September 15th marked the start of Hispanic Heritage Month here in the United States. As a university that is recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution, or HSI, it's important to us to celebrate and recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States, as well as our university. 

Hispanic Heritage Week began in 1968 under the leadership of President Lyndon B. Johnson, and in 1988, President Ronald Reagan elected to expand the celebration to 30 days. Some may ask, why is Hispanic heritage celebrated from September 15 to October 15? September 15 commemorates the anniversary of the independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. September 16 is Mexican Independence Day and two days later, the 18th, is when Chile celebrates its independence from Spain. Furthermore, Dia de la Raza or “Race Day” — a time for recognizing the mixed indigenous and European heritage of Latin America — falls on October 12. 

The earliest piece of Hispanic history at SWAU can be found in an article in the Southwestern Union Record dated back to July 21, 1902. At that time, SWAU was known as Keene Industrial Academy, and the article announced the start of Spanish classes to be offered the next school year, more specifically, “the study of the Spanish bible and other religious works in that language,” in order to prepare students for mission work in Mexico, as stated in the article.

In 1940, the Union Record reported that the university had four Hispanic students, one from Puerto Rico and three from Mexico. In 1977, the number of Hispanic students had grown to 31, or 4.3%. Since then, SWAU has seen that number grow exponentially, and in 2015, was officially designated an HSI, or Hispanic Serving Institution. Due to this title, SWAU faculty, staff, and students are eligible to apply for Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) grants, internships, and partnerships. 

“I’m very grateful to be in a Hispanic school because of the opportunities I have, such as the ESL program, translators, and teachers who reach out to help,” said Diana Quevedo. Quevedo is a first-generation Mexican American and one of the many students who qualify for MSI opportunities. 

This school year, the population of Hispanic students is 54%. Through the years, the cultural makeup of SWAU has evolved, with diversity seen among the ranks of our students, as well as our faculty members. A special feat came in 2021 when Ana Patterson was named president, making her the first female president and first Hispanic president in school history. 
Josafat Zemluduch, SWAU Marketing & PR Director, who was born and raised in Mexico, said that working at SWAU feels like a “natural extension of my cultural background.”

“It makes me proud to be part of an organization that supports and uplifts Hispanic students and communities,” he said. “It gives me a sense of purpose, knowing that my work helps foster opportunities for people who come from similar backgrounds as mine.”

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it is crucial to recognize not only the historical significance but also the ongoing impact of Hispanic culture within our community. This month serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to honor the diversity that shapes our academic environment and society at large. By uplifting the voices and achievements of Hispanic students, faculty, and staff, we foster a culture of understanding and collaboration that benefits everyone. Let us continue to embrace and celebrate this rich heritage, ensuring that our commitment to diversity is not limited to a month but is woven into the fabric of our daily lives.