Friday, May 8, 2026 | Vol. 12, No. 13

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

My Dear Colleagues and Students,

The last week of classes is ahead of us, before final exams begin.  I know you are working to support our students and each other as we ensure the successful completion of courses and pre-registration for summer and fall semester classes.  

I am happy to share my remarks at the Peace and Poetry Celebration on April 29.

Peace and Poetry Celebration

Welcome Remarks

April 29, 2026

Buenos días, good morning,

So happy to see you all as we celebrate another Peace and Poetry celebration. Special thank you, mil gracias, to Michelle Lee St. Marthe, Sarah Key, Dr. Sophia Oviedo, José García, Professor Elizabeth Porter, our Bronx poets, distinguished Alumna of Hostos and Bronx poet Laureate (2023-25) Kay Poema, and the “Community Poet” Dara Kalima. 

Our students, faculty, and staff participants are just superb and should be commended.

You’ve heard me say this before: Rumi, a Persian poet of the thirteenth century, would say that poetry is the open space where we grow in resilience, persistence, and connection. Poetry is about creating connections as we realize our shared experiences and feelings. It helps us deepen our connections even as we explore different interpretations, all of which stem from our shared experiences as human beings.

I am looking forward to a morning of the celebration of peace to be shared by the power of poetry.  

Mil gracias y bendiciones,

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

President

POEM

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

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

Hostos Research Center Announces 2026 ADELANTE Awardees

The Hostos Research Center (HRC) and Committee on Sponsored Programs and Grants (CSPG) are pleased to announce the new 2026 ADELANTE grantees! The funded projects span various disciplines, including behavioral and social sciences, English, humanities, mathematics, and natural sciences. A total of $64,900 has been awarded to seven faculty and staff members who will begin developing their funded research and projects over a one-year period. The projects will also engage Hostos student research assistants who will receive faculty mentoring and hands-on research experience. Congratulations to all the new ADELANTE awardees! Click here to see the full list of grantees.

Call for Proposals for 2026 IDEAS Project Development Awards

The HRC-CSPG has 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.

Please join us to learn more about this initiative on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 12:30 – 1:30 pm via Zoom.

Please click here to join the Zoom meeting.

Meeting ID: 890 8077 7472 Passcode: 648393

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

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

CUNY Computer Use Policy

CUNY’s computer resources are dedicated to the support of the University’s mission of education, research and public service. In furtherance of this mission, CUNY respects, upholds and endeavors to safeguard the principles of academic freedom, freedom of expression and freedom of inquiry. Read the entire policy here.

GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.

NYC Department of Transportation to Hold Access to Independence Transportation Resource Fair

On Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Union Square Park’s North Plaza, the New York City Department of Transportation will host the Access to Independence Transportation Resource Fair. 

This free public event connects people with disabilities and older adults to transportation services, accessibility tools, and community resources that support independent travel across New York City.

Attendees will be able to:

• Learn about accessible transportation options.
• Meet transportation providers and public agencies.
• Explore transportation technology.
• Participate in demonstrations and travel training.
• Connect with disability and older adult organizations.
• Enjoy live music, a dance workshop, and kids’ activities.

RSVP is not required, but you can learn more and sign up for email updates by subscribing to the Mobility Management newsletter on the Mobility Management website.

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY

Submitted by Associate Director Stephanie Oliviero



Celebrating Diversity: Heritage Days in May!

As we transition into the vibrant month of May, it’s an opportune time to honor and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that make Hostos so diverse and unique. Throughout this month, we have the privilege of recognizing various heritage days that highlight the beauty of our differences and the strength of our unity. The month of May serves as a poignant reminder of the countless contributions and accomplishments of individuals from diverse backgrounds. May has been designated as the following:

● Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

● Jewish American Heritage Month

● Haitian Heritage Month

● Indian Heritage Month

● Military Appreciation Month

● Mental Health Awareness Month

● South Asian Heritage Month

Let us embrace the opportunity to learn from one another, share our stories, and foster greater understanding and appreciation of the multitude of cultures that enrich our lives. Let us seize this moment to celebrate our differences, to stand in solidarity with one another, and to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and welcoming campus community. Together, let’s make this May a time of reflection, celebration, and growth as we honor the diverse heritage that binds us together as one community.    

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

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

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

Social Sciences Unit Hosts a Meet the Faculty Event

By Dr. Kristopher Burrell, Social Sciences Unit Chair

Professor and Unit Coordinator Kristopher Burrell from the Behavioral and Social Science Department hosted a successful "Meet the Social Sciences Faculty" event on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, for students to learn about the Liberal Arts Options hosted by the Social Sciences Unit, scholarship opportunities through the social sciences, as well as career pathways through the liberal arts and social sciences. Students had opportunities to ask questions directly to faculty and make important connections with faculty and their peers.  For more information, contact kburrell@hostos.cuny.edu. 

A Message from the Mamos of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, the Heart of the World

Submitted by Professor Amanda Bernal-Carlo and Associate Professor Maria del Carmen Inda García

On April 22, 2026, the Mamos, spiritual authorities of the Arhuaco tribe, invited us into a space of deep listening, reflection, and balance. This talk shared ancestral wisdom rooted in the Ley de Origen, the most sacred law of the planet and the Universe, the harmony among human beings, nature, and the cosmos, to celebrate Earth Day.

This was not simply a talk—it was an invitation to pause, to remember our connection to Mother Earth, and to listen to knowledge that has been safeguarded for millennia by the guardians of the sacred sites of the Sierra. Through silence, introspection, and reverence for all forms of life, the Mamos teach that each person carries within themselves the capacity to restore balance—both inwardly and in the world.

Building the AI Workforce through Community Colleges

Submitted by Professor Moise Koffi

I am pleased to share that Professors Nieves Angulo, Moise Koffi, Armando Amador, and Christelle Dejolie from the Mathematics and Computer Science Department participated in the 2026 National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium (NAAIC) AI Summit, themed “Building the AI Workforce through Community Colleges,” held February 19–20 at Miami Dade College in Miami.

Designed for faculty, administrators, industry practitioners, and policymakers, the Summit focused on strengthening the U.S. AI workforce pipeline by highlighting the vital role of community colleges. The event was sponsored by the National Science Foundation and Google.org, with support through strategic partnerships with major technology companies such as Lenovo, Microsoft, and OpenAI to advance AI education, curriculum development, faculty training, and workforce readiness. These partners also provided resources, training programs, and industry insights that align with and support community college AI initiatives.

Attendees gained insights from leading companies driving AI innovation, faculty peers sharing effective practices in AI instruction, and students enrolled in AI programs who offered valuable perspectives on the learning experience. The program included hands-on training sessions led by organizations such as Microsoft, Google, and Intel, providing faculty with opportunities to enhance their instructional expertise and earn certifications that support professional growth and program development.

Panel discussions featuring representatives from Microsoft, Intel, Google, IBM, Cisco, and AWS further explored strategies for integrating AI across curricula. They emphasized the importance of upskilling and reskilling students by embedding AI competencies throughout academic programs to meet rapidly evolving industry demands.

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by VP Althea Sterling, Ed.D.

Children’s Center

Student-Parents and Children Graduating Together!

The Children’s Center is proud to recognize our student-parents who are graduating in May 2026, while their children are moving up to the next grade level at the Children’s Center and on to kindergarten.

This semester, we celebrate nine student-parents who have worked diligently to complete their degrees and achieve this important milestone. The mission of the Children’s Center is to provide a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for the children of student-parents, allowing them to focus on the many responsibilities of parenting, studying, and working.

Through their perseverance, dedication, and their children's consistent attendance at the Center, these parents have successfully reached their educational goals.

The Children’s Center Moving Up Ceremonies will be held at the Center on Friday, May 15. We hope to see many of our children walking across the stage at Commencement on June 2 and 3.

Transfer Services

Finding the Right Fit Through Guided Exploration

Student Spotlight: Erick Hernández

One campus tour at a time, that’s how we change futures, and Erick Hernández is a perfect example.

During a recent Transfer Services campus tour to York College, Erick experienced a defining moment. As he stepped into the college’s studios, he immediately felt a sense of belonging. Although the commute will be longer than his current trip to Hostos Community College, Erick shared that the additional travel is worth it, he has found a space that truly aligns with his academic goals and passion.

Erick, a dedicated participant in the ASAP and ARC programs, is set to graduate this spring. As he approaches this milestone, he is already preparing for what comes next. He looks forward to meeting with an adviser to begin mapping out his Fall 2026 schedule and continuing his academic journey with intention.

Following the tour, Erick quickly registered for York College’s Open House on April 24. With guidance from Transfer Services’ Associate Director, Samantha Maldonado, he is preparing to make the most of the experience by approaching it with thoughtful questions:

•     What opportunities are available for transfer students in my major?

•     How can I get involved in internships or student organizations?

•     What support services are available for academic advising, tutoring, and career planning?

By equipping students with these tools, Samantha empowers them to take an active role in shaping their educational paths and making informed decisions about their futures.

In a moment that reflects the strong connections fostered by the Transfer Services team, Erick asked if he could continue visiting Hostos after graduation. Samantha reassured him that he will always be welcome as an alumnus, reinforcing the sense of community that extends beyond graduation.

Stories like Erick’s remind us why campus tours matter. They open doors, spark possibilities, and help students see themselves in new environments.

One campus tour at a time, one success story at a time!

Learn more about transfer opportunities:

Transfer Services: D Building, Room 101, Monday–Thursday, 10 AM – 3 PM 

Rocio Rayo, Director, rrayo@hostos.cuny.edu 

Samantha Maldonado, Assistant Director, smaldonadogarcia@hostos.cuny.edu

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne

Campus Facilities Update

B Building – 3rd Floor Renovation

The renovation of the B Building’s third floor is now approximately 85% complete and steadily progressing toward the final phase of construction. Substantial completion is anticipated in summer 2026. This milestone will include ensuring that all major building systems are fully operational, flooring installation is finalized, and audiovisual (AV) equipment is installed and tested.

Following this phase, additional time will be dedicated to furniture delivery and installation, final inspections, system optimization, and preparing the space for occupancy. Based on the current timeline, faculty and staff are expected to return to the third floor in Spring 2027. We appreciate the College community’s continued patience as this project moves toward completion and delivers upgraded, modernized learning and working environments.

B Building – South Façade Brick Wall Repair

This project will involve replacing the bricks of the entire south façade to remediate deterioration and deficiencies in the original installation. The work is scheduled to begin in early summer. The project will start with the installation of scaffolding to ensure safe and controlled demolition of the affected brickwork. Once the existing façade is carefully removed, construction of the new brick façade will commence.

All major materials, including brick and mortar, have been selected to align with the campus’ structural and aesthetic requirements. The full scope of work is expected to take approximately 6–8 months, with anticipated completion in Spring 2027.

Throughout construction, safety remains the top priority, and appropriate measures will be in place to minimize disruption to campus operations. We will continue to share updates as these projects progress.

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

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

CEWD Job Fair a Success!

On Thursday, April 16, 2026, seventy (70) CEWD students and alumni participated in on-site interviews and employment opportunities.  

Special thanks to our employer partners in attendance: 

SKIP of New York, Assist Ambulance, Community Healthcare Network, Workforce1 Healthcare Career Center, QSAC (Quality Services for the Autism Community), Towne Nursing Staff, Vertical Staffings, New York State Office Of Mental Health - Bronx Psychiatric Center, Lincoln Hospital (Health and Hospital Corporation), R.A.I.N. Total Care, and La'Dorch Home Care. 

Thank you, Juan Vazquez, Interim Operations Manager/Industry Specialist, and the CEWD Team that helped make the event a success. 

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  

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.

Thank You for Supporting the 2026 Scholarship Benefit

The Hostos Community College Foundation’s 2026 Annual Benefit on April 30 brought together nearly 250 supporters at the Surf Club on the Sound for an inspiring evening of celebration, storytelling, and community pride. The program featured a moving student testimonial, recognition of distinguished honorees, and reflections from College leadership that underscored Hostos’ vital role in expanding educational and economic opportunity in the South Bronx. Together, these moments highlighted the life-changing impact of scholarships and the strength of a community deeply committed to student success.

Throughout the evening, two extraordinary $100,000 gifts were announced, reinforcing the community’s commitment to investing in Hostos's strong future. The first gift from honoree Dr. Juan Tapia Mendoza is intended to establish an endowed scholarship, and the second gift from Jorge Madruga will support the College’s capital campaign for the new 558 Grand Concourse Allied Health and Natural Sciences Building.

The night served as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community, philanthropy, and purpose come together in support of brighter futures. Read the full story here and watch the video recap here.

If you missed out this year but would still like to make a gift, visit www.GivetoHostos.com.

Graduating? Apply for your Alumni ID!

Spring 2026 graduates are invited to apply for a Hostos Alumni ID! ID cards will be issued once a student’s graduate status is processed and confirmed by the Registrar’s office, which typically takes 2-3 months. Visit the alumni ID card page or contact Alumni Relations Manager Felix Sanchez at fsanchez@hostos.cuny.edu to learn more.

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: Translating STEM Research into practice | NSF*

Deadline: May 19, 2026

Funding: $600,000-$2 million

More information: NSF TTP

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 Welcomes CUNY Black Male Initiative’s Second Annual Research Symposium, Showcasing University-Wide Student Scholarship

On a clear spring morning on May 1 in the South Bronx, students, faculty, and administrators from across the City University of New York convened at Hostos Community College’s Research Center (HRC) for the second annual Research Symposium organized by the Black Male Initiative (BMI), a CUNY-wide initiative to support the inclusion and success of underrepresented groups in higher education. Read more here.

Hostos Alumnus and Professor, Sergio Mauritz Ang ‘11, Joins Cast of Shakespeare in the Park’s Production of Romeo and Juliet

Since its founding in 1968, Hostos has served as a stepping-stone to the world for generations of students. For alum Sergio Mauritz Ang ‘11, the College provided him with opportunities to discover, develop and practice his theatrical skills. Ang has accumulated impressive acting credentials in his post-Hostos years and, in late May, will appear in the Public Theater’s Free Shakespeare in the Park production of Romeo and Juliet. He’ll be playing Friar John and other characters in the ensemble. This will mark his first appearance with the prestigious Public Theatre, a venerable mainstay of New York’s theatre world. Read more here.

Hostos Radiologic Technology Faculty Deliver Landmark Presentation at 59th AERTSNY Annual Conference

The Hostos Radiologic Technology Unit is proud to recognize Professors Sanjay Arya and Jarek Stelmark for yet another milestone in their ongoing commitment to advancing radiologic science education — this time on the regional conference stage.

Building on their internationally recognized work with RAD-AID International in Cabo Verde, Professors Arya and Stelmark brought their experience full circle on March 19, 2026, presenting “Teaching Radiologic Sciences Without Borders: A RAD-AID Case Study in Cabo Verde” at the 59th Annual Conference of the Association of Educators in Radiologic Technology of New York (AERTSNY). In a historic first for the organization, Professors Arya and Stelmark spearheaded AERTSNY’s inaugural mid-year online lecture, delivered via Zoom — a milestone formally recognized in the official 59th Annual Conference brochure.

The presentation drew directly from the Limited X-ray Machine Operator (LXMO) training initiative the two professors designed and delivered in Cabo Verde over the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters. Together, they walked the audience through the program’s didactic architecture and clinical structure, developed in alignment with the ASRT LXMO framework and adapted for bilingual, asynchronous delivery, alongside the academagogical schema that served as its philosophical foundation, a synthesized educational framework blending pedagogy, andragogy, and heutagogy to guide both the training design and the mentorship approach used throughout the program.

Together, they presented measurable outcomes from the program’s first cohort, including improved imaging workflow, strengthened patient safety culture, and the establishment of a replicable bilingual LXMO model for national expansion across the Cabo Verde archipelago.

The session was approved for 1.5 ASRT Category A continuing education credits, reflecting the depth and professional relevance of the content delivered.

We commend Professors Arya and Stelmark for their exceptional leadership and for representing Hostos Community College with distinction. Their work continues to demonstrate that the impact of a Hostos education — and the dedication of its faculty — reaches far beyond the South Bronx and into communities around the world.

Dental Hygiene Information Session: Plan Your Path to Success

The Dental Hygiene Unit recently hosted an engaging and informative session designed to guide prospective students through the pathway to entering the profession. Led by Isis Marsh and Catherine Monchik, the event brought together faculty, campus partners, and future students for an afternoon of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. A total of 40 students attended the session.

The session featured valuable contributions from campus partners who provided insight into academic and financial support services, including Alba Lynch from the Student Success Coaching Unit, Marina Esquilin from the Scholarship Office, and Lissette Jourdain from the Hostos Academic Learning Center. Their participation highlighted the strong network of support available to students throughout their academic journey. This collaborative event not only benefited prospective students but also provided presenters with valuable insight into cross-departmental roles in supporting student success.

The Dental Hygiene Information Session was well received and successfully provided students with clear guidance on preparing for entry into the program. By connecting students with essential resources and fostering engagement, the event reinforced the program’s commitment to student success.

Based on the positive feedback, the program’s goal is to offer this information session once per semester, ensuring consistent access to guidance and resources for prospective students throughout the academic year. Special thanks to the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA) for their support in making this initiative possible.

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: Research Presentation: “Expanding CUNY’s Mission: The History and Scope of Continuing Education”

Date | Time: Monday, May 11 | 10 AM - 12 PM

Location: Hostos Research Center

Description: John Mogulescu and Bonne August will talk about “Expanding CUNY’s Mission: The History and Scope of Continuing Education,” 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.

Title: 4th Annual Hostos Multi-Faith Symposium and Luncheon

Date | Time: Monday, May 11 | 1 - 2:30 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: Hostos Community College invites all members of the Hostos family to attend the fourth annual Multi-Faith Symposium and Luncheon. This annual event is a wonderful way to usher in the spring season as we come together to learn how we can best honor and support diverse forms of faith and spiritual expression. We are pleased to have Dr. Henry Goldschmidt, Director of Programs at the Interfaith Center of NY, facilitating an interactive workshop that will engage us in interfaith dialogue and community-building. All students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend!

Title: All College Meeting: “End of Semester Gathering and Recognitions”

Date | Time: Tuesday, May 12 | 10 AM (Doors open at 9:30 a.m.)

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: Come and hear updates from College leadership and join in celebrating the successes of our incredible community with the Manos a la Obra/All-Hands-on-Deck Awards Ceremony!

Title: 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: 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.