Weber State offers packed schedule to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
OGDEN, Utah — As Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off on Sept. 15, Weber State University invites all to attend a month-long celebration highlighting the culture and impact of Hispanic and Latino communities.
“This month reminds us that even though we have different upbringings, we are bound together as Americans and a community here at Weber State,” said Mónica Rodriguez, student engagement program manager.
Throughout the month, the WSU community and the public can participate in free events including a market featuring products from Central and Latin America, a dance class that teaches zapateo and faldeo dances, an art exhibit that showcases Latin art, and more. A full list of events is available on the Student Success Center website.
“It’s such a warm feeling when I walk around campus during this month and I see traditional clothing on display or foods from Latin American countries, or events that the Ballet Folklórico holds,” said Angela Barradas, Ballet Folklórico leader and student at Weber State.
Hispanic Heritage Month at WSU will culminate in a keynote from Olivia Jaramillo, director for public outreach and training at Equality Utah. Originally from Mexico, Jaramillo retired from the U.S. Air Force, where she served tours in Iraq, Europe and Africa. She was also named one of Utah’s 40 over 40 successful women in 2023.
Jaramillo will answer the question “Why Hispanic Heritage Month?” at 12:20 p.m. on Oct. 15 in the Shepherd Union Wildcat Theater.
“By engaging with the diverse stories, traditions and contributions of Hispanic communities, students at Weber State can broaden their perspectives, build cultural empathy and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around them,” Jaramillo said.
Chloee Robison, Marketing & Communications
801-626-7948, chloeerobison@weber.edu- Contact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu