Stony Brook University is marking its 35th year of Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and beyond. This year's theme, "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together," emphasizes progress within the Hispanic community.
Since starting in 1989 at SBU, Hispanic Heritage Month has grown into a celebration focused on cultural pride, educational growth, and community engagement. The month-long events highlight the heritage and impact of Hispanic and Latino Americans on the nation's history and identity.
Students, faculty, staff, and community members will participate in various events aimed at education, inspiration, and unity. Key activities include an opening celebration, movie nights, and showcases of Hispanic cuisine. The events will conclude with a Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration on October 30.
Manuel (Manny) Cortes, director of Safety and Support Services for Campus Residences, will be the keynote speaker for the opening celebration on October 2. Born in Brooklyn's Bushwick neighborhood to a Puerto Rican family, Cortes graduated from Stony Brook in 1989 as a first-generation college student and returned as staff in 1996.
Cortes is a two-time recipient of the Los Padrinos Award. This award recognizes Stony Brook faculty or staff who have contributed to Latino students' quality of life and educational growth while serving as mentors. Celebrating his 30th year at Stony Brook this year, Cortes will speak about family importance and how Stony Brook's Latino community became his home away from home.
For more information on events during Hispanic Heritage Month at SBU, visit their website.