Friday, May 15, 2026 | Vol. 12, No. 14

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

My Dear Colleagues and Students,

As you read the last Semanario of Academic Year 2025-26, I am happy to wish you a very successful end of the semester, celebrations for commencement, and a restful yet productive summer break.  Please see the following remarks, which I delivered at our last All-College of the year:

All-College Meeting

May 12, 2026

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, 2024, 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 refer any student experiencing anxiety and to connect with VP Sterling, Dean Gómez, and the Counseling Center as soon as possible to discuss concerns.  Let me assure all that everything within our power to support our students is being put in place and will be as needs evolve. 

Let us now come together in a morning of sharing. It is powerful to gather at the end of each semester to celebrate our work as one Hostos family in light of significant challenges and achievements, discuss our Operational plan, and begin thinking about the work to be undertaken next year.  

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 and 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 to keep a robust intellectual life. This work has also been supported 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 the end of the second semester of the 2025-26 Academic Year. This year saw us overcome challenges and continue to persevere, and move forward with plans to support Allied Health, Nursing, and Natural Sciences through the assignment by CUNY of space at the old Post Office at 558 Grand Concourse.  Our faculty and staff have worked hand in hand with the Madruga team on planning the space, and renovations are expected to begin by the end of the spring 2026 semester. 

Enrollment continued to grow this semester, with FTEs estimated to increase by 5%, supported by higher retention. Thank you to our Academic Chairs, faculty and colleagues in SDEM for your 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. 

The generous support and diligence of the Hostos Advisory Corps for Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: 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 in Diversity programming, Next-Gen Public Health Scholars and other 2 + 2 +2 transfer opportunities, Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus. Our CEWD area is to be congratulated for securing significant grants, growing non-credit enrollments, and advancing non-credit-to-credit strategies in collaboration with Academic Affairs, while making progress on their academic planning document. Administration continues to keep us in the black and supporting new initiatives. VP of Institutional Advancement Julie Gafney joined us on February 17 and held her first and very successful gala on April 30. SGA has been outstanding in its support of kindness on campus. Their collaboration across so many activities is commendable, and some of them are also great fun! Consider having taken a Tai Chi lesson, for instance. 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. Still, 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 to schedule classes that support our students' needs and the growth of academic programs. Bravi, and please continue to focus on scheduling that enhances programs’ completion. Congratulations to the Math Department on the Cybersecurity Program and to the Education Department on their very collegial and powerful collaborations that have resulted in the passing through committees of a new Health Science major.

A special thank you to all of our colleagues presenting this morning, as well as our kind student leader and College Senate leader. This morning, we celebrate together the founding of Hostos, our 58th anniversary, with a cake. We also recognize colleagues who have gone above and beyond with a “Manos a la Obra” award.  Thank you to the members of the President’s Office, our Cabinet, our students, our faculty, and our administration colleagues. As always, I close my remarks by reflecting on Pablo Neruda’s Nobel Laureate speech: his understanding of our connection with others and our responsibility to one another as we try to move forward as human beings on 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 end of the semester. I know that our upcoming Commencement Ceremonies 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

POEM

A MESSAGE FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT TYLER WOODS

Remarks from All College Meeting

Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you all for coming to this All-College Meeting. As we near the end of the semester, aside from the College-Wide Senate, this is one of our final opportunities to come together as a community.

I want to recognize all the faculty and staff for the incredible work you’ve done this semester and for continuing to uplift and support our students through the many challenges they face every day, whether that’s balancing school with parenting, work on campus, or responsibilities outside of campus.

I also want to give a special shoutout to our on-campus student workers, including the team from the Writing Center. They do amazing work helping students succeed, especially by tutoring and supporting them with their writing and papers. Their efforts make a real difference in helping students achieve their goals and leave here with experiences they’ll remember for a lifetime.

For me personally, this has also been a challenging semester, but we’re finally approaching the finish line. Many of us here are preparing to graduate, and when we walk across that stage, we’ll think about all the people who supported us throughout this journey. It’s going to be a proud moment for all of us.

That’s all from me. Thank you again to everyone for coming out today.

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

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

2026 Spring Semester Closing Update

Dear Students and Colleagues,

I want to thank all the students, faculty, and staff who attended the Hostos Fourth Annual Multi-Faith Symposium this week, as well as those who attended recent events hosted by the Hostos Research Center (HRC). I am so delighted that over the course of this semester and academic year, Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives has provided our campus with many opportunities for learning and community-building, and for recognizing the accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff. It has been an engaging and dynamic spring semester at the HRC, with the continuation of the Colloquium Series and the culminating HRC Scholars Mini Conference, which showcased research developed by our cohort of 14 students with support from faculty and CUNY Graduate Center mentors. Special thanks to President Daisy Cocco De Filippis and the members of the Hostos Advisory Corps for their guidance and leadership, and all the students, faculty, and staff who have participated in and supported the President’s Initiatives.

Wishing everyone much success with final exams and congratulations to all students graduating from Hostos this year! I look forward to celebrating your achievements at commencement.

Sincerely,

Sofia Oviedo, Ph.D.

Call for Proposals for 2026 IDEAS Project Development Awards

The Hostos Research Center (HRC) and Committee on Sponsored Programs and Grants (CSPG) have just issued a new Call for Proposals for the 2026 IDEAS Project Development Awards (Innovating, Developing, and Executing Actions with Success). Faculty and staff are invited to submit proposals addressing institutional needs and/or current research questions with the potential to be translated into a full-fledged project eligible for external funding. Each HRC-CSPG – IDEAS Project will receive $1,000 or $2,000 as a summer stipend/start-up funding to develop a grant proposal for submission to an external funding opportunity.

Click here to access the IDEAS Project Development Awards Call for Proposals.

Application deadline is June 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT

Submitted by AVP Babette Audant, Ph.D.

Closing the Semester with Possible Stories

The Industry Summit on Liberal Arts and Business took place on May 7th, focused on careers in studio art, publishing, and poetry. (It was a Part II to the Industry Summit convened in November 2025 that also focused on the convergence of art and business, specifically on careers in digital design and animation.) The room was full, with significantly more students in attendance than at previous Summits. Most notably, they stayed, listened, and asked questions. The panelists earned the students' attention and invited them to honor their dreams and ambitions as artists, builders, and communicators. 

Previous Summits have convened students, faculty and industry representatives in fields including Nursing, Community Health, Cybersecurity and Education. The alignment of academic and career paths is generally very clear, with growth opportunities often linked to advanced credentialing. Not so with this Summit, where panelists, including faculty, alumni, staff, and professionals working in industry, discussed their often diverse, multifaceted academic and career paths. 

This was a Summit about possible stories. The message was about the viability of careers in creative fields. Over and again, panelists spoke about their drive to do creative work - painting, acting, writing, music, often working across genres and media. They also illustrated that creativity drove their work as well as their strategic navigation of education, job opportunities, networking, mentorship, and self-promotion. Threaded throughout were commitments to storytelling as connection and as a way of owning your way (echoes of Julia De Burgos, “I am my own path/Yo mismo fui mi ruta”). This is not an anarchic approach, rather a deeply considered dedication to taking chances, knowing when to stop, recognizing when mentors stop being mentors because they no longer see your multiplicities (Dr. Wilfredo Burgos-Matos), and building a community of people who will say yes (Denessa Usher). 

The importance of storytelling, of building and sharing narratives that compel and sustain, was highlighted several times as a professional skill and as individual commitments. It was also a return to a theme explored and celebrated as several campus-wide events over the two weeks preceding the Summit - the Student Symposium, Peace & Poetry, the LLAC Student Conference - at which poetry and other creative works, as well as original research, were shared. The keynote speaker at the LLAC event (Centro’s Directora Dr. Yomaira Figueroa-Vasquez) talked about the importance of returning to the archive, of unburying stories that are inconvenient and challenge accepted truths and making those stories public in collaboration with community members. 

At a time when our stories are literally being wiped clean, stolen from underneath our feet, this is the time to tell our stories, narrate our histories, share them broadly, produce (visual, textual, digital) archives of the present of the places we live and the futures we imagine. Creative work resists what is easily seen, or heard, or imagined. It is the work of bringing into view what is possible and of making space for new ideas. Creative work is a career path, one that institutions of higher education like Hostos support by offering intellectual content, the space for exploration and inquiry, opportunities for ongoing skills development, and the invitation to risk, to dare. 

Hostos was founded by Puerto Rican and Black activists and their allies who refused the narratives they were expected to swallow. They insisted that the South Bronx would be the site of a new community college, creating access to higher education for those denied socio-economic mobility, educational opportunities, and professional opportunities. They imagined another possible story. We honor their legacy by demonstrating to students that they, too, succeed when they dream. 

Endnote: When assessing institutional effectiveness, we sometimes present data with a bit of scaffolding to guide understanding of what the numbers show. Other times, institutional effectiveness engages in storytelling to bring to the fore the work our students, faculty, staff, and community members do at Hostos. Wishing all a very good end of the spring semester and a glorious summer.

You can read a full recap of the Industry Summit here.

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

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



CUNY Drug and Alcohol Policy

The City University of New York ("CUNY") is an institution committed to promoting the physical, intellectual, and social development of all individuals. As such, CUNY seeks to prevent the abuse of drugs and alcohol, which can adversely impact performance and threaten the health and safety of students, employees, their families, and the general public. Read the complete drug and alcohol policy here.

GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.

This June: Primary Day and Early Voting in NYC Elections

June 23 is primary day in New York City and will feature candidates running for Governor of New York, State Senate and State Assembly seats, and New York members of the House of Representatives.  There will also be early voting from June 13 to June 21. 

To find your poll site, please visit the Board of Elections website and use the look up tool on the home page.  Please note that your early voting site and your primary day poll site might be different.  Other useful tools on the Board of Elections site include a way to check if you are registered to vote, the application to register if you are not, and an FAQ page about elections and voter registration in New York City. 

First-time voters can still register to vote in the primary until June 13th.  You may only vote in the party primary of the party you are registered in.  It is, unfortunately, too late for anyone already registered to change their party registration in time for the primary; the deadline passed in February.

Exercise your right to vote on primary day or in early voting!

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY

Submitted by Associate Director Stephanie Oliviero



Celebrating Diversity in June!

In a few weeks, we will be entering June, and I extend warm greetings to each and every member of our vibrant community. June marks two critically important events to our community: Pride Month and Juneteenth. At Hostos, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where diversity is not only celebrated but also cherished. We recognize that each individual brings a unique perspective and story to our community, and it is this diversity that enriches our campus culture and enhances our collective experience.  Together, we can continue to build a more inclusive and equitable environment for all, particularly when we collectively recognize commemorative events that celebrate our diversity.   

Pride Month is a time when we come together to honor and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, its rich history, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and acceptance. As we celebrate Pride Month, let us also reaffirm our commitment to creating a campus where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected for who they are. Additionally, Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, holds profound significance in American history as a day of reflection, remembrance, and celebration of freedom. Juneteenth marks the realization of the promise of freedom for all enslaved people in the United States, a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.    

At Hostos, we recognize the importance of honoring Pride Month and Juneteenth as a reminder of the resilience, strength and perseverance of the LGBTQIA+ and Black communities, respectively. We reflect on the progress we have made in the fight for equality, while also acknowledging the work that still lies ahead to dismantle systemic injustices and create a more equitable society. Together, let’s make this June a time of reflection and growth as we honor the diverse communities that bind us as one.  

COMMENCEMENT UPDATES

Submitted by 2026 Commencement Committee

Important Announcement

Spring has arrived with its warmth, sunshine and promise of renewal. And every day brings us closer to commencement, when our students will take some of the most significant steps in their lives as they walk across the stage to receive their diplomas. In that spirit, President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D. is delighted to share the following important update about the upcoming ceremonies at which the College community will turn out to celebrate the achievements of our wonderful Hostos students.

The dates of the two Commencement Ceremonies have been rescheduled for June 2 and 3, both at 11 a.m. in the Main Theater.

The following is a breakdown of which programs will be celebrated on each day:

Tuesday Ceremony - June 2

• Chemical Engineering Science
• Civil Engineering Science
• Computer Science
• Dental Hygiene
• Electrical Engineering Science
• Mathematics
• Mechanical Engineering Science
• Accounting (AAS and AS)
• Accounting for Forensic Accounting
• Aging and Health Studies 
• Community Health6
• Early Childhood Education
• Food Studies
• Game Design
• Licensed Practical Nursing
• Nursing
• Public Interest Paralegal Studies
• Public Policy and Administration
• Radiologic Technology
• Science (AS)
• CUNY Unlimited

Wednesday Ceremony - June 3

• Liberal Arts (AA)
• Criminal Justice 
• Digital Design and Animation 
• Digital Music
• Office Technology
• Business Management

The total number of students expected to graduate this Spring is approximately 850, and we are extremely proud of every single one of them!

Special kudos go out to our Valedictorian and Salutatorian, who have distinguished themselves by maintaining the highest GPAs in their class. 

Valedictorian: Lusdeliza Paulino Reyes

Salutatorian: Luna Luna Martínez

This year’s Commencement Speaker will be Benny Lorenzo, Managing Partner of Aspira Capital Management, who sits on our Foundation Board.

An Honorary Degree will be bestowed upon Dr. Amarilis Jacobo, DDS, also a Foundation Board member, who will receive an Associate of Humane Letters Degree.

In addition, 10 members of the College community will be awarded the President’s Medal:

Student  

• Lusdeliza Paulino Reyes | Valedictorian 

Alumnus :  

• Victor D. Santana | IT Assistant 

Community Member  

• Benny Lorenzo | Foundation Board member 

Faculty 

• Professor Anna Ivanova | Natural Sciences Department 
• Professor Inmaculada Lara-Bonilla | Humanities Department 
• Professor Antonios Varelas | Behavioral and Social Sciences Department 

Staff   

• Jason Libfeld | Student Leadership Coordinator  
• Brenda Linen-Paulin | CUNY Administrative Assistant 

Administrator: 

• Evelyn Fernandez-Ketcham | VP of CEWD

We look forward to joining you, your families, and friends in a joyful celebration of the academic achievements of our students, and recognizing the contributions of so many who have made these achievements possible.

Are you graduating in Spring 2026? Take the CUNY Cap & Gown Survey!

The CUNY Cap & Gown Spring Graduation Survey is now open and is an important step in your Graduation Checklist.

This survey gives graduating students the opportunity to share their valuable experiences and other areas important to student success. Your feedback will inform decision-making throughout the university. All responses are voluntary and held in strict confidence.

How to access the CUNY Cap and Gown Survey:

• Log into CUNYfirst
• select STUDENT CENTER
• select TASKS and HOLDs
• select GRADUATION SURVEY
• select “CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE SURVEY”
• On the last page, click “Submit”
• *You’ll know it is complete when it no longer appears on your graduation checklist
• CUNY Cap and Gown Graduation Survey Instructions

Note: Students will have access to the survey once their CUNYfirst degree checkout status is reflected as any of the below:

• In Review
• Pending
• Awarded

COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Submitted by Dean Ana I. García Reyes

We Appreciate Our National and International Partners

We were delighted to join CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost Alicia Alvero, CUNY college presidents, faculty, and staff at the Sponsored Projects Awards Celebration held on April 23, 2026, at the CUNY Graduate Center. The event celebrated over 300 CUNY researchers for their scholarship, innovation, and public service. Congratulations to Dr. Alicia M. Alvero and Dr. Rosemarie D. Wesson for their leadership, and special recognition to Hostos Community College awardees Dr. Yoel Rodriguez, Dr. Sofia Oviedo, and Dr. Sarah Holland. The program featured remarks by Chancellor Matos Rodríguez, Dr. Joshua Brumberg, and keynote speaker David B. Wilkins of Harvard Law School, along with distinguished guests, including Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal. We were honored to connect with CUNY and community leaders, including Dr. Hector Cordero, Dr. Christine Mangino, Dr. Larry D. Johnson Jr., Dr. Elizabeth De León Bhargava, Frances Bronet, Provost Andrea Fabrizio, Associate Dean Katia Gonzalez, and Dr. Nieves Angulo. Congratulations again to all the remarkable award recipients.

We were also pleased to join the High School Principals’ Association of New York City Awards and Scholarships Gala. Congratulations to Principal Yecenia Cardona-Delarosa, her board, the honored principals, and the student scholarship recipients. Principal Cardona-Delarosa has been a valued supporter of the Hostos Professional Development and Study Abroad Program. The gala beautifully highlighted the achievements and contributions of diverse professionals and students across New York City. Thank you for including Hostos in such a meaningful celebration.

Gracias to HACU for featuring the Hostos Professional Development & Study Abroad Program model during HACU’s 15th International Conference. Special thanks to Dr. Yudi Lewis and Dean Ana Garcia Reyes for presenting the program model, which has successfully sustained itself for four decades. The presentation was well received by HACU scholars, many of whom expressed interest in replicating the model at their own institutions. We are grateful to the HACU workshop coordinators for the invitation, recognition certificate, and opportunity to present virtually at the May 6, 2026 conference session.

Lastly, we were honored to join the Fund for the City of New York reception celebrating CUNY Trustee and former Commissioner of the Department for the Aging, Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez, on April 28, 2026. Trustee Cortés-Vázquez was recognized for her decades of leadership, dedication, and impact in public service, especially her advocacy for older adults across New York City. Congratulations to Dr. Lisette Nieves and Dr. Aldrin Bonilla on hosting a meaningful evening celebrating service and community leadership. Speakers included Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Dr. Luz Towns-Miranda, Deputy Mayor Dr. Helen Arteaga-Landaverde, Sandra Escamilla, and Joselin Genao Estrella, among many distinguished guests. We deeply appreciate the invitation and the opportunity to celebrate such an inspiring legacy of service.

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

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

Educating for Diversity Grant Supports Student Experiential Visit to the Bronx Children's Museum

Submitted by Prof. Mariana Diaz-Wionczek

On Wednesday, May 6, we organized an experiential learning opportunity for students in The Mind Collective Club and the Bronx Beautiful capstone. The visit brought together 20 students and 3 faculty members for an afternoon exploring the intersections between psychology, education, museums, informal learning, and community-centered design. Students participated in a panel and conversation with the Director of Programs & Education and members of the museum staff about their professional trajectories and the many pathways connecting behavioral sciences, child development, education, culture, and community engagement. The experience also included a guided museum tour and discussions around learning through play, identity, representation, and educational spaces designed for children and families in the Bronx. Today, the museum followed up with exciting summer volunteer opportunities for our students. The visit was supported by a MacKenzie Scott Educating for Diversity Grant and the Office of Student Activities, and it gave students an opportunity to connect classroom discussions to careers and community-based learning environments.

Lara-Bonilla and Choi Appointed General Co-Editors of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

The Office of Academic Affairs is beyond delighted to congratulate Dr. Inmaculada Lara Bonilla (Humanities) and Dr. Christine Choi (English) for their appointments as General Co-Editors of WSQ for a three-year term beginning June 1, 2026. WSQ, published by the Feminist Press at the City University of New York, is a leading interdisciplinary journal in feminist scholarship, dedicated to advancing critical conversations in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Drs. Lara Bonilla and Choi bring a dynamic editorial vision grounded in interdisciplinary inquiry and a commitment to amplifying transnational, decolonial, and intersectional perspectives.

Nursing Day was a Wonderful and Inspiring Experience for Our Students

Submitted by Professor Teresa Gray, Nursing Program

On May  5, 2026, the Nursing department celebrated Nursing Week with its annual Nursing Day Event, which was held in the Savoy Multipurpose Room. The event was well attended by 100 people, including Provost Fabrizo, Allied Health Chair Professor Macri, Nursing Coordinator Dr. Shaw, nursing students, faculty, staff, and our esteemed guest speaker, Dr. Paule Joseph, Senior Investigator at the National Institute of Health, who happens to be a former nursing student and a former nursing faculty member of Hostos Community College. The main goal of the Nurses’ Day Event was to highlight the contributions of nurses and to provide nursing students with essential information about the nursing profession, including the role of nurses, vital statistics, diversity, job availability, education, and salary.

The program included a musical video, poetry, presentations, and biographies of nurse leaders. The Nursing Day Event is facilitated by Nursing Students, who moderate and present. The event gives nursing students a historical perspective on the nursing profession, helping them understand that nurses with similar ethnic, racial, and social backgrounds have risen to the pinnacle of the profession. The two major highlights of the program were Hostos on Capitol Hill and the guest speaker's presentation, Dr. Paule Joseph.

Two nursing students from Hostos who went to Capitol Hill spoke about their experience being a part of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetrics, and Neonatal Nurses Organization. They were able to speak to Capitol Hill staffers for their senators and representatives about funding for nursing education and the exclusion of nursing as a profession, which will reduce federal funding for nurses' advanced degrees. Samantha Lopez, a Registered Nurse student, and Veronica Rosa, a Licensed Nurse student, spoke eloquently and confidently on Capitol Hill. Samatha Lopez’s speech was deeply emotional and impactful. The following are some of the highlights of Samatha Lopez’s stirring speech:

As a Puerto Rican born and raised in the Bronx, where money was often stretched thin among my many siblings and me, Washington, DC, felt like a place that would never be within reach. Who would’ve thought that a small community college like Hostos, in an underserved community with some of the poorest health outcomes in the boroughs, would make that possible?

When Professor Gray first approached me about this opportunity, explaining that it was an event hosted by the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, I was immediately excited. Labor and delivery is the specialty I hope to pursue, and the chance to deepen my understanding in that field meant so much to me.

At first, I believed I would simply be attending a conference, listening, learning, and gaining insight into how we can improve patient outcomes in the hospital setting. But I quickly realized this experience would be far more impactful than I had imagined. I found myself on Capitol Hill, in the very place where senators and representatives spend their days shaping, debating, and negotiating policies that directly affect patient care across the country.

We spoke about the Keeping Obstetrics Local Act, which aims to preserve and strengthen local labor and delivery services so patients can continue to access safe maternal care close to home, rather than facing closures or long-distance travel. We also advocated for the Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2025, which supports the nursing workforce by funding education and training programs, addressing staffing shortages, and improving retention. And we discussed funding for professional degrees, because nursing should be recognized as a professional degree that reflects the education, responsibility, and complexity of the role.

We were standing outside the office of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a space filled with colorful, sticky notes of inspiration and messages reflecting the energy of the people she represents. I even left one, myself, directly on her office nameplate that read, “We love you from Hostos Community College.”

Little did I know that just moments later, she would be walking back into her office. In pure disbelief, I even blurted out, “Oh my God,” as it registered that she was walking towards me. Emotion took over in that moment, she embraced me and gave me what felt like the safest hug in a building filled with tension and political intensity. In that moment, I felt seen in a way I will never forget.

But beyond the excitement, what stayed with me most was this: two Puerto Rican women from the Bronx standing in the heart of Capitol Hill.

Different roles, different paths but the same foundation: resilience, representation, and the belief that our voices belong in every space where decisions are made.

After this moving speech, Nursing Students heard from guest speaker Dr. Paule Joseph, a nurse who was once in their shoes and has reached the apex of the nursing profession at the National Institute of Health. This enabled students to connect with her on a personal level. She explained how she navigated nursing school and the nursing profession, and how she overcame obstacles during her nursing journey. She also spoke about the various nursing opportunities available to students who apply themselves. This was very impactful, as the nursing students were able to see a former Nursing student from the Hostos Nursing Program speak about the nursing profession. Overall, her speech was inspirational and uplifting, which motivated nursing students according to the post-survey. Students were asked on the exit survey what their biggest takeaway was from the presentation. Students responded by writing the following: The sky is the limit, do not give up, keep moving; Nothing can stop you; My big takeaway is that I am a nurse.

For her part, Samatha Lopez added that Dr. Paule Joseph proved that if you attended Hostos Community College, you can still do anything and go anywhere!

See photos from the Nursing Day event and our students’ visit to Capitol Hill here. 

Second in a Series of Pre-Law Advisor Workshops

Submitted by Prof. Amy Ramson, Behavioral and Social Sciences

On April 21, 2026, Professor Amy Ramson coordinated the second in a series of pre-law workshops at Hostos Community College, "What Pre-Law Advisors Want You to Know," made possible through the Hostos President's Initiative ADELANTE Award. The panel featured Katya Valasek, Director of Pre-Law Advising at the Law School Admissions Council; Elizabeth Broccoli, Pre-Law Institute Advisor at John Jay College; and Jennifer Light, Pre-Law Advisor for the Honors Program in Legal Studies at the City College of New York. Steven Martinez, the Research Assistant for this award, aided in flyer design, dissemination, and workshop operations.

COIL Addresses AI and Global Education

Submitted by Prof. Amy Ramson, Behavioral and Social Sciences 

On April 24, 2026, the COIL @Hostos Committee held a workshop titled "Navigating the Future: AI and Global Education," supported by the President's Initiative Educating for Diversity Award. The event opened with presentations by three faculty members who participated in a COIL Mentorship Initiative sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs at Hostos Community College, each sharing their COIL projects. The mentee-mentor pairings were:

• Professor Fiordaliza Ippolito / Professor Linda Ridley
• Professor Daniel Amarante / Professor Anna Ivanova
• Professor Mariana Vlahaki / Professor Krystyna Michael

Professor Amy Ramson is the Chair of the Committee. Mayerlin Francisco Berroa, the Research Assistant for this award, oversaw the workshop and conducted analysis of the post-workshop surveys.

Data‑Driven Strategies to Improve Math and English Outcomes at Hostos

Submitted by Dr. Silvia Reyes, Director of Special Projects

At the Coordinated Undergraduate Education (CUE) Summit 2026, held on April 30, 2026, at CUNY Central, Dr. Silvia Reyes and Dr. Elizabeth Porter presented Data-Driven Math and English Outcomes alongside a group of colleagues from across CUNY who are similarly engaged in data-informed initiatives, highlighting how the intentional use of data and coordinated academic supports are improving student success at Hostos. The presentation focused on the impact of Math Immersion Workshops designed to strengthen students’ readiness for upper-level and Gateway Math courses. Data from the 2023–24 and 2024–25 academic years showed that students who participated in the workshops and enrolled in gateway math courses immediately after completing the workshops demonstrated strong persistence, completion, and overall success. The session also highlighted the Writing Center’s use of the Navigate platform to support Gateway and Corequisite English students. 

PAC Hosts “Study Smarter, Stress Less” Workshop

Submitted by Prof. Nancy Genova

On April 22, 2026, the Public Administration Club (PAC), with support from the Office of Student Activities, hosted Study Smarter, Stress Less, a wellness‑focused workshop designed to help students manage academic stress and plan for life after graduation. The panel featured Dr. Abraham Gonzalez II, a public administration professional with experience at the National Security Agency, the Department of Justice, and Veterans Affairs; Dr. Cindy Bautista‑Thomas, Assistant Professor of Social Work at Lehman College, licensed clinical social worker, and founder of Abundance Counseling Services, LCSW, PLLC, and Velocity Visions, Inc.; and Nancy Ruffin, Director of Finance at NYC Health + Hospitals (Jacobi and NCB Hospitals), award‑winning Latina author, and professional coach. Moderated by PAC executive board members and welcomed by faculty advisor Professor Nancy Genova, the workshop highlighted career journeys, strategies to reduce test anxiety, and approaches to balancing academics, work, and family. Student feedback reflected strong engagement and high satisfaction with the event.

Prof. Milsom Awarded with a Book Completion Grant

Submitted by Dr. Kelba Sosa, Director of the Office of Grants & Research Administration

Congratulations to Professor Alexandra Milsom, Deputy Chair in the English Department, on receiving a Book Completion Award! What a wonderful and well-deserved achievement! Grantsmanship can be a challenging process, and your success is truly commendable. 

Hostos Faculty and Staff Shine at the CUNY Research and Sponsored Awards Celebration

Submitted by Dr. Katia González, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

On April 23, 2026, CUNY held the Research and Sponsored Awards celebration at the Graduate Center, which highlighted the impact of faculty research at the local, national, and international levels. Attendees were congratulated by Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost Alicia M. Alvero, and University Vice Provost for Research Rosemarie D. Wesson. Guest speakers, poster presentations, and awards were among the highlights of a very engaging afternoon. Several members of our Hostos community were recognized and had the opportunity to discuss their work during the poster session. Grants Officers were also acknowledged for their expertise, support, and invaluable contributions. Join us in congratulating Professors Sarah Hoiland, AJ Stachelek, Linda Sebisaho-Moscovitz, Nieves Angulo, Yoel Rodríguez-Fernández, Research Programs Director Sofía Oviedo, and our Grants team: Doctors Kelba Sosa and Amanda Howard, and Ms. Isabel Diaz.

CUNY Office Assistants are Recognized and Celebrated for Administrative Professionals Day

On April 29, 2026, the Office of Academic Affairs took an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the Hostos CUNY Office Assistants for Administrative Professionals Day. Recognition highlighted the value of their dedication and contributions to the division goals and the College’s mission. The COAs were appreciated for going above and beyond to meet the needs of the departments and programs and for pursuing excellence in service and demonstrating a commitment to students, faculty, and staff.  OAA leadership, department, and special program managers express their deep gratitude for the COAs' consistent efforts to support student retention and promote faculty and staff satisfaction.

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by VP Althea Sterling, Ed.D.

A Message from Vice President Sterling

Dear Students,

As we come to the close of the spring semester, I want to take a moment to congratulate you on your hard work, dedication, and achievements. Whether you are continuing your studies or preparing to graduate, you have made it through an important period of learning and growth.

As you prepare for your final exams and projects, please remember to take care of yourself so that you are healthy and able to focus on studying and completing everything you hope to accomplish. Part of self‑care and stress relief includes getting a good night’s sleep and eating healthy meals. The Health and Wellness team has been hosting multiple de‑stress events, and we encourage you to take a moment to participate.

Our Counseling Services staff, located in the C Building, Room 330, is also available to support you as you finish strong this semester. Students can schedule an appointment by emailing infocounseling@hostos.cuny.edu or by calling 718‑518‑4461.

I hope you are looking forward to the summer as a time to relax, recharge, spend time with family and friends, or further your education through summer internships, classes, or research projects.

For Our Graduates

To the Class of 2026: A huge congratulations! We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments. You have earned your place in our community, and we cannot wait to see what you achieve next.

For Returning Students

Before you head into the summer, please remember to register for your fall classes. We look forward to welcoming you back to campus in the fall for another great year.



To Our Faculty and Staff

Thank you for your collective commitment and dedication to supporting our students and for creating meaningful spaces where they can grow and thrive. It truly takes a village!

“Even in moments of uncertainty, your aspirations are worth holding onto. They are what guide you forward.”

Langston Hughes reminds us of this in his poem Dreams:

Hold fast to dreams

For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

Best wishes, students—finish strong!

Dr. Althea Sterling

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne

Campus-Wide Lighting Upgrade Project

We are pleased to share that a campus-wide lighting upgrade project is tentatively scheduled to begin in September. This initiative, led by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), will take place across the A, B, C, D, and G Buildings and represents a significant step toward improving energy efficiency and lighting quality throughout our campus.

The project will begin with installing samples of the various light fixtures in several ‘test-fit’ rooms throughout each building. These pilot spaces will allow the project team to evaluate lighting needs across a variety of room types and ensure that the final approach best supports how different campus spaces are used.

The scope of work includes a one-to-one replacement of existing lighting with modern LED fixtures. There will be no changes to ceiling layouts or fixture placements. In addition, dimmers and lighting controls will be installed to provide greater flexibility and enhance comfort in classrooms, offices, and shared spaces. Rooms that already have LED lighting will not be modified, and spaces that are currently under renovation or scheduled for upcoming renovation will be excluded from the lighting upgrade schedule.

The project is expected to span approximately 14 months. To minimize disruption to campus operations, all work will be performed during the evening, ensuring that spaces remain fully functional during regular hours.

Once completed, this upgrade will provide long-term benefits, including reduced energy consumption, improved lighting quality, and greater control over lighting levels to better support teaching, learning, and daily activities.

We will continue to share updates as the project progresses and appreciate your cooperation as these important campus improvements are implemented.

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

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

CEWD Completion Data Updates

As we near the close of FY 25-26, preliminary data indicate that we have enrolled over 2,132 CEWD students to date, with an 88% completion rate.  CEWD’s top courses continue to be in the following subject areas: Medical & Health, Construction, English as a Second Language (ESOL), and High School Equivalency (HSE). Most of our courses are in person (54%) and online (38%).  

We conclude our Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) 3-year grant with pride. Over the course of 3 years, three hundred and thirty-three (333) Community Healthcare Workers (CHW) were trained, exceeding our goal of 270. During the grant period, eighty-two (82) Community Healthcare Workers (CHW) participated in Hostos/CEWD’s USDOL Apprenticeship Program. They were hired in 1199 union jobs. The HRSA grant allowed us to increase employment opportunities beyond Montefiore to community-based agencies. In collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of Mental Health, we also enhanced our CHW curriculum. 

CEWD continues to strengthen its college transition efforts. During this academic year, sixty-one (61) CEWD students matriculated at Hostos as incoming first-year students. At the same time, we congratulate forty (40) CEWD alumni who will be graduating with a degree from Hostos Community College with the class of 2026. 

Con Edison and Hostos CEWD Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology Training (87.5 hours) 

This is a newly added course with funding from Con Edison. This no-cost program includes Your Role in the Green Environment modules from National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER), a provider of industry-recognized training and certifications for the construction workforce. 

Core - Introduction to Basic Construction Skills (72.5 hours): 

• Basics in safety 
• Using hand and power tools 
• Materials handling 
• Employability skills 

Your Role in the Green Environment (15 hours): 

• How to measure your carbon footprint and reduce it 
• How buildings affect the green environment 
• How green building rating systems work 

Incentives: 

•  NCCER textbooks 
•  PPE for construction work 
•  $50 gift card 
•  Industry-recognized NCCER credentials 

For more information, contact Hurriya Ali at sali@hostos.cuny.edu or 718-319-7986 or complete the inquiry form: https://qrco.de/ConEdHostosCleanTechnology. 

Read and Learn More about the History of Continuing Ed and Workforce Development in CUNY!

“Expanding CUNY’s Mission: The History and Scope of Continuing Education” is an exhibit that has gathered 181 documents to trace the history of CUNY’s Division of Adult and Continuing Education at the Central Office from its creation in 1984 in the Office of Academic Affairs through a 36-year evolution. That office, working closely with campus ACE programs, built a host of successful and lasting programs that continue to serve hundreds of thousands of students and has brought significant change to CUNY and New York City. Take a look here.

View the CEWD Spring 2026 Catalog 

Go here for the catalog.

CEWD Virtual Information Sessions

May  

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

June  

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.

Register by June 30 to Get the Hostos Alumni Reunion Early Bird Rate!

Summer is just beginning, but the Hostos Alumni Reunion will be here before you know it! Register by June 30 to lock in a special early bird rate for this day full of connection, community, and fun for the whole family.

Get your tickets today.

Alumni Newsletter Vol. 2

The second edition of the Hostos Alumni Newsletter was published on May 15. Six contributors shared their original work, highlighting the diverse talents and perspectives of the alumni community. To contribute to Vol. 3 or read past volumes, use the links below. For more information, contact

Alumni Relations Manager Felix Sanchez at fsanchez@hostos.cuny.edu to learn more.

Submission Form | Past Volumes

VP of Institutional Advancement to Host Weekly Office Hours – Recurring Notice

Do you have an idea to improve Hostos? Stop by VP Julie Gafney’s office in D-204 between 3–4 p.m. on Wednesdays to discuss your ideas and learn about the grant-seeking process! Concepts can include improvements in academics or student services. Please note: all ideas are welcome, but not all are fundable. Strong concepts will be clearly aligned with broader institutional priorities as outlined in the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan.

Opportunity of the Week

If you believe you have a program that fits the description, contact Kelsey Hillebrand, Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager, at khillebrand@hostos.cuny.edu. Research grants, indicated in bold*, must pursue funding through the Research Foundation of CUNY (RF CUNY). This is not an exhaustive list, so please continue to search Pivot and GrantForward for additional opportunities in your specific domains.

Area: Education Research Grants | Leveraging large scale data to support STEM education

Deadline: May 20, 2026

Funding: $25,000 (1 year) or $35,000 (2 year)

More information: AERA Research Grant

Area: New Artistic Work Production

Deadline: May 21, 2026

Funding: up to $100,000

More information: VIA Art

Area: Law Enforcement: Crisis Response and Deescalation Training

Deadline: May 27, 2026

Funding: up to $700,000

More information: DOJ | RFP

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!

Dental Hygiene Program Featured on News12!

Thanks to News12 for visiting our campus to learn more about our Dental Hygiene program and free services. Hear from our wonderful student Asma Al Omari as she shares her experience in the program here.

Fourth Annual Multi-Faith Symposium Explores Faith, Inclusion, and Civic Engagement

What if faith could become a tool for finding common ground? What if people stopped seeing themselves as spokespeople for entire religions or belief systems? Those were among the questions posed by keynote speaker Dr. Henry Goldschmidt, Director of Programs at the Interfaith Center of New York, during the Fourth Annual Multi-Faith Symposium and Luncheon on May 11. Read more here.

Meet Lusdeliza Paulino Reyes, Our 2026 Valedictorian, and Luna Luna Martínez, Our Salutatorian

Hailing from the Dominican Republic, Lusdeliza Paulino Reyes, our 2026 Valedictorian, is proof of resilience and grit, and possesses an unbreakable spirit that knows what it wants and will do whatever it takes to achieve her dreams. Read more here.

For her part, Luna Luna Martínez, the 2026 Salutatorian, combines a nearly perfect GPA with a firm commitment to helping others, a practice of giving back which marked her time at Hostos, and one she’s determined to continue in her life and career beyond the campus. Check out her story here. 

Hostos Radiologic Technology Faculty Publishes New Textbook in Patient Care and Professional Practice

The Hostos Radiologic Technology Unit is proud to recognize Professor Sanjay Arya on the publication of his new textbook, Patient Care and Professional Practice. The book reflects his ongoing work in advancing Allied Health education through focused, learner-centered authorship. Sole-authored by Professor Arya and published by Quantum Imaging Lab, the textbook is the result of several years of writing and development. It draws on his extended experience working in clinical healthcare settings, ongoing conversations with practicing technologists, close observation of how students learn, and a deliberate response to the learning styles of today’s generation of allied health professionals. The book is aligned with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) content specifications. It is written for learners across the Allied Health professions and all imaging modalities, supporting students, educators, and practicing professionals in delivering safe, ethical, and patient-centered care.

The book takes a fresh approach to teaching patient care: one designed for how today’s learners actually study, retain, and apply clinical knowledge. It is built to serve multiple purposes: as a primary text for classroom instruction, a standalone clinical reference for use in practice, a preparation tool for ARRT and other allied health credentialing examinations, and a continuing-development resource for practicing professionals strengthening their patient care competence. Its central goal is to close the gap between what students learn in the classroom and what they do in clinical practice.

Patient Care and Professional Practice is available worldwide in paperback through Amazon (ISBN 9798254638902). Readers can view the listing here. 

Books like this one matter because they reach the people doing the work: students learning the profession, technologists refining their practice, educators looking for clearer ways to teach. We are proud to see a member of our faculty contribute at this level, and prouder still that the work is rooted in the daily realities of patient care.

This publication adds to a growing body of scholarly work from the Hostos Radiologic Technology Unit, and we look forward to its reaching students, educators, and practicing professionals well beyond our own classrooms.

Dean García Reyes to Receive Special Recognition

Shout out to Dean Ana Garcia Reyes for being recognized by the Instituto Duartiano de los Estados Unidos as a recipient of the “Manuela Díez – Exemplary Mother’s Day Recognition for Noble Society Values” award. This well-deserved honor celebrates her leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to uplifting our communities through service and education.

The awards ceremony will take place on May 21, 2026, at the Dirección de Cultura Dominicana de Nueva York. We are grateful for this meaningful recognition and congratulate Dean Garcia Reyes on this special achievement.

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: THIS AFTERNOON! Lavender Graduation Ceremony

Date | Time: Friday, May 15 | 3 - 5 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: Celebrate your graduation with your chosen family and the Hostos LGBTQIA+ Council. Lavender Graduation ceremonies are celebrated throughout the country for students who are not always able to be out to their families. Students will receive a rainbow graduation stole to wear at the main ceremony, and a certificate with their chosen name. 

Title: Faculty Recognition Ceremony

Date | Time: Monday, May 18 | 10 AM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: Join us for the 2026 Faculty Recognition Ceremony as we celebrate the outstanding dedication, achievements, and years of service of our distinguished faculty members. Hosted by the Office of Academic Affairs, this special event honors excellence in teaching, student engagement, and the lasting impact our educators have on the college community.

Title: Nurse Pinning Ceremony

Date | Time: Monday, May 18 | 12 PM

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: Join the Nursing Class of 2026 in the celebration of this important milestone, where each graduate will make an oath to serve with the utmost compassion and professionalism in healthcare.

Title: CUNY Start: Spring Alumni Exchange

Date | Time: Tuesday, May 19 | 1:30 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: The CUNY Start: Spring Alumni Exchange will bring together current students and alumni to share experiences, build connections, and celebrate their journeys. We will also be working in collaboration with some of our campus partners for student resources. 

Title: Dental Pinning Ceremony

Date | Time: Wednesday, May 20 | 11 AM

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: The Dental Hygiene Class of 2026 invites you this special occasion. Speeches, awards, and a lovely photo slideshow will celebrate the history of the cohort as they embark on their professional journey!

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: Tuesday, June 2 at 11 AM & Wednesday, June 3 at 11 AM

Location: Main Theater

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

Title: Radiologic Technology Pinning Ceremony

Date | Time: Wednesday, July 22 | 10 AM

Location: Hostos Research Center

Description: The Radiologic Technology Unit invites you to their Annual Pinning Ceremony, where each graduate will celebrate the ending of this academic journey along with their professors, supporters, and loved ones.

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.

This is the closing number of Semanario Vol. 12. We will go on break and return in Fall 2026. Thank you to our contributors and readers.

Have a joyful summer!