Friday, February 2, 2024 | Vol. 8, No. 2

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

My Dear Colleagues and Students,

Our last book discussion at Executive Cabinet, The Seven Principles of Highly Effective People, an old but true friend of reflection about who we are, what our individual goals (mission, journey, legend) and our engagement and effectiveness at work, invited reflections on the six pillars of the Hostos Mission:

• Access to higher education
• Diversity and multiculturalism
• English and math skills development
• Intellectual growth and lifelong learning
• Socioeconomic mobility
• Community resource

We reflect on the road taken together, about our dedication to meeting the moral imperative to do our part, each and every day as we support one or more pillars. This past full week of classes, as we collaborate to ensure students have an effective first week of the semester, the manos a la obra ethos continued, as colleagues in SDEM and OAA work together to support our students. Please read in this Semanario about some of the strategies and successes.

Please stay safe, stay focused on your work and what is yours to do to ensure that our students and we all have a successful semester.

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

President

A POEM TO WELCOME BLACK HISTORY MONTH

“The Negro Speaks of Rivers”

Langston Hughes

I’ve known rivers:

I’ve known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins.

My soul has grown deep like the rivers.

I bathed in the Euphrates when dawns were young.

I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep.

I looked upon the Nile and raised the pyramids above it.

I heard the singing of the Mississippi when Abe Lincoln went down to New Orleans, and I’ve seen its muddy bosom turn all golden in the sunset.

I’ve known rivers:

Ancient, dusky rivers.

My soul has grown deep like the rivers.

Langston Hughes, "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" from “The Collected Works of Langston Hughes.” © 2002 by Langston Hughes. Reprinted by permission of Harold Ober Associates, Inc.

MESSAGE FROM THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT DAINMA MARTINEZ

February is the Month of Cleansing

Happy Friday and second day of February! 

The time is here for Black History Month, Valentine's Day and, most importantly but funny enough, the day when we let a groundhog let us know if we get spring early or a longer winter. I hope that the spring semester is going well for those new and returning students. For any concerns that you may have, I highly encourage you to stop by your advisor's office to discuss anything that is necessary. If you are feeling stressed, stop by the Counseling Center on the 3rd floor in the C-building.



While this month continues, we here at SGA hope you are able to attend upcoming events to create memories and moments for all. As always, I know that everyone here at SGA is more than happy to lend a hand when needed, so stop by one of our offices to have a chat.

Best,

Dainma

CAIMAN CLUES

Weekly Tips & Reminders to Navigate Life at Hostos

Welcome to the second week of the semester! Here’s an important reminder:

• One Stop Produce: The Hostos One Stop Program will distribute free fruits and vegetables at 12 p.m. every Wednesday this semester on the first floor of the Savoy Building. No appointments are needed. First come, first serve.

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

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

Updates

It is my hope that fellow colleagues and students are having a positive start to the new semester. Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives will be offering many wonderful opportunities for community learning and engagement. I am delighted to share that the Educating for Diversity Initiative has awarded 15 new grants for Spring 2024! We received a high number of applications for this grant cycle, which speaks to the incredible enthusiasm and creativity that our Hostos community continues to generate. A wide array of educational and cultural activities will be supported, providing our Hostos community with many opportunities for connection and collaboration to continue developing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive campus.

This spring will also provide opportunities for engagement through the Hostos Campus Climate Initiative with several events that are being planned in support of the CUNY Anti-Hate Initiative, a new multi-year initiative funded by the NYC Council that aims to confront discrimination within CUNY campuses focused on specific vulnerable populations each academic year. This year will focus on efforts to address antisemitism and anti-hate towards the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community (AAPI). The Office of the President and the Office of Compliance and Diversity are collaborating on this important effort and planning events that promote cross-cultural awareness and understanding, as well as cultural sensitivity, in partnership with community-based organizations. Details and dates of upcoming events will be shared widely with the Hostos community. We look forward to everyone’s participation and support as we continue to foster a community where all are welcome and belong.

INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT (OIERA)

Submitted by Dean Babette Audant, Ph.D.

Hostos, HSIs and The Underfunding of Equitable Access to Higher Education, Part II

Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) is a federally defined designation for institutions of higher education with >25% Hispanic enrollment. Hostos is among the nation’s HSIs, and was among the 137 institutions awarded this status in 1990 (there are now 559).

HSIs, like Hostos, play a critical role in closing the gap between White Non-Hispanic and Hispanic (and Black) college enrollment and college completion rates. While enrollment gaps are several percentage points, the completion gap is sobering and directly impacts socio-economic mobility and security.

Nationally and within New York State, compared to White Non-Hispanic students, enrollment and completion gaps persist among Hispanic students: nationally, 21% of Hispanics aged 18-34 enrolled in college, compared to their White Non-Hispanic counterparts (24%). Degree attainment lags as well: 24% of Hispanic adults over 25 have earned an associate degree or higher compared to 46% of non-Hispanic White adults. In New York State and in New York City, the disparity is greater (see table below). It is lower still among residents of the South Bronx, where only 8.4% of Hispanic males and 13.5% of Hispanic females have earned a bachelor’s degree, compared to 43% of residents across New York City’s five boroughs (Bergad, 2022). College completion rates track to earnings, and in New York City, residents with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, $22K more than those with only a high school diploma.

There are many ways of quantifying the impact of what we do at Hostos. Considering our role as an HSI and how it is defined by Hostos’ historical role in advancing justice provides both context and underscores the urgency of our work here in the South Bronx.

Table 1: Comparing rates of college enrollment and college degree attainment among Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White populations in the U.S., New York State, and New York City.

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

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

CUNY Policy on Multiple Positions



Each full-time employee is obligated to view his/her appointment to Hostos as his/her major professional commitment. Please read more about holding multiple positions within CUNY here.

OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.

Check Your Voter Registration and Register to Vote in the 2024 Elections 

Are you registered to vote? The 2024 elections will be here before you know it. This year we will have elections for the US Senate, US House of Representatives, New York State Senate, and New York State Assembly. The general election will be in November, but very important primary elections will happen on June 25 to determine who runs in November. New York has what is known as a “closed primary system,” which means that if you want to vote for a candidate in the June primary, you must be enrolled in that candidate’s party.  

The New York City Board of Elections has a new online registration option. You no longer need a paper application to register to vote and using the online form takes only minutes. If you want to update your address, party affiliation, or other voter information, you must do so by the deadline of February 14 to vote in the June primary. 

Other useful tools on the Board of Elections site include a way to check if you are registered to vote, the application for an absentee ballot, and an FAQ page about elections and voter registration in New York City.  

Don’t put it off and register to vote today!

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY (OCD)

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

Black History Month

Dear Hostos Community,

As we embark on the month of February, it is with great significance and respect that we recognize and celebrate Black History Month. This dedicated period allows us to delve deeper into the vibrant tapestry of Black and African-American history, culture and achievements that have shaped our nation and the world. Black History Month stands as a testament to the rich legacy of Black and African-American individuals who have made indelible marks in various fields: from the arts and sciences to politics, sports and social justice. It is an opportunity to not only celebrate achievements but also acknowledge the struggles and challenges faced throughout history and recognize the resilience and strength of the Black and African-American community. By delving into the diverse narratives, experiences and accomplishments of Black and African-American individuals, we enrich our collective knowledge and foster a more inclusive environment. In celebrating Black History Month, we honor the past, acknowledge the present, and actively shape a more inclusive future for all.     

Sincerely,

Philip

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

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



JOC Career Development Day

We are delighted to announce the success of the Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus (JOC) Career Development Day held on January 18 in collaboration with Dr. Sofia Oviedo. The full-day workshop provided over 30 mentors and mentees with essential skills, career readiness insights, and opportunities for curricular integration. The day commenced with a warm welcome and orientation led by Dr. Oviedo, followed by engaging workshops led by Ms. Lisanette Rosario and Ms. Laura Hand. Our sincere thanks to all participants, speakers, and collaborators for contributing to the success of JOC Day. Wishing you a season filled with success, growth, and endless possibilities!

A Message from the Career Services Director 

Spring is a period of transformation, and the Career Services Office at Hostos is committed to supporting your growth this semester. Whether you are a new student exploring your career path or a graduating senior ready for a full-time career, our office is here to provide guidance, support, and resources.

Here are a few ways that you can make the most of this season:

Spring Cleaning for Your Resume: Take some time to update and polish your resume. Highlight your achievements, experiences, and skills that make you stand out.

Career Exploration: Explore different industries with a Career Advisor, attend career fairs to gain insights into career paths, and check out Candid Career.

Candid Career: Learn about your options through thousands of career videos. Obtain exclusive free access to Candid Career using our unique school link.

Grow with Google/Career Readiness Program: Earn free certificates, access exclusive content, and build Digital Skills for today’s workplace.

Events: Join upcoming Career Services Workshops, Career Fairs, and NYS Career Center Events and Recruitments. 

Internship and Job Search: Spring is an excellent time to explore internships and kickstart your job search. Check out CUNY Career Launch, Internship to Employment (I2E) CUNY, and CUNY Internships.

Connect with Us: Schedule an appointment with our Career Advisors in D-210, attend drop-in hours, or contact us online.

Upcoming Career Services Events

Career Readiness Days

Date | Time: February 5–8 | 10 AM–4 PM

Location: D-210

No appointment is needed; just drop in!

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by VP La Toro Yates, Ph.D.

Children’s Center



The Children’s Center is enrolling now for the Spring and Summer 2024 semesters. Student-parents can enroll their children ages zero through five. 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. 

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

Financial Aid Office

Have you applied for FAFSA? TAP?

There is still time to 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 may be automatically prorated or adjusted based on the number of enrolled credits. 

Student Activities

Club registrations are open and run until Wednesday, February 7. The registration process is open to clubs that were active last semester as well as those that were not. To pick up an application, please visit the Office of Student Activities (C-371). 

Student Government Association (SGA) has some open slots for the role of Senator. Interested candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.50 and must have completed at least 6 academic credits. For additional information or to pick up an application, please stop by our office (C-371).

Transfer Services



If you are graduating after the Spring 2024 or Summer 2024 semester and want to continue your education at a four-year CUNY school in the Fall 2024 semester, the priority deadline to apply for transfer at CUNY is February 15! The Office of Transfer Services wants to help support you through this process.  

Transfer Talk Tuesdays/Transfer Workshops

Every Tuesday | Time: 1–2 PM

Location: C–512

Transfer Walk-in Wednesdays

Every Wednesday | Time: 10 AM–5 PM

Location: D 101-A (Savoy Building)

Transfer Tabling Thursdays / Meet 4-year Admissions Representatives

Every Thursday | Time: 12 PM to 2 PM

Location: A-Atrium

We are located in the D building, room 101-A. 

No appointment is necessary!

Stay informed and engaged with our upcoming Spring 2024 events to maximize your transfer journey. You can email us at transferservices@hostos.cuny.edu, call us at 718.518.4457, or follow us on Instagram @hostostransferservices.  

POEMS TO INSPIRE THE COMMUNITY

“Justice”

Langston Hughes

That Justice is a blind goddess

Is a thing to which we black are wise:

Her bandage hides two festering sores

That once perhaps were eyes.

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne

Campus Infrastructure Projects Updates

Infrastructure projects for the campus are works in progress. We have a long list, and it will continue to grow as our buildings age. Some major works in progress include the following:

A-Building

• The façade repair work for the south wall of the A-building is complete; however, we are awaiting funding ($80K) for the repair of the wall between the Children’s Center and the park playground.
• The 9 Air Handling Unit project in the A-building is in progress, with the 4th floor and basement units currently being installed. The project is expected to be completed by June 2024.

B-Building

• The B-building’s emergency generator project is 90% complete.
• The 3rd-floor renovation project is estimated to start in 2025.
• We have acquired funding for the design phase of the B-building wall (facing the Memorial Garden) and are now waiting for funding for the construction phase.

C-Building

• Summer boiler project is 90% complete.

Additional Project(s)

• The funding for the campus-wide Building Management System (BMS) project, which is estimated at $10.2 million, has been secured, and the design phase has been completed. 

Farmer’s Fridge Restocking Schedule

We’ve noticed that the Farmer’s Fridge (located outside the Cafeteria in the C-building) is becoming quite popular with the College community. If you see the Fridge items are low, don’t worry – Farmer’s Fridge restocks frequently. They come every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday to replenish the Fridge items to ensure a consistent supply of fresh and tasty food. 

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

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

CEWD Receives Additional Funding to Expand its No-Cost Occupational Training Programs

In 2022, with funding from the New York Community Trust, LaGuardia Community College and Hostos Community College launched a new initiative — the NYC Accelerated Recovery Hub — to help low-income New Yorkers living in Queens and the Bronx, who have been upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, obtain access to low or no-cost occupational training programs. 

From January 2022-December 2023, CEWD provided full tuition scholarships for students enrolling in the following training programs: Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician, CompTIA, Certified Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding, as well as EKG/Phlebotomy as an upskill opportunity for Certified Nursing Assistants. 

Two hundred (200) students enrolled in CEWD’s NYC Accelerated Recovery Hub scholarship program, and 167 students (84%) completed their training program. Of the 167 students who completed the training, 82 students successfully obtained an industry-recognized certificate, and another 64 are waiting to take their certification exams with external credentialing bodies so they can obtain an industry-recognized certificate.

Based on the success of this initiative, the New York Community Trust awarded LaGuardia Community College and Hostos Community College a second grant to support the NYC Accelerated Recovery Hub. CEWD received $400,000 and will provide full tuition scholarships for 80 participants who enroll in one of CEWD’s NYC Accelerated Recovery Hub-supported training programs.

Virtual Information Sessions



To learn more about CEWD’s program offerings, register for an info session here.

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA)

Submitted by VP Colette Atkins

Trane Technologies Hosts a Lunch and Learn for Hostos Students

Trane Technologies — an industry-leading national heating, cooling, and sustainability innovation company — invited 20 Hostos Engineering students to learn about the sustainability goals and career opportunities available at Trane. DIA extends its gratitude to Professor Yoel Rodríguez and Trane Technologies for their help in bringing this opportunity to Hostos students.  

The Hostos Community College Foundation Allocates More Than $83,000 for Spring Named Scholarships and Awards

The Spring 2024 scholarship opportunities have been approved, and more than $83,000 will be available to Hostos students through donor-supported named scholarships and departmental awards. The Foundation extends its gratitude to more than 30 generous donors and community partners who support our students' academic ambitions. For award details and applications, go here. All scholarship award decisions are made by the Scholarship Office.

BRAVO NEWS

Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community



Congratulations to Student Susan Hu

Susan Hu, a wonderful student of ours, had an enriching experience participating in the India Air Pollution Project. She traveled to three Indian states: Maharashtra (visiting Mumbai, Palghar, and Pune), Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal), and Delhi. In Maharashtra's rural Palghar district, Susan, along with students from other CUNY institutions, was involved in setting up a solar-powered weather and air quality monitoring station. Additionally, she took part in philanthropic activities, which included raising funds for various causes. These funds were used to buy sports uniforms for 190 students at the Zilla Parishad school in Palghar district, provide canes and walkers to senior citizens in Mumbai, and purchase 276 blankets for the blind and homeless in Delhi. We are extremely proud of Susan for her contributions. We also celebrate José Keppis, another distinguished Caiman, who previously participated in this initiative.

Our 9-month LPN Program is Ranked among the Best in NYC

Numerous institutions offer 9-month LPN programs in NYC, and we are ranked #5 in the recently published AZED News list! The Hostos LPN program requires three semesters, two of which are pre-clinical and one clinical. Hostos combines classroom instruction (pre-clinical instruction sequence) with hands-on clinical education in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, nursing homes, and community healthcare centers. Read more here.

HOSTOS FOR EVERYONE

Free Services for the Community



Hostos Offers Free Preventive Dental Hygiene Services to the Public

The Dental Hygiene Patient Care Facility at Hostos Community College is a teaching unit that provides high-quality dental care, primarily cleanings and dental x-rays to the community, while adhering to the most current sterilization techniques. Several appointments will be needed and each may last three hours at a time.

For more information and scheduling, call 718-319-7943.



The appointment schedule is as follows: 

Mondays: 9 AM - 1 PM and 2 - 6 PM

Wednesdays: 8 AM - 12 PM and 2:30 - 6:30 PM

Fridays: 9 AM - 1 PM and 2 - 6 PM

Location: Hostos Dental Hygiene Patient Care Facility

500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY, 10451

B Building 

Note: The clinic does not provide restorative dental work such as fillings, implants, etc.

EVENTS

Title: ONGOING! Exhibit “Against the Grain: The Stories We Tell Ourselves”

Date | Time: Open until February 21 | 8 PM

Location: Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos

Description: "Against the Grain: The Stories We Tell Ourselves" is a group exhibition bringing together work from contemporary artists who challenge and explore the complicated nature of record creation in the contexts of both institutional archives and the emotional preservation of memory. The exhibition's artists explore the notions of the body as an archive, the emotional monuments of domestic spaces and inherited history, and how we connect the disparate dots of memories and world events to best fit the narratives of "The Stories We Tell Ourselves." 

Title: A Palo Seco Flamenco Company

Date | Time: Saturday, February 3 | 7:30 PM

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: Experience A Palo Seco Flamenco Company's captivating fusion of traditional and contemporary flamenco at Hostos Center. Founded in 2010 by artistic director Rebeca Tomas, the NYC-based company is known for its raw, emotional performances. The show features acclaimed repertoire and a preview of "Fieras," a powerful new work portraying the resilience of abuse survivors. Don't miss this dynamic performance by a company that has graced top venues nationwide.

Get tickets here.

Title: Black History Month | Hip-Hop Feminism in the 21st Century

Date | Time: Tuesday, February 6 | 2 PM

Location: B-501

Description: This presentation will begin with an exploration of the origins of hip-hop feminism, a term coined by hip-hop journalist and cultural critic Joan Morgan, Ph.D. in her 1999 book, When Chickenheads Come Home to Roost: A Hip-Hop Feminist Breaks It Down. Since its inception almost twenty-five years ago, hip-hop feminism has grown from being a term used by women hip-hop icons to a field of study inside of academia that has given birth to conferences, anthologies, and scholarly books. This presentation will highlight the key elements of hip-hop feminism as laid out by hip-hop feminist scholars, educators, and activists while looking at the practical applications of these key elements in hip-hop culture. Hence this talk, explores the five pillars of hip-hop — knowledge, graffiti, DJing, MCing, and breakdancing — through the lens of hip-hop feminism while highlighting women and femmes in each of these categories using multimedia materials. Lastly, Flores explores the ways 21st-century hip-hop feminism can serve as a liberatory strategy and methodology to usher a progressive, inclusive, revolutionary future inside and outside of hip-hop culture to challenge white supremacy, gender role expectations, homophobia, cissexism, ableism, and all other forms of intersectional oppression that limit our imaginations, music, bodies, and souls. Light food and refreshments will be served. Sponsor: The Office of Student Activities.

Title: All College Meeting: Welcoming a New Semester

Date | Time: Wednesday, February 7 | 12:30 PM

Location: Savoy Multi-Purpose Room

Description: Join the President and guest speakers on updates pertinent to the College.

Title: Black History Month | Afro-Brazilian Dance Workshop

Date | Time: Wednesday, February 14 | 5:30 PM 

Location: Dance Studio, C-152

Description: Brazil features a rich trajectory in Black Arts attributed to the more than four million Africans from the Nigeria and Benin regions who ushered a blend of unique cultural traditions still practiced today. Janete Da Silva will offer an Afro-Brazilian dance workshop that features her professional training in Afro-Brazilian Traditional dances, Ballet, Modern, Capoeira (a Brazilian Martial Art), Silva Technique (Fuzion of Capoeira and Dance) and Silvestre Technique. Janete Da Silva is a dancer, choreographer, performer and educator from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Da Silva has performed with many acclaimed local and international Companies, including Balé Folclórico da Bahia (Brazil), DanceBrazil (New York), Bahia Brazil (Los Angeles), Orquestra Popular da Bahia (Brazil), Freddick Bratcher and Company (Miami), Brazil Skindo Company (Miami), Viver Brazil Dance Company (L.A), and Ballethnic Dance Company (ATL). Da Silva has also appeared as a dancer on Ivete Sangalo’s DVDs MTV ao Vivo and Maracana. She participated in the Lowell Folk Festival (Lowell), National Black Arts Festival (Georgia), the Brazilian Independence Day Celebration, Target’s Super Sabado! at El Museo del Barrio, and the Houston Brazilian Festival. In addition to her extensive training, Janete teaches workshops throughout the United States and internationally and has recently performed in Musical Explorers 2014 at Carnegie Hall NYC. Sponsor: The Educating for Diversity Grant | Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift President’s Initiatives.

Title: SGA Valentine's Day Booth (Morning Session)

Date | Time: February 16 | 9 AM – 12 PM

Location: SGA Booth, C-building, 3rd floor

Description: Join the SGA as we come together to enjoy Valentine’s Day together, come pick up a candy bag, spin the wheel to win a prize or even send a small token to your friends as a friend admirer.

Title: SGA Valentine's Day Booth (Evening Session)

Date | Time: February 16 | 3 – 6 PM

Location: SGA Booth, C-building, 3rd floor

Description: Join the SGA as we come together to enjoy Valentine’s Day together, come pick up a candy bag, spin the wheel to win a prize or even send a small token to your friends as a friend admirer.

Title: Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company Lunar New Year Celebration: Year of the Dragon

Date | Time: Sunday, February 18 | 3:00 PM

Location: Main Theater

Description: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the acclaimed Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, a leading force in Chinese dance. In 2024, the Year of the Dragon, witness the power and auspicious energy of strength, courage, and good fortune. The Nai-Ni Chen dancers present traditional and contemporary Chinese dances, including the mesmerizing "Dragon Dance," lively "Lion Dance," and elegant "Peacock Dance." Experience new works like "Dragon Path" and the hip-hop-inspired "Lion in the City" with legendary artists Rokafella and Kwikstep. Join us for the magic and wonder of the Lunar New Year at Hostos Center — suitable for all ages and backgrounds.

Get tickets here.

Title: Black History Month | Capoeira Workshop

Date | Time: Tuesday, February 20 | 2 PM

Location: C-152

Description: This interactive performance and Capoeira session features the Afro-Brazilian martial and dance art form developed in the 1500s by enslaved Africans in Brazil which aided them in fighting for freedom during the colonial period. Capoeira incorporates acrobatics, dance, percussion, and songs in a rhythmic dialogue of body, mind, and spirit. This communal game consists of players who create rhythm for the game by clapping, singing, and playing traditional instruments. Mestre Alegria Leandro Silva (Mestre Alegria) will teach this workshop. A Bahia, Brazil native, he began his Capoeira training at the age of ten years old with Mestre Jelon Vieira and has demonstrated and taught capoeira throughout Brazil, the United States, and Europe. An accomplished, professionally trained dancer of various styles (Capoeira, Afro-Brazilian, Modern, Ballet, Contemporary), Mr. Silva has toured the world for several years as a member of the highly acclaimed DanceBrazil dance company. This presentation will feature acrobatic moves, Brazilian songs and played instruments, and a Capoeira lesson for all participants. Sponsor: The Educating for Diversity Grant | Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift President’s Initiatives.

Title: The Hostos Community College African-American Read-In

Date | Time: Monday, February 26 | 2 PM

Location: B-501

Description: In 1990, the Black Caucus of the National Teachers of English (NCTE) instituted the African American Read-In. Since then, Hostos Community College has joined a nationwide community of readers to celebrate the richness and depth of African American literary tradition. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to share their favorite Black poetic works. Contact Professor Ana Ozuna for more information on how to participate: aozuna@hostos.cuny.edu. Light food and refreshments will be served. This event will be moderated by Professor Cynthia Jones, English Department. Sponsor: Student Government Association.

Title: Career Expo

Date | Time: Wednesday, March 27 | 12:30–3:30 PM

Location: C-building, Gym

Description: It’s time for the annual Hostos Community College HIRECAIMANS Career Expo. To all employers, you’re invited to take advantage of this unique opportunity to meet a large group of qualified and talented job seekers in one convenient location. Go here for more information. 

Title: Hostos Community College Foundation Gala

Date | Time: Thursday, May 9 | 6 PM

Location: Glen Island Harbour Club, New Rochelle

Description: Please mark your calendars on Thursday, May 9, for the Hostos Community College Foundation’s 2024 Annual Scholarship Benefit. This year, the Benefit will return to the Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle. Join us for a lively cocktail reception, a delicious dinner, and a program celebrating the impact of the College and honoring inspiring leaders, then close the evening with festive music and dancing. Details and ticket information will be available soon, so please be on the lookout for announcements.

Title: Bronx EdTech Showcase

Date | Time: Friday, May 3 | TBD

Location: TBD

Description: Save the date for the showcase, "Let’s Talk: Rethinking Authentic Learning & Assessment in the Age of AI." More details soon.

ABOUT EL SEMANARIO HOSTOSIANO / THE HOSTOS WEEKLY

El Semanario Hostosiano / The Hostos Weekly is a communication vehicle designed to unite our multiple voices as we share news about members of the Hostos family, provide updates on our projects and upcoming events, and disseminate policy that impacts our work.  

Past issues can be found here.