director of Equity and Diversity.

Polk State’s student population is about 21 percent Hispanic.

“This year’s theme, La Familia, is particularly meaningful to me,” said Polk State College President Angela Garcia Falconetti. “My family and their experience as immigrants to this country have shaped my career path and has made me what I am today. I am proud of my Hispanic heritage and I am proud to share my culture with others.”

Students are also invited to apply for the Hispanic Heritage Scholarship, which is awarded to students who are pursuing educational goals and have an interest in serving the Hispanic community. Recipients are awarded up to $500.

The Office of Equity and Diversity, in partnership with the Polk State College Foundation and Club Hispano de Lakeland, will award the scholarship at the Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fiesta on Oct. 18 at the Student Center Dining Hall at the Lakeland Campus. The deadline for applications is Sept. 26. For more information, visit the Office of Equity and Diversity’s page.

The Hispanic Heritage events are in partnership with the Student Activities and Leadership Office, Student Government Association, and the International Circle Club.

Hispanic Heritage Month Gallery Exhibit
Runs through Oct. 6 | Monday – Thursday | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Polk State Lakeland Art Gallery

Artist Reception
The Search by NITEN
Thurs., Sept. 21 | 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Polk State Lakeland Art Gallery

Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-off
Thurs., Sept. 28 | Noon
Polk State Winter Haven Student Center

Dr. Lily Espinoza Presents “Overcoming Barriers to Education”
Tues., Oct. 10
Polk State Lakeland Student Center Dining Hall | 10:30 a.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Lobby | 1:30 p.m.

Coffee, Cookies, and Conversation Series
Café con Leche discussion presented by SGA
Wed., Oct. 11 | 10 a.m.
Polk State Lakeland Student Center Lobby

Coffee, Cookies, and Conversation Series
Café con Leche discussion presented by SGA
Thurs., Oct. 12 | 10 a.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Lobby

Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fiesta
Wed., Oct. 18 | Noon
Polk State Lakeland Student Center Dining Hall

Artistic Performance: Mambo Dance
Wed., Oct 18 | 12:15 p.m.
International Circle Club – Lakeland
Polk State Lakeland Student Center Dining Hall

Annual Hispanic Festival Presented by Club Hispano de Lakeland
Sat., Oct. 28 | Noon – 8 p.m.
Lake Mirror Promenade/Barnett Park, Lakeland
$5 for adults | Free for children younger than 12
For information call 863.937.2515 or email hispaniccluboflakeland@yahoo.com.