Friday, February 23, 2024 | Vol. 8, No. 5

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

My Dear Colleagues and Students,

A good week comes to an end. It is powerful to see our students on campus and to celebrate with our students and colleagues being able to greet one another and find ourselves sharing a space so loved by the Hostos family. Last Saturday in Albany, attending and participating in the CUNY luncheon with elected officials Hostos was in the house in a significant way, proudly represented by our SGA leadership. We continue to tell our story of social justice and public higher education transforming the lives of families.

This past week was also about embracing and celebrating diversity in a number of activities outside of the classroom. Just think of the powerful discussions that took place in various venues including Black History Month celebrations and the Dominican Heritage Month celebration. Last Friday Dr. Yates texted about the victory of two of our basketball teams, read more about this here. Bravi!

Our first meeting of the semester with the Hostos Community Advisory Council had generous discussions about planning for our fourth industry summit in the early part of the summer, and our Hostos Advisory Corp. engaged in a conversation and multiple presentations on the Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives. I feel so energized as I share in the enthusiasm of being a part of thoughtful educational opportunities for our students and the multiple opportunities to support faculty mentoring their students on research in different academic fields.

I wish you all another productive and hopeful week.



Mil gracias y bendiciones,

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

President

A POEM

“Hope”

By Emily Dickinson

“Hope” is the thing with feathers -

That perches in the soul -

And sings the tune without the words -

And never stops - at all -

And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard -

And sore must be the storm -

That could abash the little Bird

That kept so many warm -

I’ve heard it in the chillest land -

And on the strangest Sea -

Yet - never - in Extremity,

It asked a crumb - of me.

“The Poems of Emily Dickinson” Edited by R. W. Franklin (Harvard University Press, 1999).

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

A Few Words

As always, Happy Friday, everyone! 

Some remarks to keep in mind this week are:

• Graduation is approaching, so for those who are graduating, stay informed about your status. The Registrar's Office does this. Please email them at: GRADUATIONAUDIT@hostos.cuny.edu or (718) 518-6771. 

• For those who are transferring, please visit Transfer Services on the first level of the D-Building (D-101) or call them at (718) 518-4319. 

• Another great resource to use is the food pantry, available by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, contact Madeline Cruz at (718) 518-4141 or email: mcruz@hostos.cuny.edu.

I’d like to emphasize something I shared previously at the All College Meeting: budget cuts surrounding CUNY, housing, and other local services are devastating and touch us as students, instructors, and faculty. Budget cuts influence programs that should be protected and expanded during economic downturns. Many of us devote most of our time to schooling, and we are enthusiastic about academic life as student scholars and representatives. Living in the South Bronx as a Black, Dominican, Puerto Rican, queer woman, I understand what it's like to have nothing and be left behind, but my experience at Hostos has shown me so much of who I thought I was not. Hostos has brought me to where I am now. College succeeds when instructors meet students where they are and bring them to the finish line, which is exactly what Hostos does. There is a guide for everyone here.

We at SGA hope you will be able to participate in future activities that will allow everyone to build memories and experiences. As usual, I know everyone here at SGA will gladly assist when needed, so please drop by one of our offices for a conversation.

Sincerely,

Dainma

CAIMAN CLUES

Weekly Tips & Reminders to Navigate Life at Hostos

Welcome to another week at Hostos! We have lots of events coming up in the next couple of weeks starting with tips for a successful semester, how to create success habits, and a Majors Fair. Also, find out about paid internships and other resources! 

• Start Strong: Learn effective tips and techniques for a successful semester! On Thursday, February 22, the Hostos Academic Learning Center presented “Starting your Semester off the Right Way (Part 2).” Look for future events at HALC to help keep your studies on track.

• CUNY Career Launch:  CUNY is matching talented students with paid summer internships related to their major. Application (click here) due THIS SUNDAY, February 25.

• Career Management Series: "You Create Your Life: Self-Empowerment and Creating Success Habits for Career Direction & Mindset” workshop will take place on Wednesday, February 28, at 12:00 p.m., Room B-501. 

• Majors Fair: Save the date! Explore the many majors and career path options at Hostos, and meet with faculty and advisors who can tell you more about the academic areas of study available to you. Wednesday, March 6 from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the gym. 

• Resources: Don’t forget to take advantage of all the resources Hostos has to offer!  Here is a handy PDF with lots of information on what you can find on campus.    

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

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

Hostos Campus Climate Initiative Launches New Anti-Hate Events 

Last year Hostos launched the Campus Climate Initiative, which provided workshops, trainings, and community-building activities that align and build on the College’s efforts to advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI), to strengthen our campus community further. With a recent grant awarded to Hostos from the CUNY Anti-Hate Initiative, we will continue to build on this important campus climate work. The CUNY Anti-Hate Initiative is a multi-year effort that will provide funding for CUNY colleges to confront discrimination focused on specific populations each academic year, including Jewish, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI), African American/Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Muslim, and LGBTQ+. The populations of focus for the 2023-24 Anti-Hate initiative are the Jewish and AAPI communities. The Office of the President, in collaboration with the Office of Compliance and Diversity, is coordinating several events to promote cross-cultural awareness and understanding of the identities, experiences, and significant contributions of these diverse communities, as well as inviting community organizations to provide cultural sensitivity trainings focused on antisemitism and anti-AAPI hate.

I am delighted to announce the first campus-wide activity in this new series is the exhibit “Jewish Identity/Jewish Diversity”, featuring the photography of Zion Ozeri, one of the world’s leading photographers exploring the Jewish cross-cultural experience. Mr. Ozeri has spent a lifetime documenting the multifaceted nature of Jewish life in Israel and worldwide. His stunning black-and-white photographs depict family life, artistic expression, cultural events, holiday celebrations, and most importantly, the humanity that unites us all. The exhibit opens on March 5 at the Hostos Research Center and will be open to the Hostos community through May 2, 2024.

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to learn and explore this engaging portrait of the Jewish experience.    

Jewish Identity/Jewish Diversity Opening Reception

Date | Time: Tuesday, March 5, 2024 | 11 AM

Location: Hostos Research Center, C-130

Description: Grand opening of Zion Ozeri photography exhibit with Mr. Ozeri and several special guests in attendance. The exhibit will be open through May 2, 2024. RSVP here for the Opening Reception.

OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, ASSESSMENT, AND RESEARCH (OIERA)

Submitted by Director of Assessment AJ Stachelek, Ed.D.

Academic Assessment Progress in the Academic Year 2023 – 2024 

The goal of this week’s El Semanario contribution is to provide an update for where we are in terms of the timeline for academic assessment for this academic year. Regarding assessment of degree programs and academic department functions, the Program Learning Outcome Template (PLOT) and the Annual Planning and Assessment Report Template (A-PART) should be used throughout the year to outline the progress on both fronts.   

At this stage, the Program Learning Outcome assessment process should be at the point of reviewing and analyzing the assessment data. From this review, there are two possible directions to take to improve the degree programs continuously. One possibility is to redesign the assessment methods used because the results of the assessment are unclear. In this way, the assessment process is being used to improve the method itself. If the assessment method yields results about student learning, now is the time to find ways to alter some aspect of the curriculum or the pedagogy to facilitate such learning better. After all, there is always room for improvement! 

On the departmental level, the A-PART should have the core set of activities that the department has been or plans to engage in during this academic year. These activities will relate to the Strategic Plan, the Academic Implementation Plan, or initiatives undertaken as part of grant work or dedicated release time. As we embark on a new semester, it is time to implement the plans in this document and move into the reporting stage, capturing some preliminary results that have been accomplished during the Fall 2023.  

As of this week, all academic departments have received a copy of the A-PART template and the program directors have received a copy of the PLOT template. Recall that in only a few more months, these documents will need to be finalized for submission by the end of the academic year to highlight the accomplishments of this year.  

If you are in need of any assistance, I am happy to help and will continue to reach out and provide the dates and times I am available to have a conversation about assessment. I look forward to supporting each and every one of you in this work!  

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

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



CUNY Conflict of Interest Policy

It is the policy of the University that all of its activities shall be conducted in accordance with the highest standards of integrity and ethics and in a manner that will not reflect or appear to reflect adversely on the credibility, objectivity, or fairness of the University, its leadership, faculty or staff. With that in mind, we invite you to read the CUNY Conflict of Interest Policy.

OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.





Free Broadband Now Available at 150K NYCHA Households

This week’s updates come from the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit. 

Mayor Adams announced the expansion of "Big Apple Connect" to 17 new public housing developments — contributing to the delivery of free in-home internet and basic cable TV to a total of more than 150,000 households citywide. This expansion builds on the success of the program’s first two phases, which prioritized New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments with limited or no subsidized broadband options.

NYC's Office of Technology and Innovation officially launched Big Apple Connect in September 2022 to ensure that NYCHA residents have access to free, fast, reliable, and safe internet. NYCHA residents without existing home internet will be able to sign up for Big Apple Connect with either Optimum or Spectrum (service provider will depend on where you live). Existing Optimum and Spectrum customers will have their bills reduced to as low as $0, as monthly internet and basic cable TV charges are eliminated.

NYCHA residents in eligible developments are eligible to receive:

• FREE internet connections with download speeds of up to 300 Mbps
• FREE wireless router
• FREE modem
• FREE basic cable TV
• FREE cable box and remote control

If you are a NYCHA resident, check your eligibility here.

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY (OCD)

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

Sexual and Interpersonal Violence Prevention and Response Course for Employees (E-SPARC) and Students (SPARC) 

All employees and students are required to complete the Sexual and Interpersonal Violence Prevention and Response Course (“E-SPARC” for employees and “SPARC” for students). These are web-based training programs developed by the State University of New York in partnership with the City University of New York to satisfy the New York State requirement that every college must adopt a comprehensive orientation and ongoing education campaign to educate students and employees about sexual misconduct, including domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual harassment, gender-based harassment, and sexual violence. These training programs educate students and employees about various topics relating to sexual misconduct and harassment.

If you have not yet completed your respective training, please do so as soon as possible. 

Please refer to the following links for instructions on how to access the training programs:

E-SPARC (Employees) - Hostos Community College (cuny.edu)

SPARC (Students) - Hostos Community College (cuny.edu)

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

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



Spring 2024 Preliminary Census Snapshot

By David Primak, Registrar

We are happy to report that our preliminary Spring 2024 census snapshot enrollment data compares favorably to Spring 2023. Our College is primarily funded on a full-time equivalent (FTE) model, and we experienced a 4.8% increase in FTEs from 3,073 in Spring 2023 to 3,228 in Spring 2024 – primarily driven by a 5% increase in continuing students. We also experienced a 4.8% increase in the total amount of enrolled credit hours from 46,075 in Spring 2023 to 48,386 in Spring 2024. These are positive indicators in terms of retention, pace of progression, and time to degree completion. Furthermore, our student headcount increased by 9.1% from 4,812 in Spring 2023 to 5,291 in Spring 2024. We remain optimistic that we will continue these positive enrollment trends for future terms!

The First Year Experience (FYE) Program Welcomes New and Transfer Students to the Spring 2024 Semester

Submitted by Silvia Reyes, Ed.D.

The First-Year Experience (FYE) program welcomes all new and transfer students as they embark on their new milestone at Hostos. Through orientations, technology workshops, academic support services, and resource information, FYE aims to ensure students are prepared and excited to begin at Hostos. The week of January 15 was full of activities to get students ready for their first semester. Students had the opportunity to attend virtual technology workshops (CUNYfirst, Succeed@Hostos, DegreeWorks and BlackBoard), financial aid workshops, as well as an in-person orientation and a virtual welcome. 

FYE is incredibly pleased with the turnout we had. Close to 180 students participated in virtual workshops, and over 200 new and transfer students participated in the in-person orientation held on Saturday, January 20. Some students who were unable to attend the in-person orientation attended the virtual welcome on February 1st. 

FYE is supported by members of the College community, including FYE peer mentors and staff members from OAA and SDEM. 

Career Services

Submitted by Lisanette Rosario

Career Infused Degree Maps

Hostos Community College is excited to announce its receipt of a $23,000 award from CUNY Careers and Industry Partnerships, thanks to the successful proposal prepared by Ms. Lisanette Rosario, Director of Career Services. This funding will support the development of Hostos’ Initiative for Career Infused Degree Maps. Developing Career Infused Degree Maps will ensure that students are not only meeting their degree requirements but are also achieving significant career milestones right from their first semester. Research from Ball State University, highlighted by NASPA, shows “career interventions significantly influence retention and graduation rates” (NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education). Faculty and staff across the college will join this transformative conversation and support the development of these maps. The initial project will focus on three academic programs (Accounting AAS/AS, Early Childhood Education AAS, and Liberal Arts & Sciences, AA) and expand to more programs in the following year. This milestone reflects our commitment to fostering a holistic educational environment where academic excellence and career preparation go hand in hand, shaping a future where every student achieves their full potential.

Accelerating Engineering Pathways Grant Award

Ms. Lisanette Rosario will be awarded a $5,000 grant from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) for the initiative "Accelerating Engineering Pathways for CTE and Community College Students in a COVID-Changed World." This award marks the beginning of an exciting collaboration between faculty, staff, and students. Together, we will implement a series of tailored activities, including virtual and in-person workshops, hands-on competitions, and networking opportunities, all designed to equip our students with the critical skills needed for success in a digitally evolving world. Free student membership: ASME Student Membership (airtable.com).

Candid Careers and Conversations

Ms. Laura Hand and Ms. Lisanette Rosario are recipients of the Educating for Diversity Grant, made possible by Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives for Student Success, College Growth and Stakeholders' Engagement. “Candid Careers and Conversations” launches the Career Symposium April 11th in partnership with CUNY Career Success Fellows.

EVENTS                                                      

Title: NAICA Hiring Hall

Date | Time: Wednesday, February 28 | 2 – 6 PM

Location: D-210

Register at this link and visit Career Services by TODAY, Friday, February 23, to prepare your resume in advance. On the day of, no appointment is needed! Just bring yourself and your resume to the D-building, Savoy Multipurpose Room.

Title: Career Expo

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

Location: C-building GYM

Explore career opportunities and network with industry professionals! Registration, professional attire, and an approved resume are required. Register here. 

Title: NYPD Job Fair

Date | Time: Wednesday, April 10 | 10 AM – 3 PM

Location: D-210

The NYPD’s various bureaus and units offer jobs from officer to scuba diver to communications technician and more. Officer roles start at $58,580 per year. No appointment is needed; just drop into the Gym at the C-building.

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

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by VP La Toro Yates, Ph.D.

Admissions and Recruitment

In collaboration with the Office of the Bronx Borough President, Hon. Vanessa L. Gibson, the Hostos Office of Admissions and Recruitment and other renowned Bronx colleges will present at the Higher Education College Fair!

Date | Time: Thursday, March 7 | 4 – 8 PM

Location: Bronx Community College

At this dynamic event, prospective students, parents, and educators from our vibrant Bronx community will have the invaluable opportunity to explore an array of higher education options all under one roof. The Higher Education College Fair promises to be an enriching experience for all. Mark your calendars and spread the word!

Caiman Direct

As part of our ongoing commitment to our students’ success, we are excited to introduce Virtual Late-Night Advisement sessions with the Student Success Coaching Unit via Caiman Direct. Whether students have questions about activating their webmail, need assistance setting an appointment with an Academic Advisor or Student Success Coach, or seek guidance on classes and majors, our dedicated Student Advocates and Success Coaches are here to provide you with direct support and valuable insights.

Date | Time: Every Wednesday and Thursday | 5 – 6:45 PM

No registration is required. 

Click here to join the session!

Student Leadership Academy

Three students: Yessica Pacheco (PTK), Laura Saint-Hilaire (President’s Office) and Kimberly Hill (SLA/PTK), and Student Leadership Coordinator Jason Libfeld from Hostos Community College were invited to "Dominican Day at the White House", a briefing and reception for Dominican-American stakeholders on Tuesday, February 6.

The group was invited to a Panel on Economic Investments and the impact on the Dominican Communities across the United States. This discussion was led by Elizabeth de Leon Bhargava, Assistant Secretary of Administration, Alejandra Y. Castillo, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, and other officials.

The students also had an opportunity to attend a reception, where they heard remarks from the Second Gentleman Douglass Emhoff, the Senior Advisor to the President of the United States Tom Perez, and Representative Adriano Espaillat.

There was also a folkloric performance and the opportunity for the students to take photos and discuss important issues facing students in New York City and the State with many of the officials who were on hand and happy to see Hostos represented at this special event.

The President’s Office and Elías Alcántara, Chair of the Hostos Community Advisory Council, made this wonderful opportunity possible for the students, who were very happy to participate.

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 contact Program and 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? 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. 

Scholarships



The Dream.US National Scholarship Deadline is February 29

Applications are open to undocumented immigrant students with or without DACA or TPS who came to the U.S. before age 16 and before November 1, 2018. This award will cover tuition and fees up to a certain maximum amount. Some scholars may receive an additional stipend for books, supplies, and transportation for up to $6,000. Learn more here.

Hispanic Federation Undocumented Student Support Fund

The Hispanic Federation (HF) seeks to empower and advance the Hispanic community, support Hispanic families, and strengthen Latino institutions through work in the areas of education, health, immigration, civic engagement, economic empowerment, and the environment. Continuing its commitment to serve and support New York City’s young immigrant population, the Hispanic Federation is proud to provide support funds to aid eligible undocumented students. HF is awarding student support funds to eligible students in the form of tuition support or grocery assistance. The HF fund is open to all students without immigration status, regardless of country of birth.

Questions?

Contact Marina Esquilín, Scholarship Coordinator, at 718-518-4166 or mesquilin@hostos.cuny.edu. 

Hostos One Stop

Fresh Food Produce

Every Wednesday until May 15 | Time: 12 PM

Location: Savoy Building, first floor

All Hostos students are welcome. First come, first served.  

For additional information, please contact Madeline Cruz at 718-518-4141 or email mcruz@hostos.cuny.edu.

Transfer Services

Stay informed and engaged with our upcoming Spring 2024 events to maximize your transfer journey. Please consider attending one of our recurring events below. No appointments are necessary. 

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 – 2 PM

Location: A-Atrium

You can email us at transferservices@hostos.cuny.edu, call us at 718.518.4457, or follow us on Instagram @hostostransferservices.  

Other Student-Centered Events!

Student Empowerment Day (ARC)

ARC, in conjunction with CUNY Central and the CCSD Student Club, will participate in Student Empowerment Day. Students, staff, and faculty are invited to gather in Albany and rally for additional funding to support disability services in Higher Ed.

When: Monday, February 26th 2024

Location: Albany (Day Trip)

Register here.

Kaplan Leadership Program Virtual Info Session

Wednesday, March 13 | Time: 3 PM

Location: TBD

Learn about the Kaplan Leadership Program and Universal College Transfer. The Scholarship Office will provide more details about the info session as we approach the date.

POEMS TO INSPIRE THE COMMUNITY

“Still Here”

By Langston Hughes

I been scared and battered.

My hopes the wind done scattered.

Snow has friz me,

Sun has baked me,

Looks like between 'em they done

Tried to make me

Stop laughin', stop lovin', stop livin'--

But I don't care!

I'm still here!

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne



Cafeteria Vendor Search Update

We hope everyone has been able to try the Farmer’s Fridge food. Given how quickly the inventory is being purchased, it seems to be a big hit with the community. The Fridge empties out quickly, but fortunately, Farmer’s Fridge comes and restocks three days a week – Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh food. If the Fridge continues to be popular with our students, faculty, and staff after this first month, we may be able to get a second Fridge on campus.

The Procurement Directors for Hostos, LaGuardia, and Bronx continue to progress toward completing the RFP for a cafeteria vendor. Having gathered the data from the surveys and discussed the financials, they are now finalizing the scope of work and are optimistic that the RFP will be ready soon. If Hostos students, faculty, or staff know any vendors who may be interested in applying, please have them reach out to our Procurement Director, Devon Hariprashad (dhariprashad@hostos.cuny.edu).

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

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

CEWD Receives Funding to Provide Training to Asylum Seekers

CEWD was awarded $250,000 from CUNY Central’s Workforce Development Initiative—Contract Courses/Workforce Development funding program—to support the CUNY English Language for Work Initiative.  This initiative aims to provide asylum seekers with occupational training to obtain employment and establish roots in New York City.  At Hostos, CEWD will provide up to 75 asylum seekers with access to contextualized English as a Second Language (ESL) occupational training over the next three years. This funding will allow CEWD to expand its existing contextualized ESL occupational training program for Home Health Aides and develop a new contextualized ESL occupational training program for Customer Service/Retail, resulting in an industry-recognized credential from the National Retail Federation (NRF).



Virtual Information Sessions

Please attend one of our info sessions to learn more about CEWD’s program offerings. Register here and go here to browse our online catalog. 

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA)

Submitted by VP Colette Atkins

The Office of Alumni Relations Launches New Alumni Advisory Council

The Office of Alumni Relations is excited to announce the Alumni Advisory Council, which held its first meeting on February 9. This council will generate innovative ideas that will contribute to the progress of our students, focusing on building a culture of alumni philanthropy, identifying career advancement opportunities for students and alumni, and advancing the College's academic mission. We warmly invite all Hostos Community College alumni interested in joining this promising committee to contact Felix Sánchez, our alumni relations manager, via email at fsanchez@hostos.cuny.edu. Your valuable input and participation are highly encouraged and greatly appreciated.

BRAVO NEWS

Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community



Hostos Caimans Secure Legendary Double Triumph: Capturing Both Men’s and Women’s 2024 CUNYAC Community College Championships in Epic Fashion

In a thrilling showcase of skill and determination, the 14th nationally-ranked Hostos Community College Women’s Basketball team solidified their reign over the CUNY Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) by securing their 11th championship title, achieving an unprecedented seventh consecutive title defense. For their part, in a nail-biting, historic double overtime marked by 17 ties, the Men’s Basketball team emerged victorious to secure a second league title in three seasons and their seventh in history. Both triumphs unfolded on Friday, February 16, at Kingsborough Community College. Read more about it here and here. 

Hostos Participates at CUNY Caucus Luncheon during NYS Legislators Conference

On Saturday, February 17, Hostos proudly participated in the CUNY Caucus Annual Luncheon during the NYS Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislators, Inc.'s 53rd Annual Legislative Conference in Albany. This gathering, organized by CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez in collaboration with Assemblywoman Michaelle Solanges, NYSBPRHAL Caucus Chair, and Assemblywoman Latrice M. Walker, Chairwoman of the NYSBPRHA Legislators, brought together a diverse array of stakeholders.

The Hostos delegation, led by President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, included Dean of Community Relations Ana García Reyes, Executive Chief of Staff Diana Kreymer, Governmental Affairs Director Dr. Eric Radezky, SGA President Dainma Martínez, and members of her leadership team. The event attracted a full house of legislators, policymakers, CUNY executive leaders, and student representatives.

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.

ATHLETICS CALENDAR

Please stay tuned for updates about the NJCAA Regional Championships here!

EVENTS

Title: ONGOING! Playwriting Workshops

Date | Time: Happening until March 20

Location: C–453

Description: Join award-winning playwright Eric Avilés from Liberation Arts Collective for an immersive Playwriting & Theater Workshop series. Free and open to all, with special consideration given to people of color, people with disabilities, and Bronx residents (18 and above), these workshops emphasize holistic self-exploration, a nurturing and collaborative environment, connection-building, meditation, and creative games. Every Wednesday from February 14 through March 20. Two Sessions: 1 – 3 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m. For afternoon sessions, register here. For evening sessions, register here. For questions or more information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Eric Avilés at eaviles@hostos.cuny.edu.

Title: TODAY! A 170 Years of Merengue Concert

Date | Time: Friday, February 23 | 7:30 PM

Location: Main Theater

Description: Join us TONIGHT, for an unforgettable night of típico, modern, and super-modern merengue at the Main Theater. Hosted by Vizcaino, featuring performances by Dominican legends Aramis Camilo, Ninoshka, Richie Cepeda, Charlie Rodríguez, and Chiqui Taveras. Celebrate Dominican culture and heritage with the NCue Band. Get tickets here.

Title: Black History Month |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: Play “How the Turtle Lost its Shell”

Date | Time: Wednesday, February 28 and Thursday, February 29 | 10 AM & 11 AM (two functions each day)

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: Chief Baba Neil introduces the audience to African instruments and various words from African languages. Then, this witty and wise folk tale of a little turtle who outsmarts a fierce leopard and is rewarded with a shell comes to life through movement, dance, and puppetry! For tickets and more info, go here.

Title: Black at Hostos Town Hall Series Presents a Q&A with SVC Glenda Grace

Date | Time: Wednesday, February 28 | 11 AM

Location: C-391

Description: Join moderator Professor Kristopher Burrell as he engages in a question and answer session with CUNY SVC Glenda Grace, Esq., in which they discuss the racial politics of education.

Jewish Identity/Jewish Diversity Opening Reception

Date | Time: Tuesday, March 5, 2024 | 11 AM

Location: Hostos Research Center, C-130

Description: Grand opening of Zion Ozeri photography exhibit with Mr. Ozeri and several special guests in attendance. The exhibit will be open through May 2, 2024. RSVP here for the Opening Reception.



Title: Race and Gender in Dominican Women’s Poetry: Aída Cartagena Portalatín to This Day

Date | Time: Tuesday, March 5 | 2 PM

Location: Faculty Dining Room (C-312)

Description: Join Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis and Poet, Playwright, and Essayist Chiqui Vicioso in exploring Aída Cartagena Portalatín and her influence on the Dominican women's poetry landscape. Attendees will navigate the intricate intersections of race, gender, and poetic expression, fostering a dialogue that will unveil the profound impact of Cartagena Portalatín's work in contemporary Dominican literature.

Title: Play “It’s A Marvelous Paper Bag World”

Date | Time: Thursday, April 4 | 10:30 AM

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: "It’s A Marvelous Paper Bag World!" is the latest show from The Paper Bag Players, America’s oldest children’s theater. Packed with new acts and beloved classics, this family-friendly production promises hilarious stories, lively dances, charming characters, catchy tunes, audience engagement, and the iconic paper and cardboard sets and costumes. All kids aged 3-9 (and the young at heart) are welcome to join in the fun! Get tickets here. 

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 | Time TBD

Location: Cafeteria Dining Space (C-building, Third Floor)

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

Title: Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremonies

Date | Time: Wednesday, May 29 at 1 PM | Thursday, May 30 at 11 AM

Location: Main Theater

Description: Make sure that you are up to date with applying for graduation! Get more info here.

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.