Friday, February 9, 2024 | Vol. 8, No. 3 | |
MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS | |
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My Dear Colleagues and Students,
I am happy to share remarks from this week’s All College Meeting: The Beginning of a New Semester. Thank you for the show of support from students, faculty, and staff who joined us for the meeting on Wednesday.
All College Meeting: The Beginning of a New Semester
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Hostos Community College | Savoy Multi-Purpose Room
Welcome Remarks – Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D., President
Dear Members of the Hostos Family,
It is good to be with you all, sharing our All College Beginning of the Semester Gathering. The beauty of this afternoon owes much to the Hostos family. Thank you, Diana Kreymer, our moderator, and the wonderful team of speakers this afternoon. As always, this presentation is intended to feature a rich array of diverse voices, underscoring the generous team efforts taking place at our College. It is also in keeping with the now-established practice in El Semanario Hostosiano / The Hostos Weekly, designed to share information often and widely and for the College community to hear perspectives and information from multiple voices.
Just as I walked into the building, I was welcomed by a line of students waiting to receive their tote bags from our food pantry. A special thank you to Idelsa Mendez of the Division of Institutional Advancement and Madeline Cruz of One Stop for the wonderful support in the form of healthy vegetables and pantry staples for our students and their families. Mil gracias y bendiciones.
We begin our Spring 2024 semester with encouraging and significant growth in enrollment. More on enrollment management strategies will be discussed by VP Yates this afternoon. How wonderful it is to be able to meet students as I walk on campus, to hold our SGA meetings in person in our conference room, with President Martínez leading a dynamic SGA team.
Our Hostos Strategic Plan 2023-28 has begun implementation. Please be reminded that among the core principles is a commitment to designing academic pathways that lead to family-sustaining jobs at minimum for Hostos graduates who are 95% underrepresented minority and low-income. Provost Wang will be providing an update on OAA’s work in her update.
Much work is being planned for this semester as Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift initiatives continue to grow, and the Hostos Research Center’s activities contribute to supporting and celebrating research and mentorship at Hostos. Please continue to read all communications from Dr. Oviedo as she announces activities approved by the Hostos Advisory Corps and provides updates on the multiple ways in which students, faculty, and staff are engaging in the creation of very intentional activities in support of retention, faculty and students’ engagement in research and connections among different programs and so much more. Executive Chief of Staff Kreymer will introduce a selection of important upcoming events later in the program. Please look for opportunities to engage and participate as we continue to benefit from this generous Gift and the engagement and collaboration of so many on campus.
Chair Ialongo will be bringing greetings on behalf of the College-wide Senate and President Martínez on behalf of the Student Government Association. Their participation is valuable and much appreciated. SVP Rodríguez-Chardavoyne will give information on the budget and the work at the College to support our students and our mission. At this time of budgetary uncertainty and restraint, we owe a debt of gratitude to SVP for her diligence and effectiveness.
Soon, if not already, we will be looking at class schedules for both summer and fall, understanding that class schedules are to be designed to enhance access and support social mobility. Much attention will continue to be paid to enrollment patterns and creating new ways for students to engage with the College. To support this effort, the Registrar’s Office and the Office of Academic Affairs continue to conduct a number of analyses designed to assist in projecting, with flexibility, potential areas to explore.
We will pay more attention to advisement, both by OAA and the Student Success Coaching Unit, as we labor to support the retention of students and also to reach out to continuing students who stopped out and need to return to complete credentials. Non-credit and credit programs will deepen their connection as we create more stackable credentials, from non-credit certificates, credit certificates, and associate degrees, and enhance our relationships both with industry and community business, health providers, and others and with our sister institutions at CUNY. To support these efforts, philanthropy and sponsored programming will continue to receive intentional and additional attention as we work even harder to bring new resources to support programmatic innovation and retention to graduation.
After a very successful Business Summit this past fall, the Spring semester will focus our work with the HCC Community Advisory Council, which will be planning and working with leadership at the College to create our June industry summit in Radiologic Technology, designed to connect our programs with industry partners. I’ll say it again, we are fortunate to have Lehman alumnus and leader in the finance world Elias Alcántara as Chair of our Advisory Council. Our Vice Chair is someone well-known to Hostos, our own Dr. Nydia Edgecombe.
Dear Hostos family, Hostos Community College is committed to living its mission in generous and talented ways. Let me just affirm the six pillars of our HCC Mission Statement:
- Provide access to higher education.
- Serve as a community resource.
- Celebrate diversity and multiculturalism.
- Facilitate socio-economic mobility.
- Develop linguistic, mathematical, technological, and critical thinking proficiencies.
- Foster intellectual growth and lifelong learning.
Before I close my remarks, I am pleased to announce that our Spring Commencement ceremonies will be held on May 29 and May 30 in the Main Theater. I look forward to shaking hands with all of the graduates as their names are announced and they walk across the stage to be congratulated by faculty and staff. We hope you will join this annual rite of passage.
Finally, as always, I end my brief remarks with a quote you will hear me bring up often from Pablo Neruda’s Nobel Laureate speech: “All paths lead to the same goal; to convey to others what we are…but in this dance or this song there are fulfilled the most ancient rites of our conscience in the awareness of being human and of believing in a common destiny.”
I believe that our common destiny is that of a community of purpose, an academic community that partners with multiple stakeholders and works closely together in harmony and concert to ensure that Eugenio Maria de Hostos Community College will live up to the promise made in our mission to embrace diversity and opportunity as the birthright of all.
Mil gracias y bendiciones,
Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.
President
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A POEM TO INVITE REFLECTION | |
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“Poema 20”
By Pablo Neruda
Puedo escribir los versos más tristes esta noche.
Escribir, por ejemplo: "La noche está estrellada,
y tiritan, azules, los astros, a lo lejos".
El viento de la noche gira en el cielo y canta.
Puedo escribir los versos más tristes esta noche.
Yo la quise, y a veces ella también me quiso.
En las noches como ésta la tuve entre mis brazos.
La besé tantas veces bajo el cielo infinito.
Ella me quiso, a veces yo también la quería.
Cómo no haber amado sus grandes ojos fijos.
Puedo escribir los versos más tristes esta noche.
Pensar que no la tengo. Sentir que la he perdido.
Oír la noche inmensa, más inmensa sin ella.
Y el verso cae al alma como pasto el rocío.
Qué importa que mi amor no pudiera guardarla.
La noche está estrellada y ella no está conmigo.
Eso es todo. A lo lejos alguien canta. A lo lejos.
Mi alma no se contenta con haberla perdido.
Como para acercarla mi mirada la busca.
Mi corazón la busca, y ella no está conmigo.
La misma noche que hace blanquear los mismos árboles.
Nosotros, los de entonces, ya no somos los mismos.
Ya no la quiero, es cierto, pero cuánto la quise.
Mi voz buscaba el viento para tocar su oído.
De otro. Será de otro. Como antes de mis besos.
Su voz, su cuerpo claro. Sus ojos infinitos.
Ya no la quiero, es cierto, pero tal vez la quiero.
Es tan corto el amor, y es tan largo el olvido.
Porque en noches como ésta la tuve entre mis brazos,
mi alma no se contenta con haberla perdido.
Aunque éste sea el último dolor que ella me causa,
y éstos sean los últimos versos que yo le escribo.
“Poem 20”
Translated by Stephen Tappscot, Ph.D.
Tonight I can write the saddest lines.
Write, for example, "The night is starry
and the stars are blue and shiver in the distance."
The night wind revolves in the sky and sings.
Tonight I can write the saddest lines.
I loved her, and sometimes she loved me too.
Through nights like this one I held her in my arms.
I kissed her again and again under the endless sky.
She loved me, sometimes I loved her too.
How could one not have loved her great still eyes.
Tonight I can write the saddest lines.
To think that I do not have her. To feel that I have lost her.
To hear the immense night, still more immense without her.
And the verse falls to the soul like dew to the pasture.
What does it matter that my love could not keep her.
The night is starry and she is not with me.
This is all. In the distance someone is singing. In the distance.
My soul is not satisfied that it has lost her.
My sight tries to find her as though to bring her closer.
My heart looks for her, and she is not with me.
The same night whitening the same trees.
We, of that time, are no longer the same.
I no longer love her, that's certain, but how I loved her.
My voice tried to find the wind to touch her hearing.
Another's. She will be another's. As she was before my kisses.
Her voice, her bright body. Her infinite eyes.
I no longer love her, that's certain, but maybe I love her.
Love is so short, forgetting is so long.
Because through nights like this one I held her in my arms
my soul is not satisfied that it has lost her.
Though this be the last pain that she makes me suffer
and these the last verses that I write for her.
Originally published in “20 poemas de amor y una canción desesperada” (1924).
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MESSAGE FROM THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT DAINMA MARTINEZ | |
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February Continues To Welcome You
Happy Friday, everyone!
We at the SGA hope that the semester is going great so far. As you all know we at the SGA are here to provide the CARE you need. For any concerns that you may have, I highly encourage you to stop by your advisor's office to discuss anything that is necessary. Or even if you are just feeling stressed, stop by the Counseling Center in the C-building 3rd floor. Another great resource to use is the Hostos Academic Learning Center (HALC) for tutoring. I know classes may seem a bit stressful now but as time goes on, remember the main thing: Here at Hostos, you are not alone.
While this month progresses, we at the SGA hope you will be able to attend forthcoming activities that will help build memories and moments for everyone. As usual, I know that everyone at the SGA is more than willing to help when required, so pop by one of our offices for a talk.
Sincerely,
Dainma
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Weekly Tips & Reminders to Navigate Life at Hostos
We hope that you are hitting your stride, finding your way around campus, and enjoying the semester so far. Don’t forget to check CUNY’s academic calendar for important dates!
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Check Out Togetherall: Togetherall is an online, peer-to-peer mental health support community available for FREE to all CUNY students. It is accessible 24/7 and is completely anonymous. The platform offers a range of activities and support to help you work through what's troubling you. Share how you're feeling, listen, and be heard in a supportive community of peers. Go here to start.
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MS. MACKENZIE SCOTT’S GIFT: PRESIDENT’S INITIATIVES | |
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Submitted by Sofía Oviedo, Ph.D., Research Programs Director
Updates
There is much to look forward to this semester as the various events and projects that were awarded funding through the Educating for Diversity Initiative get underway. These wonderful projects will provide our Hostos community with multi-faceted opportunities for learning about and honoring our diversity. Click here to see the complete list of grantees and project descriptions. Continue to follow El Semanario/The Hostos Weekly for updates and announcements on upcoming Educating for Diversity events.
The Hostos Research Center’s Call for 2024 ADELANTE Project Proposals is still open, and the application deadline has been extended to February 13, 2024. Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded to support faculty/staff-led projects that advance research, need-based, and/or creative/transformative interventions in all disciplines. We are also seeking proposals that aim to conduct research on critical issues impacting the South Bronx. The funding will support year-long research projects that also engage students as research assistants. If you have a new research project/intervention that you want to develop and that will enhance the learning experience for our students, do not miss this opportunity to submit your proposal.
Click here to access the full Call for Proposals.
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INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT (OIERA) | |
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Submitted by Dean Babette Audant, Ph.D.
Mid-year Snapshot: First-Year Experience and One-term Retention
Offering students a comprehensive, integrated First Year Experience (FYE) can provide new students with a strong start. FYE is a nationally recognized high-impact practice that is strongly correlated to retention, which is strongly correlated to graduation. It is also the first Strategy of the first Goal of the 2023-28 Hostos Strategic Plan.
Hostos’ First Year Experience is designed and implemented by a FYE Committee co-chaired by Dr. Silvia Reyes (OAA) and Associate Dean Sterling (SDEM). It comprises new student orientation, technology workshops, career and transfer exploration events, and more. The goal is to introduce students to resources across Hostos, support academic/career pathways exploration, and create a sense of belonging/institutional attachment. Preliminary data strongly suggest a positive correlation between participation in FYE and one-term retention. OIERA will track other student outcomes related to FYE in coordination with the FYE Committee.
First Year Experience events served a total of 497 unique students (including transfer and readmits) in Fall 2023.*
More details here:
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31% of First-Time Freshmen Participated in the First Year Experience
The Fall 2023 First-Time Freshmen cohort consisted of 1055 students — 326 of these students attended at least one FYE event, while 729 did not.
81% of (FTF) Students Participating in FYE Retained in Spring 2024
Of the 326 students who attended at least one FYE event, 265 of these students enrolled in the Spring 2024 semester. In contrast, of the 729 First-Time Freshmen who did not attend any of the FYE events, 425 (58%) enrolled in the Fall 2023 semester.
Please continue communicating to new students (FTF, transfers, readmits) the importance of First Year Experience, and check out the new FYE website.
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OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS | |
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Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.
NYC Free Tax Prep
This week’s update comes from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), which has started its NYC Free Tax Prep campaign. The IRS has announced that it will begin accepting tax returns on January 29, and DCWP wants to make sure all eligible New Yorkers use the NYC Free Tax Prep.
New Yorkers who earned $85,000 or less for families or $59,000 or less as single filers in 2023 will be eligible to file for free with an IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer. Visit the DCWP website NYC Free Tax Prep, to find out more.
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OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY (OCD) | |
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Submitted by Chief Diversity Officer, Title IX Coordinator, and 504/ADA Coordinator Philip Oliveri, Esq.
Lunar New Year
Dear Hostos Community,
As we embark on the festivities of the Lunar New Year, I extend my warmest wishes to each member of our diverse and vibrant campus community. This special occasion holds immense cultural significance for many, marking the beginning of a new lunar cycle and symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and good fortune. May the Year of the Wood Dragon bring you and your loved ones joy, health, and success in all of your endeavors. Let us take this opportunity to appreciate the rich traditions and customs that make our community unique … fostering tolerance, understanding, and unity among us. Gong Xi Fa Cai! Happy Lunar New Year!
Best,
Philip
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OFFICE OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS | |
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Submitted by Dean Ana García Reyes
Applications Open for Professional Development Study Abroad Program
Applications are now open for the Hostos Teacher Training/Professional Development and Study Abroad Program in the Dominican Republic. From June 17 to 20, the participants will attend professional development workshops facilitated by local partners from the New York City Department of Education, faculty from CUNY campuses, and community-based organizations serving English language learner students.
From June 27 to July 7, the participants will continue their program in the Dominican Republic, engaging in cultural and academic enrichment workshops for 10 days. The workshops will include lectures and training facilitated by faculty from Dominican institutions. In addition, the program offers site visits to public schools, the National Palace, cultural centers, guided tours to museums and art galleries, and historical sites. Hostos Community College offers this program in collaboration with New York City CUNY colleges, New York City Public Schools, CBO-Cultural Centers, and higher learning institutions. Participants who complete the Continuing Teacher and Leader Education Program hours will receive CTLE certificates. Hostos is an approved New York State DOE sponsor of CTLE.
Former program participants have developed innovative curricula across disciplines that address gender, race, ethnicity, and identity. Other topics include the immigrant experience of the English language learner population. Alumni and partners have lauded the Summer Professional Development Program as a life-long transformative experience that has positively impacted their work as educators.
Contact Mr. Gerson Peña (gpena@hostos.cuny.edu) or Dean Ana García Reyes (agreyes@hostos.cuny.edu) for the application packet due April 23, 2024.
Dominican Heritage Month Awards and Recognitions Ceremony
The awards ceremony will occur on February 22, at 3 p.m., in the A-building Atrium. Distinguished Dominican leaders will be recognized, and student scholars will receive scholarships. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, please contact Dean Ana García Reyes (agreyes@hostos.cuny.edu) or Mr. Gerson Peña (gpena@hostos.cuny.edu). This event is sponsored by the Office of the President, the Office of Community Relations, the SGA, and Pediatrics 2000/Dr. Juan Tapia Mendoza.
Hostos Represented at Governor Hochul’s Announcement to Increase Mental Health Services
Governor Kathy Hochul announced $50 million to expand inpatient mental health services for children and adults in New York State. Hostos Director of Health and Wellness, Mr. Fabián Wander, and Dean Ana García Reyes had the opportunity to congratulate Governor Kathy Hochul in person for the significant investment in this state-wide initiative. City and state elected officials, community stakeholders, and health experts participated in the press conference announcement held on Thursday, January 11, in the Bronx.
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OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA) | |
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Submitted by Provost and VP Shiang-Kwei Wang, Ph.D.
All College Meeting Remarks by Provost Wang
Presented at the All College Meeting on February 7
Good afternoon, President, faculty, staff, students, and my colleagues. I’ll start by introducing you to our newly hired faculty member for Spring 2024.
The new faculty is Professor Catherine Monchik, Allied Health Sciences Department, Dental Hygiene. New staff, Theodore LaPerre, ASAP advisor; Lenny Romano, ASAP advisor; Laura Hand, Assistant Director, Career Services; Carlana Billy, Enrollment Registrar Coordinator, Registrar’s Office; Leonard Cardinale, Clinical Coordinator, Allied Health, who graduated from Hostos 50 year ago.
Spring 2024 Scheduling update: Last November, when enrollment for Spring 2024 opened, there were 846 sections offered. Today, Spring 2024 offers 875 sections, including 17 late-start sections. There are an additional 60 College Now and Early College sections, the majority of which were assigned to adjunct faculty. Because of Hostos' participation in the FRNYC project, we have been able to offer more College Now and Early College sections than in previous academic years. In terms of modality, 65% of the courses for Spring 2024 are offered in-person, 29% are online, and 6% are hybrid.
Faculty Lines: The 2030 targets set by CUNY's 'Lifting New York' initiative include enrollment, retention, graduation, and employment rates. Our hiring plan should, therefore, prioritize support for areas that have the potential to boost enrollment, introduce new programs, and prepare graduates for high-wage employment opportunities. In alignment with these objectives, the following faculty line requests have been approved:
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Allied Health: one Assistant Professor in Radiologic Technology, two Assistant Professors in Dental Hygiene, and one Assistant Professor in Nursing. Hostos has been expanding our Allied Health programs and preparing more health workers to meet the needs of the South Bronx community. Additionally, the department is creating new programs, including Pre-Allied Health and Surgical Technology programs.
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Business: two Assistant Professors. The Business Department is developing new programs and implementing new initiatives, such as the Data Analytics program and the AAS redesign initiative.
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Math: one Assistant Professor. The Math Department has been offering new career-focused programs, such as Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Construction Management.
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Natural Sciences: one Assistant Professor. This faculty member is essential to support our STEM student research opportunities and mentorship programs, which are vital for preparing students for successful careers in STEM fields.
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Library: one Assistant Professor. The Library directly supports our students, maintains in-person and virtual services, and offers the expanded student laptop loaner program. These services require the full-time support of faculty.
Most of OAA’s accomplishments can be attributed to our two Deans, ten Chairs, Unit Coordinators, faculty, OAA directors, and staff. The first I want to mention is the completion and implementation of the Academic Implementation Plan, which is now available on the OAA website. This document will be updated once a year through the leadership of the three working groups.
Last fall, we launched the fully online program with Liberal Arts AA and Education programs. This semester, we have 47 students enrolled in the fully online program. The Fall 2023 cohort’s one-term retention rate for the fully online program is 78%, very similar to the campuses' one-term retention rate of 80%.
Through the Chair's leadership, we piloted the late start session last fall and continue to expand the late start offerings this spring.
In collaboration with SSCU, we have developed a comprehensive faculty/advisor liaison model in each academic department, as well as offered lunch-and-learn activities to strengthen faculty and advisor communication in terms of supporting students’ academic success.
The Title V Grant provides us the support to implement many activities that are the best strategies to support students in achieving their academic goals. We will launch the summer bridge program this Summer to provide students with early support and help them become college-ready. In terms of curriculum, we are developing a semester-long seminar on incorporating JDEI into the curriculum. We will expand the Supplemental Instruction program in gateway courses. We developed a FYS course for high school students.
With Professor Jackie DiSanto’s leadership and the Center for Teaching and Learning’s support, we have developed AI syllabus templates so that faculty can have a resource for clear guidance on AI use in the classroom.
Through the support of the President's Office and CEWD, we offered the third Industry Summit in the field of Business Management.
Through the support of the Congressional Scholars Earmark grant and Ms. McKenzie Scott’s President Initiatives grants, 16 earmark scholars will continue with their studies, and transfer to four-year colleges.
In Fall 2023, ASAP and CUNY Start launched the Jump Start pilot, which offers a cohort model to assist students in fostering community and being successful in their academic work.
Through FRNYC, we are partnering with high schools to develop labor market-aligned career-connected pathways to prepare students for high-growth careers.
This semester, we are collaborating with faculty and staff on several new initiatives:
- We will continue to expand our fully online programs.
- EdTech and our faculty fellow will support faculty during the transition to the new Learning Management System (LMS) Brightspace.
- We are working with CUNY Central to transition from Succeed@Hostos to Navigate. The onboarding process is expected to begin in Fall 24.
- Our next Industry Summit will be held in May and will focus on the radiologic technology discipline.
- This April, we will have our second Student Symposium with the support of the Ms. MacKenzie Scott President’s Initiatives Award. We encourage you to invite and mentor your students to present.
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We designed a website to highlight faculty's scholarly and creative works; please submit your scholarly and creative works to OAA.
- To help faculty master pedagogical practices for integrating Generative AI into the curriculum, our Center for Teaching and Learning offers a variety of professional development opportunities. Please participate.
- To ensure our graduates have the skills to master technology in their disciplines, we formed a working group to design technology competency modules for all students, including how to use Generative AI.
These are just some of the great things we are doing this semester. On behalf of OAA, I want to thank the President and the SVP for their support, as well as all the divisions for their collaboration with OAA. A special thank you to the faculty, Chairs, Deans, and OAA directors and staff for your collective effort, which has enabled Hostos to continue increasing enrollment and improving retention this academic year.
Title V Grant Supports Supplemental Instruction to Improve Retention and Graduation
By Andrea Fabrizio, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and P.I. of Title V
With the support of our Title V grant, on January 21 and 22, the Office of Academic Affairs hosted a two-day professional development event for English and Math faculty and Supplemental Instruction (SI) tutors led by the National Center of Supplemental Instruction at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Nearly 50 faculty and tutors participated in workshops promoting student engagement, effective SI strategies, and assessment strategies. SI is a well-recognized contributor to significant improvements in student retention and graduation. Expanding SI in English and Math is critical to our Title V initiative. It will continue to be implemented under the leadership of Prof. Tram Nguyen in the English Department, Prof. Gisselle Guzmán in the Math Department, and Dr. Silvia Reyes.
Career Services Supports First-Year Orientation
By Laura Hand, Assistant Director, and Lisanette Rosario, Director, Career Services
The Career Services team, including active members of the First Year Experience (FYE) Committee, Career Services Director Lisanette Rosario, and Assistant Director Laura Hand, enjoyed participating in the successful First Year Orientation on Saturday, January 20. At the orientation, the team was delighted to directly engage with over forty (40) new students at the Career Services table. Likewise, Assistant Director Laura Hand enjoyed the opportunity to emcee, taking part in presentations sharing the myriad of resources available to students entering Hostos and introducing key opportunities and speakers, including Hostos President Daisy Cocco de Filippis. The Career Services office appreciated President Cocco de Filippis’s message encouraging students to utilize campus resources and the warm recognition of the student panelists, who highlighted our office as one of the essential resources for success at — and beyond — Hostos. We look forward to continuing to facilitate student success for the incoming class, current students, and alumni throughout the Spring 2024 semester!
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!
Title: NAICA Hiring Hall
Date | Time: Wednesday, February 28 | 2 PM – 6 PM
Location: D-210
Register at this link and visit Career Services by 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: 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.
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STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM) | |
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Submitted by VP La Toro Yates, Ph.D.
A Message from VP Yates
Presented at the All College Meeting on February 7
SDEM just completed the spring 2024 enrollment cycle with some fantastic news! The spring of 2024 marked the third consecutive semester of positive enrollment growth, with one of the top enrollment percentage increases out of all of CUNY. This growth is crucial as Hostos aims to return to pre-COVID-19 enrollment levels of approximately 7,000 students.
Over the past two years, Hostos has worked tirelessly to build a culture of removing barriers for students to apply, register, persist each semester, and graduate. This success was made possible through the collaborative efforts of SDEM, the OAA, Budget and Finance, Advancement, Faculty, and community partners.
Congratulations to SDEM and campus partners on this impressive achievement!
Accomplishments
- Third consecutive semester of surpassing Hostos enrollment targets.
- Third consecutive semester of having one of the top enrollment percentage increases at CUNY.
- 13% increase over spring 2023 in overall enrollment and 10% FTEs.
- 8% increase in degree-seeking students' enrollment over Spring 2023.
- 8% increase in Continuing Student enrollment over Spring 2023.
- 25% increase in new First-time- first-year students over Spring 2023.
- The reported enrollment numbers are from 2/7/24. The Registrar’s Office will report the final enrollment numbers after the 2/14/24 enrollment census.
Preparation for the Fall 2024 Semester
- Enrollment debrief (March)
- Understanding enrollment patterns (i.e., major, modality, full or part-time)
- Impact of late start course offerings
- Advisement of part-time students (push toward full-time)
- Focus on students registered two weeks before the start of the spring semester
- Communication to students:
- Available TAP and Federal Work-study funding
- Pathway courses (take and complete)
- Allied Health students (update of status toward applying to the Nursing program)
The Fall 2024 enrollment cycle has started, and we're already preparing for it. We're committed to improving how we serve our students, so we're using the Spring 2024 enrollment cycle to make necessary improvements. There's still work to be done, but we're ready to roll up our sleeves and get started. ¡Manos a la obra! Thank you.
Health and Wellness
Hostos One Stop Program
During the spring of 2024, the One Stop Program Food Pantry, in partnership with CUNY/NYC Council and B&Y Catering, will distribute fresh produce to Hostos students every Wednesday until May 15 at noon at the Savoy Building first floor. We will be distributing 150 bags of fresh produce. All Hostos students are welcome. No appointment is necessary. First come, first serve.
For additional information, please contact Madeline Cruz at 718-518-4141 or mcruz@hostos.cuny.edu.
CUNY Comprehensive Access to Resources for Essential Services (CARES)
CUNY CARES is a new model for helping CUNY students find the campus and community-based essential services they need for health care, mental health, food, and housing. Colleges participating in the demonstration project include Bronx Community College, Hostos Community College, and Lehman College. Thirty (30) CUNY students (Navigators) will work part-time this semester.
This initiative is committed to continuing collaboration with essential programs on campus, such as the Counseling Center, One Stop Center, and Career Services. Together, we aim to raise awareness about services on and off campus, offering students a comprehensive network of holistic support.
Our dedicated CUNY CARES Advocates and Navigators are eager to connect with more students and faculty. If you are interested in a class presentation or would like to learn more about future job opportunities, please contact us at cares@cuny.edu.
Scholarships
The Jeanette Rankin National Scholar Deadline is February 16
The Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant provides unrestricted non-tuition funding and support to women and nonbinary students nationwide. Recipients are age 35 or older, demonstrate financial need, and are pursuing a technical or vocational education, an associate’s degree, or a first bachelor’s degree at an accredited U.S. institution. For more information, go here.
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.
Questions?
Contact Marina Esquilín, Scholarship Coordinator, at 718-518-4166 or mesquilin@hostos.cuny.edu.
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.
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.
The Transfer Services lab hours are from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday–Friday.
We are located in D-101-A.
Please also consider attending one of our recurring events below. No appointments are necessary.
Transfer Talk Tuesdays/Transfer Workshops
Every Tuesday | Time: 1– 2 PM
Location: C512
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
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
“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”
By Robert Frost
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound’s the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
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ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM) | |
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Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne
SVP’s All College Meeting Remarks
For Academic Affairs
- Faculty lines have been authorized for Academic Affairs.
- Provost has consulted with department chairs regarding the lines to be filled.
- The Adjunct budget was increased to support the increase in course sections.
College Financial Status
- We have reached mid-year in our financials.
- We are currently stable but are awaiting word on the Program to Eliminate the Gap (PEG) cut.
- If the last PEG cut for this fiscal year is not implemented, we will be in better shape for FY2025. That means we will not need to use additional Stimulus funds to carry us through this fiscal year.
- Stimulus funds are one-time funding.
Mayor Adams’ NYC Preliminary Budget for FY2025
- The Preliminary Budget provides $548 million in FY2025 for CUNY community colleges.
- The PEG reduction is $95.4 million.
- The budget may tentatively include the PEG reduction with the PEG to be taken from the budget in one lump sum, but the budget is currently still in negotiations. So the community college budget numbers are still a moving target.
- Hostos and its sister institutions are working on restoring the community college budget. Senior leaders have been busy contacting our elected officials to remind them of CUNY’s critical role in New York City as an engine of social mobility.
Enrollment
We are celebrating our increasing enrollment numbers. We have an approximate headcount of 5,501 as of February 1. That is an accomplishment and is hopefully a continuing upward trend for Hostos.
However, we need to be aware that our College is funded on a Full-time Equivalent (FTE) model. Our current FTE model was frozen at 4,900. Each FTE is valued at $2,997. That is the model we are currently working with. So although our headcount is up, a majority are Part-Time students, meaning that our FTE is a lower number.
If the State were to remove the 100% funding floor and the FTE rate remains at $2,997, we would lose State aid. Fortunately for us, at least for FY2025, Governor Hochul’s Proposed FY2025 Budget Actions include maintaining the Community College Funding Floor. The Executive Budget will maintain a funding floor for community colleges at 100 percent of prior year funding. Without a funding floor, community colleges would face a $143 million (23%) loss in formula aid due to enrollment declines.
FY2024 New York City PEGs are currently at $94.1M
Program to Eliminate the Gap (PEG) is a mandatory city-wide program instituted by the Mayor to eliminate the budget gap.
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Return of the Vaccination Clinic
We are pleased to inform the Hostos community that the vaccination clinic has returned to campus for the spring semester, effective Wednesday, February 7. Hostos teamed with Empass Healthcare, Inc. last November to host a vaccination clinic in the A-building lobby (475 Grand Concourse). For this spring semester, the Empass team is in the lobby on Wednesday and Thursday from 12–5 p.m. to provide flu and COVID vaccinations.
Please bring your Hostos ID (or Empl ID number) and health insurance card if you have one; however, you will not be turned away if you do not have insurance. If you are a student without health insurance, please visit the Health and Wellness Center (Room D–101 in the Savoy Building) to learn how to get this benefit.
Additionally, if you're interested in other vaccinations, let the Empass nurses or Ursula Sanders of the Health and Wellness Center know.
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CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD) | |
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Submitted by VP Evelyn Fernández-Ketcham, Ph.D., LCSW
CEWD Spring 2024 Classes Are Open for Registration Now
CEWD’s Spring 2024 catalog features a variety of occupational training and basic education programs. CEWD’s courses are designed to help students acquire the skills needed to obtain employment and/or pursue higher education. Our occupational training courses provide industry-recognized credentials across various industry sectors, and some of them can help students earn college credit when they enroll in a Hostos degree program. Please click here to browse through our course offerings. Be sure to check back for program updates.
Virtual Information Sessions
Please attend one of our info sessions to learn more about CEWD’s program offerings.
- Saturday, February 17, 11 AM
- Wednesday, February 21, 6 PM
- Wednesday, March 6, 6 PM
- Saturday, March 16, 11 AM
- Wednesday, March 20, 6 PM
Register here.
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INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA) | |
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Submitted by VP Colette Atkins
The Office of Alumni Relations Launches New Alumni Advisory Council
The Office of Alumni Relations is excited to announce its inaugural Alumni Advisory Council Meeting. The first meeting is later today, Friday, 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 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.
The Carroll and Milton Petrie Foundation Pledges $25,000 in Support of the Transfer Peer Mentor Program
The Carroll and Milton Petrie Foundation has pledged an initial $25,965 grant over five months to provide a wage increase, additional training, and event support for the Transfer Peer Mentor Program. This program, launched in 2022, supports peer-to-peer mentorship throughout all aspects of the transfer process. We are so grateful to our partners at the Petrie Foundation for their generous investment in this program.
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Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community
Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture on BronxNet’s “Diálogo Abierto”
Thanks to Diálogo Abierto’s host, Javier Gómez, for coming to campus to learn more about our incredible cultural and community South Bronx staple, the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture. Watch the full episode here.
Our Women’s Basketball Team is Ready to Bring Home Another National Win!
Our women’s basketball team has been featured on Amsterdam News! Thank you to Lois Elfman for this story, which shows we are ready for another championship! Go Caimans! Read the story here.
Hostos Alumna and Bronx Poet Laureate Kay Bell Returns to the College to Inspire!
In celebration of Black History Month, Hostos Community College was honored to host the talk “Black Heroines in Poetry,” delivered by alumna Kay Bell, who is currently serving as the Bronx Poet Laureate for 2023-2025. Watch the inspiring talk here.
One of Our Very Own Basketball Caimans Protects the City!
We are proud of alumnus Tyree White, who is now an NYPD officer. In a recent story by News 12 Brooklyn, White attributes his current skill set, crucial for protecting our city, to his experience as a Hostos basketball player. Thank you for always being a proud Caiman, Officer White! We can’t wait to see what you do next! Watch more about his story here.
Hostos Students Participate in “Dominican Day at the White House”: A Reception in the Nation’s Capital
This is a shout-out to our outstanding students who attended “Dominican Day at the White House," a briefing and reception for Dominican-American stakeholders. This event recognizes the Dominican-American community and their contributions to the United States, highlighting the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to Latino communities. Our students met with elected officials and DC leaders, among others.
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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.
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Please stay tuned for updates!
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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: 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: Bridging Dreams Conference
Date | Time: Friday, February 16 | 9:30 AM
Location: Faculty Dining Room
Description: The Office of Admissions and Recruitment in partnership with College Now presents a transformative conference dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by undocumented and immigrant students. The conference, "Bridging Dreams," brings together high school and community-based organization counselors for a day of insightful sessions, interactive workshops, and collaborative discussions to foster a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. Register here.
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: Publicis Media Information Session
Date | Time: Thursday, February 22 | 12 – 1:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Description: Learn more about Publicis Media’s paid summer internships and Associate roles for graduates interested in art, media, music, and design.
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: 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 SVC Glenda Grace, Esq. of CUNY as they discuss the racial politics of education.
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.
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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. | |
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Past issues can be found here.
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