Friday, February 7, 2025 | Vol. 10, No. 2 | |
MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS | |
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My Dear Hostos Family,
I am happy to share my remarks from our All-College Meeting. I wish you a beautiful semester.
All-College Meeting
February 6, 2025
Welcome Remarks
My Dear Colleagues and Students,
As we gather, once again, as one Hostos family, as I have done at every college meeting since November 6, let me affirm our commitment to respect, diversity, inclusivity and caring for one another. Those from all backgrounds, faiths, and religions are welcome and embraced and included in loving and respectful ways; that is Hostos.
I am asking colleagues and students to connect any student experiencing anxiety asap with IVP Sterling, Dean Gómez and the Counseling Center in order to discuss concerns. I note communications from last week providing multiple points of contact. We have also created posters of the Red Cards, and they are on display at the five lobbies, my office and multiple other locations. Let me assure you all that everything in our power to support our students is being put in place and will be put in place as needs evolve. For those concerned about ICE raids, the College is required only to respond to a Court Order for anyone at the College, administration, faculty, staff and students, documented or undocumented, who has broken the law. Credentials and warrants will be reviewed by either Chief Bernabe or Counsel Sohn. We don’t anticipate “search expeditions” and the College has no lists of undocumented or DACA students.
Let us now rejoice in an afternoon of sharing. It is powerful to gather at the beginning of a semester of significant challenges and achievements. As we prepared to begin this semester we received a powerful acknowledgment of our collective work on behalf of our students in the announcement by the U.S., Department of Education that Hostos Community College, a CUNY school in the South Bronx, is a winner of the inaugural Postsecondary Success Recognition Program (PSRP) award. The College is one of only six institutions chosen from hundreds of eligible colleges throughout the country to receive this recognition. According to Nasser Paydar, Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education, Hostos was selected because its work “is a shining example of the transformative power of higher education, especially for underserved students.”
As always, this academic year we continued to reach out and to keep the college community informed, as we have done since Fall 2020 in the Hostos Weekly/Semanario Hostosiano’s entries about our collective work; work so many of us have shared. Thank you for continuing to work hard to find solutions to challenging situations, from the physical space to teaching effectiveness, successful retention of our students in our classrooms, and academic support strategies, to supporting morale by means of multiple activities outside of the classroom, and by so many activities that maintain a robust intellectual life. This work has been supported as well by those on the ground, our generous maintainers and custodians and Public Safety colleagues. Thank you, mil gracias, does not begin to express the gratitude and the pride I feel.
We celebrate this afternoon the beginning of the second semester of academic year 2024-25, a year that saw us overcome and continue to persevere despite challenges, and the award of a $1,000,000 earmark from our U.S. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand in support of the Hostos Research Center and the Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus initiative, the Lorenzo-Wright $1,000,000 endowed scholarship for STEM students, the Potack $500,000 endowed scholarship for Allied Health and Nursing students, a number of NSF grants, including the HEAT program’s support of $2,000,000. Academic Affairs implemented multiple support activities supported by a $2.5 million Title V grant, and so much more. Given the present political climate, we have begun to experience uncertainty about federal grants. PI’s received a communication from me with details about how we can support moving forward.
Enrollment continued to grow this semester with a more than 5% increase in FTEs, supported by an increase in our retention numbers. Thank you to our Academic Chairs, faculty and colleagues in SDEM for their continued encouragement of early registration, and please continue to create new efforts and strategies. Our retention gains represent a major focus as we build on our innovations in developmental education, Gateway courses, cohort offerings and advisement investments. I observed with gratitude and appreciation at a recent retreat of the Executive Cabinet, how collegiality and collaboration define our team. Mil gracias. As a result of one of many discussions about maximizing support of our students, a joint decision was made to move the Coaching Unit to work directly with Academic Affairs. You will hear more on this from our Provost.
The generous support and diligence of the Hostos Advisory Corps for the MacKenzie Scott Gif President’s Initiatives have brought life to research, transfer programs and multiple activities at Hostos. We celebrate powerful results in engagement and participation in initiatives that go from Families United in Education, Hostos Research Center’s innovations, Workforce initiatives in non-credit to credit opportunities, Educating for Diversity programming, Next-Gen Public Health Scholars and other 2 + 2 +2 transfer opportunities, Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus and Scholarships Now supported last year by a congressional earmark championed by Congressman Richie Torres. Our CEWD area is to be congratulated for the acquisition of significant grants and the growth of their non-credit enrollments and the non-credit to credit strategies in collaboration with Academic Affairs, making progress on their academic planning document. Administration continues to keep us in the black, and supports new initiatives such as the inauguration of a new Women’s Center last December. SGA President Martínez has been outstanding in her support of kindness on campus. Her collaboration on so many activities is commendable. As always, we stay focused, we stay the course on our students’ success and remain vigilant about next budgetary steps.
I know you heard me say this before but it is worth repeating that my particular passion, a passion I share with many colleagues at Hostos, is giving students the opportunity to pursue a liberal arts foundation while also articulating career pathways that lead to jobs and careers that help our students earn a good living.
Academic Affairs has been exemplary in course planning, working hand in hand with Chairs and colleagues in SDEM and Administration in scheduling classes that support the needs of our students and the growth of academic programs. Bravi, and please continue to focus on scheduling that enhances programs’ completion.
A special thank you to all of our colleagues presenting this afternoon, and our kind student leader and College Senate leader. Thank you to the members of the President’s Office, our Cabinet, our students, our faculty and administration colleagues. As always, I close my remarks by reflecting on Pablo Neruda’s Nobel Laureate speech: his understanding of the connection we have with others and the responsibility we have to one another, as we try to move forward as human beings in this life’s journey. Here is a brief excerpt from Neruda’s speech, words some of you have heard me read many times before:
All paths lead to the same goal; to convey to others what we are…
but in this dance or in 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 wish us all a rewarding new semester. I know that Commencement this coming May will find us rejoicing in the rewards of our labors, as we celebrate our wonderful students’ persistence and diligence.
Mil gracias y bendiciones,
Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.
President
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“The Sparrow”
By Paul Laurence Dunbar
A little bird, with plumage brown,
Beside my window flutters down,
A moment chirps its little strain,
Ten taps upon my window–pane,
And chirps again, and hops along,
To call my notice to its song;
But I work on, nor heed its lay,
Till, in neglect, it flies away.
So birds of peace and hope and love
Come fluttering earthward from above,
To settle on life’s window–sills,
And ease our load of earthly ills;
But we, in traffic’s rush and din
Too deep engaged to let them in,
With deadened heart and sense plod on,
Nor know our loss till they are gone.
This poem is in the public domain.
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MESSAGE FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT DAINMA MARTINEZ | |
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We’re Doing It!
Happy Friday, Hostos! Another week is over. As many of us continue onward with the new semester, remember the major thing we all should do: check our school emails! If you are having issues with your email you may go to the Computer Lab in C-595, or IT in B-420. From your emails you are able to keep updated on events, opportunities, and more. The greatest thing that we have on deck now is the Navigate 360 app. It is our new source of announcements and keeping informed of what's happening on campus and what’s up with your progress as a student. So head on over to the app store and download it now!
As we are in times of uncertainty and overall overwhelming feelings, remember that Hostos is here for you. We are here for you. So please do not ever feel the need to stay quiet or stay alone. There is always someone here on campus to assist. For instance, the SGA is a resource for you! If you need more resources or information about everything happening or just simply need someone to speak with, stop by the Counseling Center at C-330. You may email them at infocounseling@hostos.cuny.edu. You may also make an appointment online. For keeping up with more information follow us on Instagram.
Graduation is close! So as always, for those who are graduating, do a check-in with your advisor if you have not done so yet. It is important that you 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 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.
As the days go by, I always like to share a few words of encouragement. Do not lose yourself in the sea of worry. Remember that we are all here to grow, to strive, and to achieve our goals. Keep moving forward. I’d like to close with a motto that I frequently use “We are all trees, and we are meant to grow.” Our branches do not interfere with each other but rather grow around and with one another. Stay strong, support each other, and embrace the journey ahead. Enjoy the weekend and smile with the sun!
Sincerely,
Dainma Martinez
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MS. MACKENZIE SCOTT'S GIFT: PRESIDENT'S INITIATIVES | |
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Submitted by Research Programs Director Sofía Oviedo, Ph.D.
Updates
Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives will be offering many wonderful opportunities for community learning and engagement this semester. The Educating for Diversity Initiative has awarded 12 new grants totaling $15,000 for Spring 2025! A wide array of educational and cultural activities will be supported providing our Hostos community with many opportunities for connection and collaboration. A full announcement is forthcoming with more details on the funded activities. Stay tuned.
The Hostos Research Center’s Call for 2025 ADELANTE Project Proposals is still open and the application deadline has been extended to this coming Monday, February 10, 2025 by 11:59 p.m. 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.
Please click here to access the 2025 ADELANTE Project Call for Proposals.
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INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT (OIERA) | |
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Submitted by AVP of Institutional Effectiveness Babette Audant, Ph.D.
Mid-year Progress on Strategic Goals: Mission-focused Coordination and Capacity-building
The 2024-2025 operational plan, reflective of the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan and our Mission, is focused on advancing employment-related justice for students from their first day with us through graduation. This emphasis reflects our commitment to post-college outcomes and underscores the urgency and context to our unique student success imperative: Hostos students pursue higher education to build better futures for themselves and their families. Falling short in retaining students, supporting timely completion, or offering degrees that lead to living-wage careers means falling short of our mission.
We have identified five institution-wide “umbrella” priorities to help us focus and frame our efforts:
- Enrollment
- Advisement
- A comprehensive First-Year Experience (FYE)
- Career/transfer
- Other enhanced retention supports
These areas — all of which align with goals and strategies of our strategic plan and our six mission focus — serve as the foundation for divisional activities aimed at fostering a more integrated and cohesive experience for all students. Together, this comprehensive strategy acts as our collective “north star,” providing clear direction and alignment for the entire College. The work, then, has involved specific initiatives (i.e. systematic coordination of course/section needs by advisors, faculty and OAA; accelerated processing of Federal Work Study eligibility and employment/placement) and strategies (i.e. expansion of Credit for Prior Learning articulations; professional development for faculty teaching First Year Seminar). It’s also invited creative responses to better serve students (i.e. Transfer Service Office’s satellite hours in the Business Department Office; multi-modal outreach to first year students by First Year peer mentors). While progress is being tracked by quantitative measures, much of this work has been the building of interstitial tissue: systems and processes that result in lasting, if often invisible, institutional change.
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Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know
Submitted by Executive Counsel and Labor Designee Eugene Sohn, Esq.
Multiple Positions Policy
Each full-time faculty member is obligated to view his/her appointment to a college or university faculty position within The City University as his/her major professional commitment. Read more about the Multiple Positions policy here.
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OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS | |
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Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.
New York City Landlords Required to Provide Heat and Hot Water from Now through May 31
This week’s update comes from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) about heat and hot water laws in the cold months.
For HPD (non-NYCHA residents)
By law, New York City has an eight-month-long “heat season” from October 1 to May 31 during which all residential building owners are required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees when outdoor temperatures fall below 55 degrees during the day. Indoor temperatures must also be a minimum of 62 degrees overnight, regardless of outdoor temperatures. Building owners are legally required to provide hot water at 120 degrees year-round.
If an apartment lacks appropriate heat and/or hot water, tenants should first attempt to notify the building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If service is not restored, the tenant should register an official complaint by calling 311 or downloading and using the 311-mobile app. Hearing-impaired tenants can register complaints via a Touch Tone Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 212-504-4115. Be sure to write down and keep your 311-complaint number.
HPD responds to heat and hot water complaints as quickly as possible. Tenants can monitor HPD Online to learn the result of the complaint. If a landlord fails to provide heat entirely, HPD’s Emergency Repair Program or Housing Litigation Division will intervene to seek the restoration of heat. Multiple complaints from a particular building are often the result of one condition in need of repair.
Low-income property owners having trouble maintaining heat in their homes should visit the website of the Home Energy Assistance Program. Eligible households can qualify for assistance paying heating bills or repairing heating equipment.
For NYCHA Residents
NYCHA residents follow a different procedure. Residents experiencing issues with heat or hot water should call the NYCHA Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 or report the issue via the MyNYCHA mobile app or web version. They should also contact NYCHA when:
- The apartment temperature is out of range.
- They have hot pipes and cold radiators.
- A window is not closing properly.
- Steam is leaking into the apartment.
- The building’s front entrance door does not fully close.
View this NYCHA Journal entry for a list of helpful tips to keep apartments warm during the winter season.
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OFFICE OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS | |
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Submitted by Dean Ana I. García Reyes
Study Abroad Program in the Dominican Republic
Applications are open for the Summer 2025 Professional Development and Study Abroad Program in the Dominican Republic. Interested individuals should contact Mr. Gerson Peña at gpena@hostos.cuny.edu for details.
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OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY | |
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Submitted by Chief Diversity Officer, Title IX Coordinator, and 504/ADA Coordinator Philip Oliveri, Esq.
Black History Month
As we embark on the month of February, it is with great significance and respect that we recognize and celebrate Black History Month. This dedicated period allows us to delve deeper into the vibrant tapestry of Black and African-American history, culture and achievements that have shaped our nation and the world. Black History Month stands as a testament to the rich legacy of Black and African-American individuals who have made indelible marks in various fields: from the arts and sciences to politics, sports and social justice. It is an opportunity to not only celebrate achievements but also acknowledge the struggles and challenges faced throughout history and recognize the resilience and strength of the Black and African-American community. By delving into the diverse narratives, experiences and accomplishments of Black and African-American individuals, we enrich our collective knowledge and foster a more inclusive environment. In celebrating Black History Month, we honor the past, acknowledge the present, and actively shape a more inclusive future for all.
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Submitted by Director Ivano Leoncavallo
New Email Signature Layout
Hello Staff and Faculty,
On behalf of the President, I am pleased to share with you a new email signature layout and logo lockup (available here) that features the College's most recent award: The U.S. Department of Education's first-ever Postsecondary Success Recognition Program. Hostos was one of only 6 colleges in the US to receive this distinction. You can read more about it here and here.
The use of this new signature is not mandatory but is highly encouraged. It will not only be a collective expression of pride in our College and its most recent national recognition, but will also help to unify our branding and make it more consistent.
To update your signature in Outlook, please do the following:
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Go here, download the logo and save it in your preferred location (e.g., Desktop or Downloads).
- Open View Settings under the View tab at the top of Outlook.
- Click on "Account"
- Select "Signatures"
- Edit or create your new signature and insert the logo PNG from your desktop or downloads folder to the bottom of your contact info, as below.
- Right click on the PNG and select "Add Alt Text" from the menu that pops up. This is to make it ADA compliant.
- Paste the following text into the box that opens up:
Hostos Community College logo.
Winner of the U.S. Department of Education's first-ever Postsecondary Success Recognition Program.
U.S.D.O.E. P.S.R.P. winner's badge.
At Hostos, our prestige lies in welcoming all students and lifting them up.
Save new signature and select for use in new emails and responses
For detailed instructions on the use of Alt Text, you can watch this video.
Please share this email signature with your teams and encourage them to adopt the new format. And, of course, feel free to reach out with any questions.
Best,
Ivano Leoncavallo
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OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA) | |
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Submitted by Provost and VP Shiang-Kwei Wang, Ph.D.
Welcome Back to the Spring 2025 Semester
Provost Wang’s Office of Academic Affairs invites all faculty and staff to a community gathering on Tuesday, February 11 from 12:30-2 p.m. in B-401, the OAA conference room. We look forward to seeing you there!
Hostos Community College Excellence in Teaching Award 2025
Recently, OAA launched the new Hostos Community College Excellence in Teaching Award which celebrates faculty who embody excellence in teaching through innovative practices, engagement in meaningful learning experiences, and who have a steadfast commitment to educational excellence. In Spring 2024, the inaugural Excellence in Teaching Award recipients were full-time Lecturer Clarence H. Robertson and part-time Adjunct Lecturer Srecko Mavrek. The 2025 award nominations are now open to accept nominations. This year we are focusing on nominations in two categories: student engagement and career readiness. We invite your nominations and look forward to celebrating the exemplary teaching practices at Hostos in 2025. Please use this form to submit the nominations. The submission deadline is 5 p.m. (EST) on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Introduction to Navigate Trainings
The Navigate Training Team is hosting two ‘Introduction to Navigate’ training sessions in February. The trainings are scheduled for Friday, February 21 at 10 a.m. and Friday, February 28 at 10 a.m.. Both training sessions will be virtual and open to all faculty and staff regardless of experience level. The sessions will be the same on both dates. They will include an overview of the tools, showcase the benefits, and help participants sync their Navigate and Outlook calendars. Reserve your spot by completing our reservation form. We look forward to introducing you to Navigate!
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STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM) | |
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Submitted by IVP Althea Sterling, Ed.D.
Children’s Center
The Children’s Center is now enrolling for Spring and Summer 2025! Student-parents can enroll children ages six months to five years, with funding available to help with costs. Faculty and staff may also enroll their children if space permits, with fees on a sliding scale. Secure a spot today! For more information, contact Paulina Martinez at 718-518-4209 or pmartinez@hostos.cuny.edu.
Scholarships
Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant
The Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant, founded on Jeannette Rankin’s dedication to improving the future for American women, offers unrestricted non-tuition funding and support to women and nonbinary students nationwide. Applicants must be 35 or older, demonstrate financial need, and pursue a technical or vocational education, an associate’s degree, or their first bachelor’s degree at an accredited U.S. institution. The grant provides up to $2,500 annually, distributed directly to recipients, and can be renewed for up to five years.
Application closes: February 16, 2025
Application and recommendation letter deadline: February 16, 2025
Applicants notified: July 31, 2025
Please contact the Scholarships Coordinator Marina Esquilin at 718-518-4166 or mesquilin@hostos.cuny.edu for assistance completing the application.
Student Leadership Academy
Join the Hostos Student Leadership Academy!
Applications are now open for students eager to make a positive impact and develop leadership skills.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with workshops starting today, February 7.
The Hostos Student Leadership Academy provides a range of experiences designed to meet the needs of anyone interested in making a positive impact, developing their skills, or exploring what it means to be a leader in today’s world.
The Academy also prepares students to engage with the Hostos Student Government Association, participate in the CUNY Ernesto Malave Leadership Academy, and navigate the process of applying for scholarships, fellowships, senior colleges, and jobs. Additionally, the Academy offers an annual retreat, organizes participation in local and regional conferences across the country, and connects members with renowned speakers through our weekly workshop series.
For more information on how to join the Hostos Student Leadership Academy for Spring 2025, click here.
Programs Offered:
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Hostos Emerging Leaders Program: Open to all students, including CUNY Start, CLIP, Early College, and College Now. Gain leadership skills and volunteer in the community. Apply here.
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Hostos Student Ambassador Program: For students with leadership experience to represent Hostos through volunteer service and leadership projects. Apply here.
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Student Orientation Services (SOS) Team: Volunteer and support campus activities while receiving training. Apply here.
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Hostos Volunteer Corps: Volunteer as your schedule allows, with no GPA or hour requirements. Join here.
If you have volunteered on your own and would like to record your efforts with the college, you may click this link to do so.
For more information, contact Jason Libfeld, Student Leadership Coordinator, at jlibfeld@hostos.cuny.edu or 718-518-6541.
Follow us on social media:
Transfer Services
Join us for Tuesdays Tabling every week from 1-3 p.m. in the A-Atrium! This is a great opportunity to meet with representatives from four-year colleges and universities, learn more about their programs, and ask questions about the application process.
Next Tuesday, we’re excited to welcome representatives from Mercy University, Lehman College and Berkeley College. Whether you’re exploring transfer opportunities, considering different academic programs, or just want to learn more about what these schools have to offer, this is your chance to get all the information you need in one place.
Stop by and find out how these schools can help you take the next step in your academic journey. Don’t miss out — mark your calendars and bring any questions you have!
To schedule a one-on-one appointment for personalized support, fill out our intake form here.
POEMS TO INSPIRE THE COMMUNITY
“The Joy of Forgiveness”
By Susan T. Aparejo
The joy of forgiveness
lightens one’s burden,
It showers happiness,
Showers our heart with
blessedness, so we wake up
in a lighter mood of wellness.
Just try, unload your baggage,
Throw away such garbage,
Let our heart fly and set a voyage,
Feel free to take out such bondage,
And stop our physique from its wreckage.
The joy of forgiveness is the key,
To live on earth peacefully,
And wake up the morning readily,
A fresh air dominates comfortably,
So sweet a conscience of harmony.
I forgive you and you forgive me,
Another flow of peace release,
Another love and acceptance dominate,
Let the trust once again surface,
As we give each other a chance,
We mean forgiveness at hand.
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ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM) | |
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Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne
IT Helps Welcome New Students at FYE Events
The Information Technology Department was pleased to play an integral role in the First Year Experience events held on Saturday, January 18 and Wednesday, January 22. During Saturday’s orientation event, created by the FYE Committee and led by the committee co-chairs, IT staffed a table in the A-Atrium to showcase the various technical support services available to students. IT staff assisted new students in claiming their email addresses and provided guidance on important IT topics.
At the Wednesday event “Ready for the First Day,” led by Sarah Brennan and supported by the Office of Academic Affairs, IT conducted classroom presentations across each of the five sessions held that day, with approximately 25 students attending each session. Before the end of each session, IT ensured that students had access to their emails and systems. The goal at both events was to familiarize new students with the various systems and resources available at Hostos and CUNY, creating an overall smooth onboarding experience with the College’s technology and IT department. The focus included:
- Understanding the services available through Hostos and CUNY accounts.
- Learning how to look up their Hostos email information.
- Accessing and logging into the Hostos Single Sign On (SSO).
- Knowing how to reach IT for technical assistance.
- Providing physical bookmarks with QR codes for quick access IT resources pages.
- Ensuring new student data was preloaded into the college’s ID system to facilitate an efficient and swift ID Card printing process.
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CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD) | |
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Submitted by Evelyn Fernández-Ketcham, Ph.D., LCSW
CEWD Student Spotlight
R., a justice-involved father, knew that earning his General Equivalency Diploma (GED) was the first step toward creating a better future for himself and his family. R. enrolled in the CEWD’s CUNY Fatherhood Academy (CFA). CFA is a free program that provides fathers, ages 18-30, with GED preparation classes, college and career readiness courses, parenting seminars, tutoring, and counseling.
The support and encouragement R. received from instructors and program staff were instrumental in helping him stay focused, even when faced with setbacks. One of the most difficult moments in his journey was missing a scheduled GED test due to restrictions imposed by his probation officer. R. refused to let this temporary setback derail his progress. He persevered, balancing community service, probation, house arrest, and numerous court visits while completing the CFA program.
R. was able to successfully earn his GED in just 16 weeks. Now that he has his GED, R. is setting his sights on the future. He hopes to attend college and is considering pursuing a degree in business.
CEWD Virtual Information Sessions
To learn more about CEWD’s program offerings, please attend one of our upcoming Virtual Information Sessions.
- Saturday, February 22, 11 AM
- Wednesday, March 19, 6 PM
- Saturday, March 15, 11 AM
- Saturday, April 18, 11 AM
- Wednesday, May 5, 6 PM
To register for a session, go here.
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Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community
Make sure to check our website and follow us on social media for all updates: Instagram (@hostoscollege), Facebook (HostosCC), and LinkedIn (CUNY Hostos Community College).
Community Health Program on BronxNet
Jaunia Clarke, Program Manager of the Community Health Worker Apprenticeship Program at Hostos Community College, part of our Continuing Education and Workforce Development division, joined Brittany Skyler on BronxNet to discuss how the program collaborates with employers to provide students with hands-on, real-world experience. Learn more here.
Hostos Community College and CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Recognize Dr. Rafael Lantigua
Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis and other representatives of the College joined the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute last week to honor the work and legacy of Dr. Rafael Lantigua, who has been a steadfast supporter of our mission. Dr. Lantigua will now serve his native country as Ambassador of the Dominican Republic in Italy. We wish him all the best in this fantastic endeavor!
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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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Title: Confronting the Stigma: Film and Mental Health Fair
Date | Time: Saturday, February 8, 2025 | 3 - 8 PM
Location: C-Building (450 Grand Concourse)
Description: Save the date for “Confronting the Stigma,” a film presentation, panel discussion, and wellness resources fair. Presented by Bilal World Entertainment, in partnership with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Tau Chi Sigma Chapter, and sponsored by Hostos Community College.
Title: Morning Performance: Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration
Date | Time: Tuesday, February 11 | 11 AM
Location: Main Theater
Description: Celebrate a spectacular Lunar New Year with Hostos Center and the acclaimed Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company in this special daytime performance perfect for students, faculty, and staff! Get tickets here.
Title: Pride Prom/Valentine’s Day Celebration
Date | Time: Thursday, February 13 | TBD
Location: Hostos Art Gallery
Description: Get ready to light up the dance floor and make unforgettable memories at the Hostos LGBTQIA+ Council Pride Prom! Join us to discover resources to stay safe, healthy, and empowered at the LGBTQIA+ Resource Fair and have the chance to dress to impress, showing off your style and shining on the dance floor! Dinner will be provided. Tunes by DJ Kidd Swag. You must RSVP here.
Title: Afternoon Performance: Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration
Date | Time: Sunday, February 16 | 3 PM
Location: Main Theater
Description: Celebrate the Year of the Snake with the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company at Hostos Center! Experience a vibrant fusion of ancient Chinese traditions and contemporary movement. In 2025, we welcome the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, transformation, and resilience. A family-friendly event for all. Tickets here.
Title: Roots & Rebirth: Dominican Women in Art
Date | Time: Tuesday, February 18 – Wednesday, April 16
Location: Hostos Art Gallery
Description: This new exhibition brings together the work of Dominican women artists deeply connected to their history and traditions, offering a fresh vision and perspective on their culture. Works highlight creative processes, rooted in cultural heritage, while embracing contemporary art practices, reflecting the evolving identity of Dominican women — both on the island and in the diaspora. More information coming soon.
Title: College-Wide Senate Meeting – February 2025
Date | Time: Thursday, February 20 | 3:30 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Title: This is Ecuador!
Date | Time: Saturday, February 22 | 7:30 PM
Location: Hostos Repertory Theater
Description: Join us on a journey through the fascinating evolution of Ecuadorian cultures, from the pre-Hispanic era to the dynamic blend of indigenous, European, and African influences that define the country's unique heritage. Presented in collaboration with the Ecuadorian American Cultural Center. Tickets here.
Title: Dominican Heritage Month Celebration & Panels
Date | Time: Tuesday, February 25 | 9 AM - 5 PM
Location: Hostos Art Gallery
Description: Join the Office of the President and Community Relations for a celebration of Dominican heritage. Experts in humanities, education, culture, business, youth services, and more will come together for panels and roundtables that will shed light on the state of the Dominican community today from different perspectives. Please join us in dialogue as we celebrate the Dominican community and imagine a brighter future for its success. There will be an award ceremony to honor Dominican trailblazers at lunchtime. Breakfast and lunch will be served.
Title: Black @ Hostos: Affirmative Action & Current Climate in Higher Ed
Date | Time: Wednesday, February 26 | 3:30 - 4:30 PM
Location: C-391
Description: Save the date and join President Cocco De Filippis for this important conversation. More details coming soon.
Title: Alumni Book Presentation: La Chihuahua
Date | Time: Thursday, February 27 | 11 AM - 1 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Description: Hostos alumni the Advincola brothers present a book they wrote collaboratively in honor of their mother.
Title: Bachatarengue Dominicano
Date | Time: Friday, February 28 | 7:30 PM
Location: Hostos Repertory Theater
Description: Hostos Center is thrilled to present an evening of Bachata and Merengue to celebrate Dominican Heritage Month. Bachata and merengue are two of the Dominican Republic’s most beloved musical genres. Artists include Monchy Capricho, Richie Cepeda, Leonardo Paniagua, Eddy Eddy and more! More information soon.
Title: Women in Philanthropy Career Exploration Panel and Workshop
Date | Time: Tuesday, March 4 | 3 - 5 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room and Hostos Women’s Center
Description: A panel of nonprofit and philanthropy professionals will discuss how they find purpose, fulfillment, and professional mobility through lesser-seen roles in nonprofit work. Students who are considering a future in nonprofit work are encouraged to attend. Discover careers you might not know about and gain valuable insight from professionals in the field about the skills and proficiencies you’ll need to succeed.
Title: First Year Seminar Liberal Arts Alumni Panel
Date | Time: Thursday, March 13 | 1 - 3 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Description: A panel of Hostos alumni will discuss the opportunities they found through their liberal arts degrees. More details soon.
Title: Black @ Hostos: Black Women Writers as Literary Activists With Dr. Brenda M. Greene
Date | Time: Tuesday, March 18 | 2 - 3 PM
Location: C-391
Description: President Cocco De Filippis will welcome Dr. Brenda Greene, Founder and Executive Director of the Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, who will present the book she edited, “The African Presence and Influence on the Cultures of the Americas.” Join us for a thrilling conversation!
Title: College-Wide Senate Meeting – March 2025
Date | Time: Thursday, March 20 | 3:30 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Title: Transgender Day of Visibility
Date | Time: Monday, March 31 | TBD
Location: A-Atrium
Title: From Hostos to the Bench: Honoring Judge Sarjo Barrow’s Journey
Date | Time: Thursday, April 3 | 11 AM - 1 PM
Location: Longwood Art Gallery
Description: Originally from Gambia, Immigration Judge Sarjo Barrow began his higher education in the U.S. at Hostos Community College. He was appointed in 2024 as an immigration judge by the United States Department of Justice. The Honorable Sarjo Barrow will discuss his journey to this distinguished position.
Title: Book Presentation by Hostos Professor Emeritus Orlando Hernández
Date | Time: Tuesday, April 22 | 3:30 PM
Location: Hostos Research Center
Description: President Cocco De Filippis invites you to this book presentation to commemorate the teachings of our namesake Don Eugenio María de Hostos on the day of our College’s foundation. Books will be raffled and a Q&A will follow after Professor Hernández’s lecture.
Title: Black @ Hostos: Beyond Borders: Future of Immigration in America
Date | Time: Wednesday, April 23 | 2 - 3 PM
Location: C-391
Title: College-Wide Senate Meeting – April 2025
Date | Time: Thursday, April 24 | 3:30 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Title: 2nd Hostos Community College First-Time Homebuyers Conference
Date | Time: Saturday, April 26 | 10 AM - 4 PM
Location: Hostos Cafe
Description: The State of New York Mortgage Agency is coming back to Hostos for another First-time Homebuyers Conference! Come for an informative day packed with resources to help you determine if home-buying is right for you. This event is open to Hostos faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the community.
Title: 3rd Annual Student Symposium
Date | Time: Monday, April 28 | 9 AM - 5 PM
Location: Various
Description: The Office of Academic Affairs invites you to the third iteration of our student symposium. Learn about our students’ work and engage in conversation about the benefits of research in current times. More details coming soon.
Title: 2025 Annual Scholarship Benefit Gala
Date | Time: Thursday, May 1 | 6 PM
Location: Glen Island Harbour Club
Description: Join the Hostos Community College Foundation for this year's Annual Scholarship Benefit Gala at Glen Island Harbor Club on Thursday, May 1, 2025. More details coming soon.
Title: College-Wide Senate Meeting – May 2025
Date | Time: Thursday, May 15 | 3:30 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Title: 2025 Commencement Ceremonies
Date | Time: FIRST CEREMONY on Tuesday, May 27 at 2 PM |
SECOND CEREMONY on Wednesday, May 28 at 11 AM
Location: Main Theater
Description: Let’s celebrate this cherished moment in community with our graduates. More details about acquiring cap and gown, and tickets coming 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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