EL SEMANARIO HOSTOSIANO / HOSTOS WEEKLY | Friday, August 25, 2023

El Semanario Hostosiano / The Hostos Weekly: A Campus-Weekly Bulletin from President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

Friday, August 25, 2023 | Vol. 7, No. 1

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

My Dear Colleagues and Students,

I welcome you, us all, to another academic year as we prepare for one more opportunity to embrace our mission, engage in teaching and learning, and work hard to motivate and retain our wonderful students. By now, the news of our enrollment is worth noting. Our current enrollment trend reflects an increase of 5%. A warm thank you to the teamwork of Academic Affairs and Student Development and Enrollment Management and the collaboration of leaders and their faculty and staff. Bravi!

This Semanario will bring news from all areas as we celebrate additional achievements and good work from this summer. Consider the following significant support received:

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson’s $1.5 million grant to remodel the College’s cafeteria.
$130,000 grant secured by Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr. to support the programming of the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, received through the New York City Council Coalition of Theaters of Color.
Title V Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions $2.86 million grant from the Department of Education that will be rolled out to help the College improve student access, increase retention, and improve the graduation rate.
Our $1 million federal earmark in support of transfer opportunities for our students.

In addition, there are a considerable number of upcoming cultural events and advocacy and educational programs.

Lastly, it is my honor to disseminate the Hostos Strategic Plan 2023-2028, the product of the generous and thoughtful contributions of over 90 colleagues participating in working groups. I look forward to our discussions about it during the All College Meeting on Wednesday, September 27, at 3 p.m. in the Savoy Multipurpose Room. We have much to celebrate as we engage in continuing work in support of our sacred trust – our students and our communities.

Mil gracias y bendiciones,

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

President

A QUOTE TO INVITE DISCUSSIONS ABOUT TEACHING AND LEARNING AS WE BEGIN ANOTHER POWERFUL ACADEMIC YEAR

“To educate as the practice of freedom is a way of teaching that anyone can learn. That learning process comes easiest to those of us who teach who also believe that there is an aspect of our vocation that is sacred; who believe that our work is not merely to share information but to share in the intellectual and spiritual growth of our students. To teach in a manner that respects and cares for the souls of our students is essential if we are to provide the necessary conditions where learning can most deeply and intimately begin.”

Bell Hooks in Teaching to Transgress-Education as the Practice of Freedom. New York: Routledge, 1994, p. 13.

MESSAGE FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT KATHY DISLA

Saludos! My name is Kathy Disla, and I’m very proud and excited to be the new SGA President for 2023-2024.

Welcome to an exciting chapter of your life here at Hostos! As you step onto our campus, you’re starting on a journey filled with opportunities, growth, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a freshman exploring this new environment or a returning student continuing your academic pursuits, we’re thrilled to have you as part of our vibrant community. I am excited and truly honored to be your SGA president. My team and I have been working through July and August to prepare for this day, and now it is here, and so are you.

At Hostos, you’ll find a diverse and inclusive community that values your unique perspective and contribution. Our dedicated faculty and staff are here to support you as you navigate through your studies and personal development. From engaging classes to extracurricular activities, there’s something for everyone to get involved in. This is your chance to create long-lasting memories, build lifelong friendships, and develop skills to shape your future. Therefore, make the most of your time here, embrace new challenges, and remember that your journey at Hostos Community College is just beginning.

I would like to introduce the rest of the SGA members on my team:

Kobe Bryant Jacobs, Vice President for Student Affairs and Community Relations
Orlando Soto Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs/Chair of the Student Senate
Yaxeny Hernandez, Budget and Finance Commissioner
Jahneilia Curtin, Executive Secretary
Yassir Djossou, Campus Affairs Commissioner
Brian Carter, Part-Time/Evening Student Affairs Commissioner
Laura Cuevas, Senate Secretary
Surdy Feliz, Senator
Ansumana Jammeh, Senator

We are excited to work with the community and to serve the student body. Please visit us on the 5th floor of the C-building or say hello to us when you see us on campus. You will have a chance to meet with us during our “On-the-go Breakfast with the SGA” on Thursday, August 31, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at C-391. There will be breakfast, games, and prizes!

If you would like more information about us, please visit our webpage.

We are also currently looking to fill some vacant seats in the SGA Senate. If you are interested, please visit the Office of Student Activities at C-371. For a job description for the position, please refer to the SGA Constitution.

In short, the first day is always filled with incredible aspirations, and know that the SGA is here to support you along the way. Wishing you a great semester and an awesome year.

Muchas gracias,

Kathy

CAIMAN CLUES

Weekly Tips & Reminders to Navigate Life at Hostos

Welcome to WEEK 1 and the first day of classes of Fall 2023! We are so excited to welcome you to a new semester at Hostos Community College. Every week, the College will send out Caiman Clues — important tips and deadline reminders about everything from financial aid to advisement. These are designed to help you have a successful semester at Hostos.

Here are the Clues for the week:

Get involved! Welcome Days August 25–August 31: Join us on campus and engage in campus community activities; get to know your peers, advisors, counselors, mentors, and faculty members. Check out the full Welcome Days schedule of activities here.

Hostos Clubs & Activities: Visit the Office of Student Activities in C-371 to learn about how to join a student club or become part of the Student Government Association (SGA). Click here for more information.

Get your Hostos ID in the B-building: The office is at the basement level (BC–042A). The hours of operation are Monday – Thursday, from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 3 – 5:30 p.m., and Friday, from 9:30 a.m.– 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.– 5 p.m. Additional fall term days: Saturday, August 26, and Saturday, September 9 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Thursday, August 31: This is the last day to add/drop a class. Beginning August 25, a fee of $18 will be applied to all students wishing to change their programs and the late registration fee is $25.

MS. MACKENZIE SCOTT’S GIFT: PRESIDENT’S INITIATIVES

Submitted by Sofia Oviedo, Ph.D., Research Programs Director

Dear Students and Colleagues,

I am delighted to welcome you back to Hostos for the 2023-2024 academic year. I hope that you enjoyed the summer break and are re-energized for the new semester. Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives will continue to provide engaging and dynamic opportunities for our Hostos family, and I am excited to share recent developments:

The Hostos Research Center (HRC) is now open to support our faculty, students, and staff with their research and grant development needs, feature research presentations, and host career-focused events, such as a grant writing series that will be offered to help new and experienced grant writers sharpen their skills and be prepared to submit competitive grants. Come visit during an Open House to learn more. The next one is on Wednesday, August 30, at 3:30 p.m.

The HRC and Committee on Sponsored Programs and Grants announced the recipients of the IDEAS – Innovating, Developing and Executing Actions with Success Project Development Awards for 2023. The awards will support 11 faculty/staff members in developing proposals/projects that address current research needs and can be materialized into full-fledged proposals to request external funding. We will host research presentations during Fall 2023 showcasing the projects at the HRC.

This summer, 35 students were employed through Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus, including 15 students working as research assistants supporting faculty and staff-led ADELANTE research projects across multiple disciplines. On August 16, the President’s Office and the Office of Career Services hosted Career Development Day to provide both mentors and mentees with educational workshops and special recognitions honoring their participation.

Over the coming weeks, I look forward to sharing an annual report highlighting the major accomplishments of the President’s Initiatives listed below and how the Hostos community has benefitted from this transformative effort:

1. Families United in Education

2. Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus

3. Hostos Research Center

4. NextGen Public Health Scholars 2+2+2 Scholarship Program

5. Hostos External Internships Program

6. Bridge Tuition Support Assistance

7. Educating for Diversity

8. Ms. MacKenzie Scott Adult and Continuing Education Scholarship

9. Hostos Student Symposium

10. Caiman Direct: Virtual Student Support

11. President’s Recognition Events

For more information about Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives, please email or call me at soviedo@hostos.cuny.edu | Tel: 718-518-4309.

Sincerely,

Sofia Oviedo, Ph.D.

OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT (OIERA)

Submitted by Dean Babette Audant, Ph.D.

We Are Ready for Y1 Operational Plan!

As summer enters its last weeks (still time for the beach, picnics, and fireflies), the College's 2023-2028 Strategic Plan (SP) is ready for implementation. Reflective of the nearly 100 staff and faculty who comprised the strategic plan working groups, the Y1 Operational Plan (OP) captures efforts across divisions and units to advance the SP's six Mission-aligned Goals. The divisional drafts were submitted in early August and will be reviewed by Cabinet by the end of August.

Returning faculty will review, and have the opportunity to contribute to, the OP before it is finalized. That said, as the OP aligns with the fiscal year, foundational work began in July in individual units, including OIERA.

Because the SP identifies 26 concrete Strategies and includes ~70 strategy progress indicators (SPIs), OIERA's scope of work is significant and specific. Each SPI has a work plan – some are counts of, for example, the number of attendees at the range of events offered by the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture. Other SPIs require an analysis of, for example, the time it takes for CUNY Start completers to be admitted to Hostos or student access to and completion of experiential learning opportunities by degree program.

The OIERA team has been digging into the SPIs and is ready to work with units across Hostos to support data collection, analysis, and – hopefully – pass along some of our excitement about what is going to be a collective and iterative learning experience to support our students and advance social justice.

The Centrality of Equity and Diversity in our SP

EQUITY

Equity is grounded in the principle of fairness. It focuses on access, opportunity, and advancement for all. Equity recognizes that advantages and barriers exist, which impacts our starting position and participation. At Hostos, it refers to ensuring that each student, faculty member, and staff person receives what they need to be successful. We aim to routinely scrutinize structural barriers to equity and understand root causes of outcome disparities in order to invest in equity-minded policies, practices, and behaviors that lead to success for all members of our community.

DIVERSITY

Diversity is expressed in myriad forms. It includes all the ways in which people differ, encompassing the different characteristics that make one individual or group different from another. While expressions of diversity are ever-evolving, they are often used in reference to: race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, physical appearance, marital/partnership status, family structure, education, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language, culture, national origin, religious commitments, age, (dis)ability status, neurodiversity, and differences in belief, ideology, and political perspective. At educational institutions, diversity can also encompass full-time/part-time status, income level, citizenship status, justice-impacted, and access to advancement opportunities. At Hostos, diversity is our strength. We embrace all dimensions of human difference and practice giving equal attention to the many backgrounds of the members of our community. Hostos is a place that helps people explore the intersectionality of their identities. We are open to whoever you are, even if you don’t know and if you change.

From Hostos 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, “Key Definitions”

Our SP includes definitions of justice, diversity, inclusion, and equity drafted by the members of Working Group 2. In addition to the definition is a directive: that we scrutinize and understand the root causes of disparities, using data to inform actions and overcome inequities. Co-relation (rather than cause) is often suggested by data, and, in support of the Hostos SP, OIERA will report on KPIs, or key performance indicators (eg. course completion, retention, graduation) used to measure how effectively we deliver on our commitments to students. Further, it will be OIERA’s role to disaggregate the KPIs or break down the data to see if there are outcome gaps between different groups of students (eg. Black/Hispanic, female/male, or students over/under 25 years of age), and if an outcome gap is “significant.” Whether or not there is a significant gap, that initial analysis can inform conversations among faculty, staff, and leadership about how we act to sustain or undo inequity.

A more challenging task, and one suggested by the definition of diversity included in the SP, is that the standard means by which we disaggregate data renders invisible all kinds of differences, including and not limited to immigration status, multi-racial identities, gender and sexual identities, and disabilities. OIERA doesn’t have the tools available and will be considering strategies to make visible these invisible differences that contribute to our intersectional identities while keeping the nationally recognized (and significant) frameworks for tracking equity at the fore.

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

Submitted by Executive Counsel and Labor Designee Eugene Sohn, Esq.

Statement on Public Order

In compliance with Chapter 191 of the laws of 1969, the Board of Trustees has adopted rules and regulations for the maintenance of public order on college campuses and other College property used for education purposes. Please read the policy in detail here.

OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.

Affordable Housing Opportunity: Application Deadline is September 12

An affordable housing lottery is open for the new Estela buildings located at 414 and 445 Gerard Avenue, within walking distance from Hostos. Thirty percent of the 550 apartments in the two buildings have been set aside for this housing lottery in two categories, households earning 80% and 130% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments are available through the lottery, with household sizes ranging from one to five people and annual household income limits ranging from $57,429 to $198,250.

For more details on eligibility and to apply, please visit the NYC Housing Connect website to view the posting. If you have applied to other affordable housing lotteries through NYC Housing Connect in the past, you should already have an account set up, which will help streamline the application process.

The deadline to apply is September 12, so if you are interested, act fast and don’t wait until the last minute. It sometimes takes a few days to gather all the information needed for an affordable housing application.

If you have any questions about these items, please email Dr. Radezky at eradezky@hostos.cuny.edu.

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY (OCD)

Submitted by Chief Diversity Officer, Title IX Coordinator, and 504/ADA Coordinator Philip Oliveri, Esq.

Two Important Policies

The Office of Compliance and Diversity (OCD) is committed to a community where ALL are welcomed and to ensuring that we maintain an environment free from bias, prejudice, discrimination, and harassment in all forms.

To that effect, please be reminded of, and review, two important policies geared toward achieving this goal. (1) CUNY Policy on Sexual Misconduct prohibits sexual misconduct, and (2) CUNY Policy on Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination memorializes our commitment to recruit, employ, retain, promote, and provide benefits to employees (including paid and unpaid interns) and to admit and provide services for students without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, marital status, partnership status, disability, genetic information, alienage, citizenship, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence/stalking/sex offenses, unemployment status, or any other legally prohibited basis in accordance with federal, state and city laws.

If you experience or witness any form of discrimination or harassment, please contact Philip Oliveri, Esq. who serves as our Chief Diversity Officer, Title IX Coordinator, and ADA/504 Coordinator, at x4284 or by email at poliveri@hostos.cuny.edu. You may also file an online complaint here.

Welcome back!

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

Submitted by OAA VP and Provost Shiang-Kwei Wang, Ph.D.

We Celebrate a Revolutionary Project

OAA is delighted to congratulate Associate Professor of Digital Design and Animation Catherine Lewis on her newest grant project, The Revolutionary Print Shop at Hostos.

The Revolutionary Print Shop at Hostos is a screen printing and block printing initiative founded in 2022. The Print Shop aims to expand career readiness, technical skills, and creative outlets for Hostos Design and Media Design majors. Housed within the Art Studio in the C-building, the Print Shop connects students with portfolio-building opportunities to pursue textile, fashion, commercial, and fine art projects. A student-run club named “Print Club” has been founded around the Print Shop to host events where the entire Hostos community is welcome to share in the activity.

This initiative aims to establish a sustainable model for a paid apprenticeship where Hostos Design students can master the technical practice, studio management, and methods for instruction in screen printing. Each apprentice would use this training to manage open studio hours in the Print Shop, print commercial and fund-raising projects, and train the next generation of apprentices. The ADELANTE Project and Perkins funding are supporting the purchase of necessary equipment, supplies, and – most importantly – an undergraduate research student to assist in investigating best print shop practices, developing an apprenticeship curriculum, redesigning the physical space of the print shop, and establishing themselves as a qualified apprentice.

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by VP La Toro Yates, Ph.D.

A Message from Dr. Yates

Whether you are an incoming freshman, transfer, or continuing student, we are incredibly excited that you are part of the Hostos campus community. As you begin your time as a Caiman, I want you to know SDEM is committed to ensuring the best experiences imaginable academically, emotionally, and socially to promote student success.

Team members across SDEM want you to have a fantastic campus experience. We have many resources available to you, either remotely or in person. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many programs and services offered through us, including Financial Aid, Student Life, Counseling, Health and Wellness, Accessibility Resource Center (ARC), One Stop, Veterans Affairs, Caiman Direct, and the Scholarship Office. The Hostos experience is designed to expand your personal and educational interests and open your mind to different ideas and cultures.

We also refuse to stand still. We have implemented a continuous improvement process that includes regularly assessing our programs and services to ensure we offer you the quality support you need. And we may need your help with that. We often ask students for feedback that will help us get better. Your input is invaluable to improving our programs and services and ensuring we fulfill our educational mission.

Always remember, at Hostos, WE BUILD CHAMPIONS AND WE SEE YOU!

Sincerely,

VP Yates

First-Year Experience (FYE)

The First Year Experience (FYE) Committee held its first New Student Orientation on Wednesday, July 19th. About 250 new and transfer students attended and learned of the various student resources Hostos offers and were able to connect with student support services during the orientation. President Cocco De Filippis, local politicians, staff, students, and alumni provided valuable insights on what is to come and the expectations of this academic year.

The next FYE orientation will be virtually on September 1.

In case you missed the first one, here is a throwback to the July FYE event!

There is Still Time to Enroll!

Walk-in enrollment for fall 2023 will continue through Thursday, August 31. Students can receive enrollment assistance virtually or in person. For more information, please email the office at sscu@hostos.cuny.edu or call 718-664-2560. Student Success Coaches are available every day this week to help from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Children’s Center

The Children’s Center is open for the Fall 2023 semester. Children of student-parents can enroll their children ages zero through five. The hours of operation are 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Funding is available for student-parents to help with the cost. If space is available, faculty and staff can also enroll their children based on a sliding-fee scale.

The Children’s Center is proud to be a recipient of the U.S. Department of Education’s CCAMPIS grant, which allows the Center to run Parents and Children Together at Hostos (PACT). PACT provides mental health support and wellness programming for children and parents. All services are available at the Center.

Please reach out to Program & Family Coordinator Paulina Martinez for more information at 718-518-4209 or pmartinez@hostos.cuny.edu.

Financial Aid Office

Have you applied for FAFSA? TAP?

Students enrolling in the Fall 2023 semester can still apply for TAP by filling out the FAFSA. Once submitted, New York State residents attending NYS campuses can link directly to the TAP application. For students who have already enrolled and submitted their FAFSA for the 2023-2024 academic year, TAP awards will automatically be prorated or adjusted based on the number of enrolled credits.

Work Study Initiative: No money left behind!

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is campus-based employment offered to students based on financial aid eligibility. The Financial Aid office is establishing a campus-wide alliance to strengthen our FWS program through communication, collaboration, and actions. The goal is to increase participation in the FWS program on and off campus for students, departments, and off-campus stakeholders by building a campus-wide culture of student employment via training and professional development.

Students can work a maximum of 20 hours a week and currently earn $15.00 an hour. Awards are normally offered at about $2,000 per semester during an academic period. Students are encouraged to review their financial aid package and contact the Financial Aid office to confirm eligibility.

For more information and collaboration, contact Financial Aid at 718-518-6555.

Student Activities

Club Registration

The Office of Student Activities Fall 2023 Club Registration process begins today, Friday, August 25 to Friday, September 8. Interested students should pick up a Club Registration Form at the Student Activities Office (C-371) from Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

On-the-go Breakfast with the SGA

Meet the SGA leadership! Let’s have a conversation, and learn about what SGA does and what it hopes to accomplish this upcoming fall semester on Thursday, August 31, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., in C-391. There will be breakfast, games, and prizes!

Transfer Services Office

Transfer Spotlight: Tionne Palmer

Submitted by Director Rocio Rayo

My first conversation with Tionne happened in the gym. It was the fall of 2021, and we were all figuring out where and how to be in this “Post-COVID” world. Tionne was a new addition to the men’s basketball team. He was standing in the corner, quietly watching as other players were screaming, yelling, joking, and playing around on the court. I introduced myself and asked his name; he responded with a strong but quiet voice. I asked him what his plans were for school, and he said he didn’t know but that school really wasn’t “for him.” I asked him what his plans were for basketball, and he said he didn’t know because he wasn’t sure he would play anymore. He was timid and looked like he was trying to figure out where he fit in.

Fast forward to the summer of 2022, he walked into my office, and I didn’t recognize him. He was taller, had lost weight, and put on muscle – but that was not the biggest difference. He exuded confidence, and there was no doubt in my mind he knew exactly where he belonged. He kept that energy when the season started and was the most dominant player on the court almost every game. Tionne finished the spring semester with offers from Queens College, Virginia Union University, Lincoln University, and a multitude of colleges that showed interest. In July, Tionne committed to Lincoln University, an HBCU that competes at the NCAA Division 2 level. Tionne received a full scholarship for $125k, which includes a 3rd-year option for graduation, which would grant him scholarship coverage for an extra year.

"The two years go by really fast; cherish every moment, and don't be afraid to take a risk - it will all be worth it in the end," he advised future Hostos students.

Go here to see Tionne’s sign-in recap!

Good luck this year, Tionne! We are proud of you!

Meet the Colleges!

Meet the colleges you may transfer to! Hartwick College, Grand Canyon University, and Long Island University will be at the A-Atrium on Thursday, August 31, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.! Come check them out!

Virtual Transfer Application Hour

Every Tuesday, 12–1 p.m.

Zoom here.

Transfer Talks at C-512

Every Tuesday, 2–3 p.m.

Walk-in Wednesdays

Every Wednesday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tabling A-Atrium

Every Thursday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne

Important Updates

Welcome to the new academic year! The summer has been a busy one for ADM. This is a brief update on just some of the activities the administration has been occupied with.

The Budget Office: June and July have been busy for the finance and budget units as the fiscal year 2023 ended and fiscal year 2024 began. During this time, the College received its budget allocation, and New York City announced its adopted budget for FY2023-2024. The Budget Office has developed a draft of the College’s financial plan for the year, incorporating reductions to the personnel and OTPS areas in alignment with our allocation. The Business Office has been busy working on audits and year-end financial closure activities.

CUNYBuy: CUNYBuy’s Phase 3 Procure-to-Pay was rolled out on July 3, and our Procurement Office has been busy training users throughout the campus on the new system. Additional training sessions will be offered for users who have not yet completed the online training or would like additional in-person assistance with the training. An announcement will be made when the sessions are scheduled.

Pedestrian Bridge between A and C buildings: As mentioned in the April 21, 2023 edition of El Semanario, CUNY authorized a high-priority infrastructure project for Hostos that addresses the underside of the Pedestrian Bridge connecting the A and C buildings. The project's first phase, which is to replace missing panels, stabilize the existing panels, and prevent further deterioration, has been completed as of July 31, 2023. The second phase is to design and construct a permanent solution.

Repair of A-building South Façade: The repair of the A-building’s south façade wall (facing Evelina Antonetty Park) is complete. However, during the completion of the wall, the engineering firm that designed the south façade wall discovered an issue with a different area. The wall enclosing the Children’s Center playground was found to be not up to code. CUNY is now looking to secure funding to rectify the playground area wall.

Air Handling Units in the Old Wing of the A-building: The preliminary work to prepare for the installation of new Air Handling units in the old wing of the A-building has been completed. The physical units are expected to arrive in August. The project has a target completion date of December 2023.

In addition to these updates, we would like to remind our College community members to be proactive and help maintain a healthy, safe, and pest-free campus. Bugs, rodents, and similar pests continue to be active in our surrounding environment, but we can all play a role in making sure that we do not extend our welcome to uninvited pests.

If we eliminate any food and nesting sources for rodents, the pests that are on campus will have no choice but to go for the bait, gels, or traps set up by the exterminator. Below are some things we can do in order to prevent or limit any uninvited guests, such as mice, ants, squirrels, and other rodents:

Pests love it when we leave crumbs, spills, and treats for them. Make sure messes are cleaned up promptly.
Store food in air-tight containers and keep them in the fridge. Rodents have a remarkable sense of smell and can identify food even in tightly wrapped plastic or Ziploc bags.
All appliances such as toasters, ovens, stoves, microwaves, and refrigerators should be cleaned daily.
Garbage should be removed at least once daily.
Be mindful of the accumulation of paper and cardboard boxes; rodents use these items for nesting.
Notify facilities of any sightings of pests or pest droppings.

The exterminator is scheduled to come to campus weekly. If you have any sightings, please report them to Environmental Health and Safety Director Marya Shuksta at mshuksta@hostos.cuny.edu as soon as possible so the exterminator can attend to that area in their rounds. Thank you for your cooperation.

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

Submitted by VP Evelyn Fernández-Ketcham, Ph.D., LCSW

12 CEWD Alumni who are Continuing Hostos Degree Students will Receive Another $500 MacKenzie Scott ACE Scholarship

The MacKenzie Scott Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) Scholarship program awarded $500 each to 12 CEWD alumni who are continuing Hostos degree students and maintained a 3.0 or above grade point average (GPA). Three students had a GPA of 3.8 or higher. Four CEWD alumni have received this college retention award for more than two consecutive semesters. The majority of students are seeking degrees in allied health. Ten scholarship recipients are either enrolled in or hoping to enter the AAS degree program in Nursing. First-time awardees will be announced at the beginning of the Fall semester. All MacKenzie Scott Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) Scholarship program recipients will be honored at a reception in Fall 2023.

The MacKenzie Scott ACE Scholarship program provides up to $1,000 to students transitioning from a continuing education program and matriculating into a degree program at Hostos. The scholarship may be used for tuition, college application fees, books, transportation, and childcare. First-time recipients are awarded a $1,000 scholarship. CEWD alumni who remain enrolled in a Hostos degree program and maintain a 3.0 or above GPA are awarded a $500 scholarship. Applications for the MacKenzie Scott ACE Scholarship program are reviewed on a rolling basis. For more information or to obtain an application, please contact Sam Byrd at sbyrd@hostos.cuny.edu.

Fall 2023 Virtual Information Sessions

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA)

Submitted by VP Colette Atkins

The 17th Annual Scholarship Fund Golf Outing Classic Happening on September 21!

The Hostos Community College Foundation’s 17th Annual Scholarship Fund Golf Outing Classic returns on Thursday, September 21, to Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses. Join us for a day of revelry and friendly competition while helping the Foundation to raise funds for scholarships at Hostos. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit www.hostosgolfouting.com.

Hostos Alumni Participate in Holistic Oasis for Parent’s Education (H.O.P.E) Event

Our Hostos Community College alumni joined the HOPE program on Thursday, July 27, to share their academic and professional experiences and to motivate and engage students. Special thanks to Professor Sarah Hoiland, Erika Francis, and Hostos alumnae Nancy Nieves ’15 and Hilda Reyes ’19 for their time and support of our students!

Want To Be a Mentor?

Hostos has partnered with iMentor to help current students and alumni mentor high school students in New York City public schools. For more information about the program and how to participate, contact Alumni Relations Manager Felix Sanchez at fsanchez@hostos.cuny.edu or click here.

BRAVO NEWS

Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community

Hostos BMI TEAM Receives the 2022-2023 Outstanding Academic Enhancement Trophy

Congratulations to our Hostos Black Male Initiative (BMI) TEAM, presented with the 2022-2023 Outstanding Academic Enhancement Trophy at the BMI Directors Retreat at the Ford Foundation on August 2. We were selected for this prize out of over 30 programs housed within CUNY. This is the first time Hostos has been honored with such recognition. The trophy will be at Hostos for a year and will rotate yearly depending on the following awardees.

Professor Yoel Rodríguez Part of Groundbreaking $1.5 Million Grant from the National Science Foundation

We’re proud of Professor Yoel Rodríguez, one of the partners of the historic $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). Professor Rodríguez was invited to participate in this groundbreaking initiative by CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Director Ramona Hernández. The collaboration, aimed at improving recruitment, retention, and graduation rates of Latino/a/x students in STEM programs, also includes peers at Lehman College and the University of New Mexico.

Hostos Community College Represented at Dominican Heritage Events

Hostos Community College participated in the National Dominican Day Parade (NDDP) on Sixth Avenue on Sunday, August 13. In the over 40 years of history of the NDDP, this was the first time that a President of the Dominican Republic, a position currently held by Luis Abinader, attended and served as the Grand Marshall. Our College representatives marched alongside New York Governor Kathy Hochul and CUNY Board of Trustees Vice Chairperson Sandra Wilkin, who conversed with our students about their academic plans for the future.

Before the parade, Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis and other staff members attended the Annual Dominican Day Parade Breakfast organized by Congressmember and friend of the College Adriano Espaillat.

“I was truly delighted to be a part of a celebration that honors the rich history and culture of the Dominican Republic and its people in New York. As an immigrant in this city, a product of high-quality public education, and the first Dominican woman to serve as president of a CUNY college, I couldn’t be prouder to break bread and share our collective achievements with the colleagues, elected officials, and longtime friends who tirelessly continue to support our mission,” said President Cocco De Filippis.

Besides participating in the NDDP, the College was also represented at events by the Gran Parada Dominicana del Bronx in late July. Accompanied by Hostos Dean of Community Relations and Gran Parada Dominicana del Bronx Godmother Ana García Reyes, the Hostos delegates participated both in the gala and the parade. The College hosted the day-of breakfast at the Savoy Multipurpose Room on Sunday, July 30. Many parade and community leaders shared remarks at the early meeting, which powered up attendees before they marched down the Grand Concourse and festively taking over many sections of the borough throughout the day.

For his part, New York City Mayor Eric Adams hosted a Dominican Heritage Celebration at Gracie Mansion in early August, which many Hostos staff members attended as well.

President Cocco De Filippis recognizes the attendance of students Kathy Disla, Hualbin Ramírez, Orlando Soto, Ashley Mejía, Ashley Arnold, Nelfi Moya, and Ruth Toribio; staff members Dean Johanna Gómez, Víctor Santana, José García, Idelsa Méndez, and Wilfredo José Burgos-Matos.

Take a look at some photos here.

Congratulations to SDEM VP La Toro Yates on Becoming a Trustee of Saint Peter’s University in New Jersey

SDEM VP La Toro Yates is now a Saint Peter’s University (SPU) Trustee. A proud SPU alum, Dr. Yates is looking forward to this journey and making a positive impact on the institution’s future. We wish him all the best!

Student-Athletes Ready to Continue their Athletic and Academic Journey

As we prepare for this upcoming year, we reflect on the amazing work of our class of 2023 student-athletes in hopes of continuing this momentum for those who follow. With the tireless effort from Assistant Athletic Director Marquee Poole and collaboration with our Transfer Services office, four athletes received over half a million dollars in scholarships. In addition, besides successfully transferring, some others secured some form of financial aid. This is the manifestation of lots of sweat, some tears, a sprinkle of faith, and tremendous sustained institutional support. Being a Caiman is always good, but today feels EXTRA great! Congratulations are in order for:

Starr Garcia – Queens College

Marquise Paulin – John Jay College

Jalen Thomas – College of Staten Island

Rashad Ramserran – Queens College

Kai Holland – John Jay College

Tionne Palmer – Lincoln University

Randolph Charles – Cheyney University

Sidi Toure – William Baptist University

Savannah Williams – Lincoln University

Lanasia Drain – Hofstra University

Four Hostos Community College Graduates Transfer to Top Universities Including Ivy League

Congratulations to this outstanding group of Hostos alumni! Four of our 2023 graduates, who were part of the Kaplan Leadership Program (KLP), have transferred to prestigious universities across the nation, including the Ivy League. Fatimah Bah, Yassine Gaye, José González, and Andre Watson have accepted admission to Cornell University, Princeton University, Rice University, and Yale University, respectively. Fatima will study Civil Engineering at Cornell, while Yassine Gaye will complete her Chemical Engineering degree at Princeton. For their part, José became a Finance major at Rice and Andre will deepen his Criminal Justice and Black Studies training at Yale in order to study law once he finishes his baccalaureate.

“Our students will never stop making us proud of their significant achievements. I am thrilled to see what they continue to do out in the world. Their success stories are proof of the excellence that characterizes our educational mission, which is centered on the principles of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. No matter your circumstances or upbringing, all students should have fair access to first-rate education like the one we offer at our College. I am thankful to the KLP for sharing our common values on behalf of our students’ success,” said Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis.