Friday, March 6, 2026 | Vol. 12, No. 6

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

Dear Colleagues and Students,

We are moving forward in steady and sure ways to improve outcomes for our students. The good news is that retention and enrollment are up this Spring 2026 semester. This is very encouraging as we increase our efforts to retain even higher numbers and to work with and learn from our students about the support they need to continue a journey that is about social justice and bright futures.

This past week we have had meaningful and timely conversations. The Senior Leadership Council participated in a thoughtful discussion of Czeslaw Milosz’ The Captive Mind. We also had the engaged participation of the Hostos family in Chiqui Vicioso’s “Three Decades of Poetry: A Notebook for Students,” as we closed Dominican Heritage Month and began to celebrate Women’s History Month. So much more to look forward to as the month progresses.

I wish you continued joy, hope, and satisfaction in this semester’s journey of teaching and learning, advising and guidance of our deserving students.

Mil gracias y bendiciones,

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

President

POEM

MESSAGE FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT TYLER WOODS

Hello everyone!

I hope you’re all doing well as we move into March. We are starting off the month strong at Hostos as the snow begins to melt away and the campus comes back to life. With midterms approaching sooner than we expect, the SGA encourages all students to stay on top of their schoolwork and remember that we’re here to support you however we can.

The SGA is currently planning a number of co‑sponsored events, including an upcoming celebration in honor of Eid to show support to our Muslim students on campus. As we plan these programs, the SGA wants to embrace all cultures and religious groups at Hostos by creating events that reflect the diversity and richness of our student body.

We’re also gearing up for this semester’s Student Club Fair, which will once again take place over two days. Be sure to join us on March 10, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and March 11, from 2 to 4 p.m., to meet our student organizations, learn how to get involved, and connect with student leaders. Students should definitely look forward to the food options we’ll have available this semester. It’s shaping up to be a highlight!

More updates will be coming soon as additional events and collaborations are finalized. For day‑to‑day announcements, make sure to follow @sgahostos on Instagram.

More soon,

Tyler

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

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



Students Invited to NextGen Public Health Scholars 2+2+2 Information Session

All current Hostos students interested in pursuing a career in public health and epidemiology are invited to attend an upcoming Information Session on Tuesday, March 17 at 3 PM at the Hostos Research Center to learn about the NextGen Public Health Scholars 2+2+2 Program. This transformative scholarship program joins Hostos Community College and Columbia University in providing eligible students with access to full tuition coverage, mentoring, and career development throughout their undergraduate and graduate education. We are now seeking up to two students for the 2026-27 cohort that will begin this fall. At the information session we will be joined by our Columbia University partners who will share details about the application process and what to expect as a Columbia University student. We are inviting students that are currently enrolled at Hostos with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and on track to complete 35 or more credits this academic year to apply for consideration. Students from all majors are welcome to attend. Faculty and staff are also welcome to attend this session to share information with students that are interested in this career path. This is an incredible opportunity for our students to jumpstart a meaningful career.

Hostos Research Center Colloquium Series Returns in Spring 2026

This week the first event of the Hostos Research Center (HRC) Colloquium Series was held with a presentation by ADELANTE grantee, Eric Ritholz, on the 2025 project, Artificial Intelligence Teaching Assistant (AITA): Enhancing Student Learning and Teacher Support. Eric presented an engaging overview of this innovative framework and outlined the key strategies designed to integrate AI as a tool to support teaching and learning practices in an ethical and responsible way. The Colloquium Series continues this month with presentations on deck from the HRC Steering Committee and faculty presenters from the Humanities and Behavioral and Social Sciences departments. All are welcome to attend the upcoming presentations that can be found here.

HRC Upcoming Event

Hostos Research Center Colloquium Series: Second Presentation

Date | Time: March 16, 2026 | 12:30 PM

Location: Hostos Research Center (C-130)

Description: The Hostos community is invited to attend the next event in the Hostos Research Center Colloquium Series that will feature a research presentation by the members of the HRC Steering Committee, Director Sofia Oviedo, Professor Yoel Rodriguez, and Professor Antonios Varelas, who will present their recently published article Building a Culture of Grantsmanship at an Urban Community College via Internal Grant Opportunities.

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

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

CUNY Policy on Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination

The City University of New York (“University” or “CUNY”), located in a historically diverse municipality, is committed to a policy of equal employment and equal access in its educational programs and activities. Diversity, inclusion, and an environment free from discrimination are central to the mission of the University. Read the full policy here.

GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.

Free File Your Income Tax Return

• The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance partners with the Free File Alliance to offer options for federal and New York State income tax returns at no cost for those who qualify.  To find out more information including income eligibility requirements, please visit https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/efile/freefile.htm.

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY

Submitted by Associate Director Stephanie Oliviero



Women’s History Month

As we begin the month of March, we also embrace the celebration of Women’s History Month. It is a time for us to reflect upon and honor the invaluable contributions of women throughout American history. From leaders and activists to educators and artists, women have played a critical and vital role in shaping the fabric of our society. Despite facing adversity and discrimination, women have enriched every aspect of our lives through their achievements, resilience, and determination. This month, let us take the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the exceptional women who paved the way for progress and equality. Let us also acknowledge the ongoing struggle for gender equity and continue to advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Submitted by Dean Ana I. García Reyes

Updates

City & State NY – 50 Over 50 Recognition

City & State NY recently recognized Dean Ana I. García Reyes as a recipient of the Annual 50 Over 50 Award, honoring individuals who have dedicated decades of service to improving New York. This recognition reflects the collective support of family, colleagues, and friends, as well as the broader Hostos community. Appreciation is extended to all who shared congratulatory messages and well wishes.

CUNY Albany Caucus Luncheon

We were overjoyed to participate at the CUNY Albany Caucus Luncheon. President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Governmental Affairs Director Eric Radezky, and Dean Ana Garcia Reyes attended Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez’s CUNY Albany Caucus Luncheon on Saturday, February 14, 2025. The gathering brought together elected and appointed officials, policymakers, External Relations Council members, administrators, and students to highlight CUNY’s accomplishments and priorities. We are proud to be part of the CUNY family.

Hostos Mini-Symposium – Rescheduled to March 10, 2026

Due to inclement weather, the Hostos Mini-Symposium has been rescheduled to March 10, 2026, at the Hostos Research Center (HRC).

The theme, “The Evolving Health, Culture, and Educational Landscape of Dominicans in the USA,” will explore the challenges, achievements, and contributions of Dominicans in New York and across the nation.

Program Schedule

• 8:30–9 AM – Breakfast and Registration
• 9:15 AM–12:15 PM – Panel Discussions (Health, Education, Arts & Culture)
• Closing – Lunch Plenary Presentation

The panels will feature distinguished Hostos alumni and professionals, with Hostos faculty and staff serving as moderators. Students, faculty, staff, and community guests will benefit from the expertise and perspectives shared throughout the day. Funding for this signature program is made possible through the Office of Community Relations and Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives.

For additional information, please contact: 

• Dean Ana Garcia Reyes – agreyes@hostos.cuny.edu 
• Communications Manager Dr. Wilfredo Burgos Matos – WBURGOS-MATOS@hostos.cuny.edu 

Professional Development & Engagement – Higher Education Summit

We thank the City & State NY Higher Education Summit for hosting Dean Garcia Reyes and Health and Wellness Director Fabian Wander at such an important event on February 17, 2026, at the Museum of Jewish History. The summit convened government leaders, industry executives, university leadership, and policymakers to address current challenges, policy developments, emerging opportunities, and the state’s role in strengthening post–K–12 education and addressing student health issues.

Participants included CUNY and SUNY chancellors, elected officials, and other policy leaders. The event provided an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, engage prospective partners, and share Hostos materials.

Summer 2026 Professional Development & Study Abroad – Dominican Republic

Applications remain open for the Summer 2026 Professional Development & Study Abroad Program in the Dominican Republic. For registration or additional information, please contact Mr. Gerson Peña at GPENA@hostos.cuny.edu. 

Community Engagement Appreciation

The Office of Community Relations extends sincere thanks to colleagues, partners, and friends for the many invitations to participate in cultural celebrations, meetings, and community forums throughout February 2026. Congratulations are also extended to the Dominican and Black communities on the occasion of their annual heritage celebrations.

Special thanks are extended to community partners who have welcomed Hostos students as interns in their offices. Career Services Director Lisanette Rosario continues to provide strong follow-up on referrals made by the Office of Community Relations, helping to place students across diverse industries and organizations. Additional updates will be shared soon.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to the Hostos mission.

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

Submitted by Provost and Academic Affairs VP Andrea Fabrizio, Ph.D.

Enhancing STEM Accessibility

By Professor Moise Koffi, Mathematics Department & CSTEP/STEP Co-Director

The NSF-funded research project titled “Academic and Financial Support Perceptions and GPA Variability: Pilot Insights to Inform AMTE’s Vision for STEM Success” was presented by Professors Moise Koffi, Nieves Angulo, and Reginald Dorcely of the Mathematics and Computer Science Department at the 30th Annual American Mathematics Teacher Education (AMTE) Conference, held February 4–7  2026 in Portland, Oregon.

The study considers how personal challenges, financial stress, and institutional resources interact to establish the Mathematics and Computer Science Scholars (MACSS) program model as a prominent framework for student success. Results show that MACSS participants achieve nearly perfect credit completion rates and maintain consistent academic performance relative to their peers. These outcomes underscore the importance of comprehensive financial and academic support in advancing student progress and narrowing achievement gaps. Through prioritizing academic stability alongside typical metrics, the MACSS model delivers a scalable, effective strategy for promoting equity and inclusion in STEM education.

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by VP Althea Sterling, Ed.D.

CUNY EDGE

Job Readiness and Resume Building Workshop

The CUNY EDGE Program is excited to announce our upcoming Job Readiness and Resume Building Workshop, taking place virtually on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 3PM in collaboration with the Career Services Department. This workshop is designed to help students strengthen their resumes, sharpen interview skills, and build confidence when speaking with employers. It’s the perfect opportunity to prepare for the upcoming Career Fair at Hostos Community College on March 25, 2026.

What to Expect:

• Resume review tips and best practices
• Guidance on presenting your skills and experience effectively
• Job readiness strategies to stand out at the Career Fair

Career Closet Resource

CUNY EDGE students planning to attend the Career Fair are encouraged to take advantage of our Career Closet, where you can receive professional attire at no cost. To access this resource, please visit our office in Room A-334 and speak with your CUNY EDGE Advisor for details.

Registration & Zoom Link

CUNY EDGE students should check their Hostos email for the registration link and the Zoom link to join the workshop on March 18th.

We look forward to supporting you as you prepare to make a strong impression at the Career Fair. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to invest in your professional success!

Student Activities: Announcing New Student Organizations

We are excited to introduce six new student organizations to our campus community! These clubs are designed to engage, inspire, and support our diverse student body.

The new organizations are:

• ASAP Club: To create a supportive and inclusive community for ASAP students while welcoming the broader Hostos community.
• Calm and Connect Club: To promote wellness, peer connection, and support on campus through initiatives led by intern counselors.
• Computed Tomography Club: To inspire students to explore the X-ray program and educate them about the diverse imaging modalities within the field.
• Hostos AI Club: To expand student access to artificial intelligence education with a strong emphasis on responsible, ethical, and accountable AI practices.
• Hostos Women’s Club: Empower Her: To raise awareness of gender issues, provide essential resources, and create lasting connections that foster advocacy, leadership, and personal growth.
• Rad Fitness Club: To promote mobility drills and healthcare education, preparing future radiologic technologists for success in the field.

We look forward to seeing the impactful events and initiatives these organizations will bring to our campus.

Stay tuned for upcoming events from these fantastic new organizations!

Financial Aid

February was Financial Aid Awareness Month, a time to recognize the essential role financial aid plays in helping students begin, persist, and complete their academic journeys. Navigating federal regulations, state policies, and institutional requirements can feel like learning a new language, and financial aid administrators across the country work every day to translate that complexity into clear guidance for students and families. Few things bring us more joy than seeing a student enroll, return, or walk across the graduation stage because financial aid made it possible.

Financial Aid Awareness Highlight: CUNY Hostos Community College

The Office of Financial Aid will share important financial aid tips throughout the month of March. Please visit our social media pages for updates.

So, what do Financial Aid Administrators actually do? Quite a lot. For students and families, we:

• Explain what types of aid exist, who qualifies, how aid is distributed fairly, and what students must do to renew it
• Help students complete applications accurately and verify eligibility
• Provide personalized support through financial literacy, debt management guidance, and assistance with unusual circumstances that may affect academic progress
• Advocate for simpler, more accessible financial aid processes and policies that promote student success

Our highlight for March: The 2026-2027 FAFSA is open. If you would like to complete your FAFSA, please visit our office. Our Financial Aid Applications Lab is located at 120 East 149th Street (Walton Ave) DB112, Bronx, NY 10451. ​

Financial Aid Applications Lab Hours (Financial Aid Applications Assistance) ​

​Monday - Wednesday: 10 AM to 3:45 PM

Thursday: 10 AM to 5:45 PM

Friday: 11 AM to 3:45 PM

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne

Early Reminder: FY 25-26 Purchase Requisition Planning

As we move midway through the fiscal year 2026, the Office of Administration & Finance would like to provide an early reminder regarding Non-Marketplace Purchase Requisitions in CUNYBuy.

While the official submission deadline will be announced soon, please note that the cutoff for fully approved and valid budget-checked Non-Marketplace requisitions typically falls in early to mid-April. We strongly encourage departments to begin reviewing anticipated purchasing needs now to avoid last-minute submissions.

Please keep in mind:

• All goods and services must be delivered or rendered by June 30, 2026 in order to be charged to the FY2026 budget.
• Before submitting requisitions, confirm with suppliers that delivery can be completed on time.
• Goods and services received after June 30, 2026 cannot be charged to the FY2025-2026 budget in accordance with City of New York and CUNY procurement regulations.
• Equipment, furniture, or other items that cannot be delivered by June 30 will be processed in FY 2026-2027.
• Departments must submit Receiving Reports promptly once items are received to ensure timely vendor payment.
• All invoices should be forwarded immediately to Accounts Payable for processing.

Timely planning and submission of requisitions will help ensure purchases are properly charged, goods/services with longer lead times (approximately six to eight weeks) are received on time, and the Office of Procurement can complete the fiscal year efficiently.

The official deadline will be communicated shortly. In the meantime, we encourage all departments to begin planning accordingly.

For questions, please contact:

• Procurement: Margo Jerimie (Ext. 7967 | mjerimie@hostos.cuny.edu) 
• Budget: Fanny Dumancela (Ext. 4434 | fdumancela@hostos.cuny.edu) 
• Accounts Payable: Bernard Sanders (Ext. 6670 | bsanders@hostos.cuny.edu) 

Thank you for your continued cooperation and attention as we approach fiscal year-end.

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

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

Proud to Have Participated in Dominicans on the Hill! 

On February 11, 2026, Ten (10) CEWD Community Health Workers (CHW) joined Hostos staff and traveled to Washington DC to participate in the Dominicans on the Hill all day conference. In addition to networking, students attended panels on equity in healthcare, Medicaid, Medicare, and other services, community health, and reproductive health.

Here is what some students had to say: 

“Dominicans on the Hill was such an amazing experience. I was able to attend last year, and this year they absolutely went above and beyond. I absolutely appreciate Hostos’ allowing me to participate as a CEWD student and would love to go on more adventures in the future.” – Nichelle Hemphill 

“I had a great time attending the Dominicans on the Hill event. I got to see the Capital and see some insightful people speak. Got to location and back with no troubles. People who hosted the event were nice and made sure we were good.” – Steven Pena 

“Thank you so much for the opportunity to attend the Dominicans on the Hill event. I truly appreciate being included. As a Community Health Worker, it was a very enriching and inspiring experience for me. It was powerful to see how many organizations and leaders are genuinely committed to supporting and advocating for our community. I also want to highlight how amazing the Hostos team that accompanied us on the trip was. They genuinely cared about us, were attentive throughout the entire experience, and made the trip not only meaningful but also very enjoyable. Their support truly made a difference. I would be very grateful to be considered for any future events, as experiences like this are both professionally and personally meaningful to me.” – Michelle Rivera 

“The Dominicans on the Hill event was a great experience. I learned a lot about advocacy and the Hispanic community engagement to create a healthier, more knowledgeable, and prosperous community. It was an inspiring, thought-provoking, and overall amazing opportunity. I got to know some services available for all community members, but also got to hear experiences, future developments, and perspectives on many issues. Very grateful to have been able to be there!” – Elena Jimenez 

“Dominicans on the Hill last week was an amazing experience. I had a great time, met some really wonderful people, and loved being around others who share the same mindset and values. The networking alone made it worth it, but what really stuck with me was how inspired I felt walking away. It reminded me of why I work so hard, this opportunity pushed me to be a better Dominican. I am incredibly proud of my people and the country I come from, and being in that environment reinforced that in the best way.” – Bryan Pemberton 

Latin Music and Latin Jazz Seminar Still Going!

The seminar is a no-cost initiative and hosted by music historian and author Joe Conzo Sr. and explores the history of Latin music and Latin jazz from the 1930s to the present, highlighting influential artists such as Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Gloria Estefan, and others. 

When: Saturdays, 11 AM - 1 PM 

Dates: March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026 

Where: Online via Zoom. Go here.

View the CEWD Spring 2026 Catalog 

Go here for the catalog.

CEWD Virtual Information Sessions

March  

Wednesday, March 11, 12:30 PM (Virtual)  

Saturday, March 14, 11 AM (Virtual)  

May  

Wednesday, May 6, 6 PM (In-Person)  

Saturday, May 9, 11 AM (Virtual)  

Wednesday, May 20, 12:30 PM (Virtual)  

June  

Wednesday, June 3, 6 PM (In-Person)  

Saturday, June 6, 11 AM (Virtual)  

Wednesday, June 17, 12:30 PM (Virtual)  

To register for a session, go here.   

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA)

Submitted by VP Julie Gafney, Ph.D.

Launching: Opportunity of the Week

To keep the Hostos community informed of available funding opportunities, the Division of Institutional Advancement will be using El Semanario to share weekly updates on relevant requests for proposals (RFPs) from foundations and organizations whose giving areas align with the College’s mission. If you believe you have a program that fits the description, contact Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager Kelsey Hillebrand at khillebrand@hostos.cuny.edu. Research grants, indicated in bold*, must pursue funding through the Research Foundation of CUNY (RF CUNY). This is not intended to be an exhaustive list, so please continue to search Pivot and GrantForward for additional opportunities related to your specific domains.



Area: Library and Archival Sciences (Research and non-research program options)

Deadline: March 13

Funding: $75,000-$1,000,000 (depending on project type)

More information: Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program | Institute of Museum and Library Services

Area: Arts Research*

Deadline: March 26

Funding: $20,000-$300,000 (depending on project type)

More information: RESEARCH AWARDS | National Endowment for the Arts

BRAVO NEWS

Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop on all things Hostos!

Hostos Black History Month Book Event Highlights the Pursuit of Freedom Beyond Slavery

Hostos Community College marked Black History Month with a virtual book presentation and conversation with English Associate Professor Sean Gerrity on Thursday, February 26. Read more here.

HOSTOS FOR EVERYONE

Free Services for the Community 

Hostos Offers Free Preventive Dental Hygiene Services to the Public

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

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

The appointment schedule is as follows:

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

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

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

Location: Hostos Dental Hygiene Patient Care Facility

500 Grand Concourse, Bronx NY 10451

B-Building 

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

EVENTS

Title: Dominican Heritage Month Mini-Symposium

Date | Time: Tuesday, March 10 | 8:30 AM - 1 PM

Location: Hostos Research Center

Description: You are invited to a mini-symposium commemorating Dominican Heritage Month. Themed “The Evolving Health, Culture and Educational Landscape of Dominicans in the USA," the event is designed to examine and amplify the challenges, achievements, and contributions of Dominicans in New York and across the nation. The program will feature three panels in the areas of Education, Health, and Arts & Culture, with participation from Hostos alumni and other distinguished professionals. Students, faculty, staff, and community guests will benefit from the expertise and perspectives shared throughout the day. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. RSVP here.

Title: Layer the Walls Two: A Grand Pistachio Production

Date | Time: Sunday, March 15 | 2 PM

Location: Hostos Main Theater

Description: What if an old Lower East Side apartment, covered with 40 layers of wallpaper, revealed the lives of those who came before? Using puppetry, masks, and live performance, Layer the Walls Part Two peels back three intertwined stories of Jewish, Chinese, and Puerto Rican migrants who helped shape the America we know today. Get tickets.

Title: Hostos Women’s Empowerment Brunch

Date | Time: Tuesday, March 17 | 1:00 PM (doors open at 12:45)

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: Join us for an inspiring gathering featuring leaders in business, healthcare, and more. The event will be moderated by CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez and feature keynote remarks from Thasunda Brown Duckett, President and CEO of TIAA. Ms. Brown Duckett is one of only two Black women who lead Fortune 500 companies.

Title: “Elinor Glyn and the Invention of Modern Romance”: A Book Discussion with Columbia Professor Hilary A. Hallett

Date | Time: Monday, March 23 | 12:30 - 2 PM

Location: C-466

Description: Join Prof. Christine Choi (English) and Prof. Marcella Bencivenni (History) for a special Women’s History Month event featuring a book presentation by Dr. Hilary Hallett, professor of history at Columbia University. Published by Norton- Liveright in 2022, Inventing the 'It Girl' How Elinor Glyn Created the Modern Romance and Conquered Early Hollywood traces Glyn’s meteoric rise from a depressed British society darling to a renowned celebrity author who founded the modern 'sex novel' and taught early Hollywood how to depict heterosexual passion on screen.

Title: Heightened Scrutiny: Transgender Rights in a Shifting Landscape

Date | Time: Monday, March 23 | 3 - 6 PM

Location: Hostos Research Center

Description: How are our civil rights created and protected? How easily can they be taken away? Follow ACLU attorney Chase Strangio as he argues to protect trans youth at the Supreme Court in the documentary Heightened Scrutiny, with a Q&A with director Sam Feder. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the battle for transgender rights, the legal system, and making documentary films. Light refreshments will be offered. The Hostos LGBTQIA+ Council thanks the Hostos Research Center and the Ms. Mackenzie Scott Educating for Diversity Grant.

Title: Shirly Chisholm: Unbossed and Unbowed

Date | Time: Tuesday, March 31 | 2 PM and 7 PM

Location: Hostos Repertory Theater

Description: “Unbossed and Unbowed” is an immersive and interactive solo show about the first African-American woman to run for the Presidency of the U.S. In the 1960s and ’70s, this Brooklyn-born daughter of Caribbean parents was on a mission. They called her the Black Joan of Arc. She called herself Fighting Shirley as she faced off against the political machine in the name of justice. “Unbossed and Unbowed” hopes to inspire the disenfranchised and to connect to those who benefit from the status quo, helping them to examine the flaws in our system and reconsider what’s best for humankind. Get tickets.

Title: Spring 2026 Peace & Poetry

Date | Time: Wednesday, April 22 | 12 PM

Location: B-501

Description: We are now accepting submissions for the Spring 2026 Peace & Poetry Event until March 31! Join us during April National Poetry Month, to share and read your original poem, or one by a poet that you enjoy, that elevates peace and community-building. This event falls on the anniversary of Hostos Community College’s founding! Your shared submission can also be an opportunity to express and share about your experience at Hostos through poetry! Another inspiration may be nature, our planet or our environment as the 22nd is also Earth Day. Submit your poems here.

Title: Wall of Champions 2026 Ceremony

Date | Time: Thursday, April 23 | 2 - 6 PM

Location: A-Atrium

Description: Join President Cocco De Filippis at the unveiling of new names on the A-Atrium’s Wall of Champions. Get to know more about the heroes that have made our mission possible throughout the decades.

Title: 4th Annual Student Symposium

Date | Time: Tuesday, April 28 | 9 AM - 5 PM

Location: Various Locations 

Description: Applications to present are due March 16, 2026. Students and mentors may submit proposals here.This event brings together examples of undergraduate research in STEM; essays, poems, and short stories; visual arts; performing arts; capstone assignments; honors projects; field work; and more. 

Title: Hostos Community College Foundation Annual Scholarship Benefit

Date | Time: Thursday, April 30 | 6 PM

Location: The Surf Club on the Sound

Description: The 2026 Scholarship Benefit will bring our community together to celebrate student achievement, recognize outstanding leaders, and raise funds for scholarships that inspire persistence. Join us as we honor Hostos’ legacy of opportunity and champion the future of our students. More info coming soon.

Title: Arts Industry Summit

Date | Time: Thursday, May 7 | 9 AM - 12 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: President Cocco De Filippis and Community Advisory Council Chair Elías Alcántara, along with the Office of Academic Affairs and community industry leaders, are proud to host another wonderful industry summit that will connect our students with the job opportunities they deserve and explore how to improve the curriculum to better prepare them. More info coming soon.

Title: Honors Convocation

Date | Time: Wednesday, May 20 | 6 PM

Location: Main Theater

Description: Join President Cocco De Filippis and the Office of Academic Affairs as our 2026 graduates receive their well-deserved academic honors and scholarships.

Title: 2026 Commencement Ceremonies

Date | Time: Wednesday, May 27 at 2 PM & Thursday, May 28 at 11 AM

Location: Main Theater

Description: Let’s celebrate one of the most cherished milestones of our College! More information is coming soon.

Title: Hostos Alumni Homecoming 2026

Date | Time: Saturday, September 26 | TBD

Location: Hostos Community College

Description: The Office of Alumni Relations is pleased to revive the beloved Hostos Homecoming tradition. Please mark your calendar for Saturday, September 26. The full-day event will feature a range of activities—from family fun to professional development and networking opportunities. Details will be announced in the coming weeks, but you won’t want to miss out. Tickets will be available soon, and the early-bird suggested donation for general admission will start at $25 through June 30. After June 30, the price will increase to $50. Register here.

ABOUT EL SEMANARIO HOSTOSIANO / THE HOSTOS WEEKLY

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

Past issues can be found here.