Friday, November 14, 2025 | Vol. 11, No. 12 | | MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS | | |
My Dear Colleagues and Students,
As we continue to enjoy the autumn leaves and a gradual change in the weather, we reflect on how far along we have come in the semester. I am really delighted to hear about the growing number of students who have chosen to register early for the Spring 2026, as they also focus on successful completion of this term. A special thank you to our faculty and staff for their constant, generous support and engagement of our students. I know they understand that this is an optimal time to stay focused on supporting students and one another as we strive for a successful completion of the semester and plan for a spring semester of continued growth and retention of our students.
As I continue to reflect on our culture at Hostos, I find it can be distilled to this simple truth, which I shared with you in Semanario at the beginning of Spring 2025: “At the core of this resistance is love.” This resistance – the determination of our students to pursue their education despite the daily realities of insecurity, displacement, and inequity in the South Bronx – defines who we are as a College. I also want to reiterate that the warmth and humanity expressed through daily interaction with our staff and faculty are among the defining qualities of Hostos. Our students feel that love: they return seeking it when challenges arise at our four-year partner institutions, and we, in turn, continue to support their success.
I wish you another week filled with hard work and hope as we prepare for the Thanksgiving break.
Mil gracias y bendiciones,
Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.
President
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The Human Family
By Maya Angelou
I note the obvious differences
in the human family.
Some of us are serious,
some thrive on comedy.
Some declare their lives are lived
as true profundity,
and others claim they really live
the real reality.
The variety of our skin tones
can confuse, bemuse, delight,
brown and pink and beige and purple,
tan and blue and white.
I've sailed upon the seven seas
and stopped in every land,
I've seen the wonders of the world
not yet one common man.
I know ten thousand women
called Jane and Mary Jane,
but I've not seen any two
who really were the same.
Mirror twins are different
although their features jibe,
and lovers think quite different thoughts
while lying side by side.
We love and lose in China,
we weep on England's moors,
and laugh and moan in Guinea,
and thrive on Spanish shores.
We seek success in Finland,
are born and die in Maine.
In minor ways we differ,
in major we're the same.
I note the obvious differences
between each sort and type,
but we are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike.
We are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike.
We are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike.
Angelou, Maya. "Human Family." The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou, Random House, 1994.
| | MESSAGE FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT NICHELLE HEMPHILL | | |
Fall Semester Highlights
Hello!
I’m excited to share some of the incredible things happening across Hostos this semester. From wellness to creativity, advocacy to celebration, our campus is alive with events that reflect the heart of our student community.
We partnered with the Counseling Center for a Karaoke afternoon because sometimes healing sounds like laughter, music, and a mic in your hand. It was a beautiful reminder that mental health support can be joyful, accessible, and community-driven.
We also welcomed Planned Parenthood and Nurse Vasquez for a powerful event focused on reproductive health and student wellness. These conversations matter, and we’re proud to create spaces where care meets education.
The spirit of Halloween came to life with Hostoween! Costumes, candy, and community. What more could you ask for?
And behind the scenes, we’re listening. An anonymous tech survey is circulating to help us identify and address technology challenges on campus. If you haven’t filled it out yet, check your emails and please do; it’s one of the ways we’re making sure your voice shapes real solutions.
This semester is about more than events. We are building a campus culture rooted in care, creativity, and collective power. Thank you for showing up, speaking out, and making Hostos a place where students lead with heart.
Let’s keep the momentum going.
I love you all,
Nichelle
| | MS. MACKENZIE SCOTT'S GIFT: PRESIDENT'S INITIATIVES | | |
Submitted by Research Programs Director Sofia Oviedo, Ph.D.
Hostos Research Center Announces ADELANTE 2026 Call for Proposals
The Hostos Research Center and Committee on Sponsored Programs and Grants (HRC-CSPG) is pleased to announce a new Call for 2026 ADELANTE Project Proposals. Faculty and staff are invited to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects that advance research, need-based, and/or creative/transformative interventions in all disciplines, and proposals that aim to conduct research on critical issues impacting the South Bronx. All proposals are expected to include students as research assistants to provide our students with mentorship and direct research experience. You do not want to miss this opportunity to apply for funding to support new or continuing research efforts. Click here for the full announcement. Stay tuned for an upcoming Office Hours session and mark your calendars. The application deadline is February 2, 2026.
Final Day to Submit Your Poem for Peace & Poetry Event!
Inviting all Hostos poets - students, faculty, and staff who are interested in sharing their favorite poem or original creation to submit their entry for the upcoming Peace & Poetry event on Tuesday, December 9 at 1:00 PM in the Savoy Multi-Purpose Room. This is a wonderful opportunity for new poets, especially, to share their creativity and inspiration in a welcoming and jovial atmosphere. All original submissions will also be considered for publication in a subsequent compilation of the Peace & Poetry events to be issued in two years. Please submit your poem here for consideration, and we welcome submissions in Spanish and other languages.
Deadline for submissions is today, Friday, November 14, 2025.
| | OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT (OIERA) | | |
Submitted by Institutional Effectiveness AVP Babette Audant, Ph.D.
Domino Effect: SNAP, the South Bronx and Hostos’ Students
More than 1.8 million New Yorkers (see Gothamist, 11/4/2025) depend on SNAP - nearly 14% of the population. In the Bronx, it’s 40% of the population, and in the South Bronx, that number swells to more than 60%. On November 1, no SNAP benefits were distributed, leaving many households without money to buy food.
The federal government has been shut down for more than five weeks. Among the many impacts of the shut down, already the longest in history, is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as SNAP. Nationally, more than 41 million US residents get SNAP, 1 of 8 people or 12.3% of the population in 2024, according to the USDA. The average monthly benefit is $187, and the majority of households receiving SNAP include at least one working adult (work that is often seasonal or intermittent). SNAP injects more than $80 billion dollars into the US economy every year to be spent on food, supporting large and small grocery stores across all 50 states. That is more than $4 billion city-wide, and more than $650 million in the Bronx each year.
With SNAP benefits suspended, the impacts are immediate: In addition to the stress of not knowing when the money is coming with which to buy groceries, accessing food pantries (like the one at Hostos, that has prepared as best as possible for this emergency) takes time. Moreover, without this money circulating, and generating economic activity, there is a domino effect as already stretched households necessarily prioritize food and spend less in shoe stores, hair salons, pharmacies and dry cleaners.
Many grocery stores, who operate on paper-thin margins of 1-3%, especially those in low-income neighborhoods like the South Bronx, rely on SNAP to keep inventory coming in and to pay their often low-wage workers, who are often themselves dependent on SNAP.
What does this have to do with Hostos? Our students are from the South Bronx and other low-income neighborhoods. SNAP benefits reduce students’ hunger, helps them feed their kids, allows scarce financial resources to be spent on rent, utilities, and transportation. The stress of food insecurity, of worrying about where the money will come from to pay for food, impacts students’ ability to focus on college. The number one reason why students are not retained is financial stress. We’re approaching the end of the term, when students are particularly vulnerable. We worked thoughtfully and collaboratively as an institution to coordinate what is an increasingly strategic, proactive and effective First Year Experience, and from this, we are extending best practices to keep students engaged and on track. This is a situation that - in addition to ICE targeting and terrorizing immigrants - will impact us and over which we have little control. What we can do as an institution is lean hard into the sense of safety and sense of belonging we build at Hostos. In doing so, despite, and to spite, the cruelty of this impossible situation, we can continue to be proactive, ask students how they are doing, help them access college and community resources, and continuously remind students that we are aware of what is going on, and that we are working together to support them. That Hostos is committed to hope as action and an act of defiance.
Students seeking food assistance can access, and should be referred to, the Hostos Food Pantry. The Food Pantry is among the College's most vital student support resources, thanks to the continued generosity of President Cocco De Filippis, funding through the Ms. MacKenzie Scott grant and other internal and external donations. In response to the anticipated interruption of SNAP benefits, VP of Student Development and Enrollment Management Dr. Althea Sterling sent a notice to the college community emphasizing that "the Food Pantry is currently fully stocked with a wide variety of essential items," and is offering extended hours on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday until 7 p.m. Additionally, the Food Pantry reinstated the very popular Fresh Produce Distribution every Wednesday, providing students with many nutritious options.
The Hostos Food Pantry provides healthy food to all students (CUNY students have access to all CUNY food pantries) and invites students to choose the foods appropriate to their household's needs. Food is an essential need and on-campus access helps students stay focused on coursework and to persist, graduate and sustain progress towards their academic and career growth. For more information about the Food Pantry and other food resources available at Hostos, please contact Madeline Cruz at mcruz@hostos.cuny.edu.
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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.
| | OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS | | |
Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.
NYC Housing Connect – Affordable Housing Lotteries
The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and Housing Development Corporation (HDC) create affordable housing opportunities for many household income levels and sizes. The buildings are privately owned but HPD and HDC provide monitoring and oversight.
NYC Housing Connect is the portal to find and apply for these affordable rental and homeownership opportunities across the five boroughs. Click here to see current lottery listings available in the Bronx and around the city.
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Visit NYC Housing Connect to register, sign up for email alerts, access a list of frequently asked questions, and find and apply for affordable housing opportunities. Find out more about Housing Connect and how to submit an affordable housing application on their About page.
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| OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY | | |
Submitted by Chief Diversity Officer Philip Oliveri, Esq.
Transgender Day of Remembrance
On November 20, we observe Transgender Day of Remembrance — a somber occasion to honor those who have lost their lives to anti-transgender violence, recognize those who have survived all forms of anti-transgender violence, and to raise awareness about the harassment, discrimination, and violence that transgender people continue to experience. Hostos reiterates its commitment to promoting safety and inclusion for transgender individuals as we continue to improve lives and enrich communities as an educational agent for change. It is important to treat one other with dignity and respect (including using each individual’s personal pronoun of choice), no matter your personal beliefs, and to promote a sense of belonging, acceptance and inclusivity.
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Submitted by Dean Ana I. García Reyes
Our Partners Are Wonderful
Thank you to all our community partners for welcoming Hostos into your spaces and for giving us the opportunity to continue strengthening our shared work.
We extend warm congratulations to NMIC Executive Director and Hostos Community Advisory Council (CAC) member María Lizardo for a successful and fully attended Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation Gala on October 30. It was a powerful gathering of alumni, elected officials, educators, and national leaders committed to community advancement.
Our gratitude also goes to the team behind the Youth Summit of Latinos Destinados a Triunfar, hosted by the El Niño de La Caridad Foundation. Congratulations to Dr. Denise Nuñez and her board for convening an event that surpassed expectations, and to Dr. Juan Tapia Mendoza, Hostos CAC member, for sharing an inspiring presentation with attendees.
Thank you once again to our community friends and partners for inviting Hostos to be part of your events and ongoing efforts. Your collaboration continues to uplift and energize our mission.
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Submitted by Interim Provost and VP Andrea Fabrizio, Ph.D.
Celebrating Excellence During National Radiologic Technology Week
Submitted by Professor Manuel Livingston
The Hostos Radiologic Technology Department proudly celebrates National Radiologic Technology Week, a time to honor the vital contributions of medical imaging and radiologic technologists who play a crucial role in patient care and safety.
This year, we are especially proud to recognize two outstanding senior students who embody the compassion, professionalism, and excellence that define our program: Ms. Shanee Jackson and Ms. Shenell Reid.
Recently, the department received a heartfelt letter from a patient — a former nurse — who praised Shanee and Shenell for their professionalism, kindness, and the exceptional care they provided. The patient shared how respected and comforted she felt under their care, a testament to the students’ commitment to patient-centered practice.
Ms. Shanee Jackson shared her deep passion for the field, stating:
“I began my healthcare journey seven years ago as a Patient Care Associate supporting oncology patients, which strengthened my passion for helping others. Radiography allows me to continue making a meaningful impact while combining compassionate care with technical skill. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support patients during vulnerable moments and continue growing in this field every day.”
Ms. Shenell Reid spoke about the values that guide her approach to patient care:
“Growing up my parents taught me the importance of kindness and empathy, and I carry those values into my patient care every day. Before starting the radiologic technology program, I worked in various customer service and patient care roles, where I learned how meaningful genuine compassion can be. I take pride in treating each patient with respect and empathy, recognizing that they are more than just patients. They are someone’s loved one. I chose radiologic technology because I am fascinated by how radiologic imaging can reveal what’s happening inside the body and guide patient care. At the same time, I hope to leave a positive impact on the patients I encounter, no matter how small.”
These students exemplify compassion, humility, patience, and clinical excellence, values that reflect the very heart of the Hostos community.
Let us all join together in giving a huge round of applause to Hostos Radiologic Technology students Shanee Jackson and Shenell Reid for their remarkable dedication and humanitarian spirit in the clinical field.
Congratulations, Shanee and Shenell! You make Hostos proud.
Another Successful Industry Summit
The President’s Office in collaboration with the Office of Academic Affairs and Continuing Education and Workforce Development hosted another wonderful Industry Summit on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Focused on the digital design and animation degree and arts administration option for the AA in liberal arts and sciences degree, our Hostos community of faculty, staff, and students was joined by community partners, employers, and senior college colleagues.
Community Advisory Council Chairman Elias Alcántara moderated the Summit while President Cocco De Filippis brought greetings. Muralist and designer Adam Hernandez from AHernandez Art provided an inspirational keynote. Hostos alumni presented at the Summit as well. They included Earmark Scholar Tiffany Wilson continuing her studies in art administration at Queens College, and Keyla Rodriguez continuing her studies in marketing and interning with the Heidi Latsky Dance studio at Purchase College. Alumni also included a few who are working in the design industry including Jalen Barr, Art Director at Comcast and Alan Pierre-Louis, Teaching Artist at DreamYard. Presenting employers and partners represented The Studio, DreamYard, JP Morgan Chase, ABC News and Pixel Collective NYC, Museum of NYC, Bronx Children’s Museum and Jazz Foundation. For the first time, musicians from the Jazz Foundation played during breakfast; additionally as an interlude between speakers and panels, and gave a performance of three full songs to an enthusiastic audience at the end of the Summit. Audience members included senior college representatives from City College of New York, Queens College, Parson’s and New School.
The Summit serves as a unique and valuable opportunity for faculty to re-think and critically examine degree curriculum and skills preparation in context of future studies pathways to senior colleges and employer expectations of graduates and young professionals entering design and art administration fields. This tradition of hosting a Summit each semester and providing these critical engagement opportunities for the college not only speaks to the support our senior level administrators have for our faculty to design responsive and in demand curriculum and skills development, but also serves to promote and expand important partnerships that the college has with industry, employers, and senior and graduate educational institutions. The Spring 2026 Industry Summit promises to be equally invigorating!
| | STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM) | | |
Submitted by VP Althea Sterling, Ed.D.
Children’s Center
Hostos Families Co-Create Digital Media for Children in “Alma in the Bronx” Project
Submitted by Professor Mariana Díaz
This fall, the Hostos Children’s Center and Behavioral and Social Sciences Department teamed up for Alma in the Bronx, a community project led by Dr. Mariana Díaz and supported by the Hostos IDEAS Grant. Inspired by Alma’s Way—the PBS KIDS series created by Bronx-born Sonia Manzano—the project invites Hostos student-parents to explore how the show reflects Bronx life and to co-create ideas for new Alma’s Way digital games.
During four lively sessions, parents of children ages 3–5 shared stories, discussed representation in children’s media, and brainstormed game ideas celebrating creativity, community, and cultural pride. “I love that Alma’s Way shows a community that looks and feels like ours,” shared one participant. “It’s nice to see the Bronx in a positive light—colorful, kind, and full of pride.”
Their feedback is being shared directly with Fred Rogers Productions, whose digital producer attended sessions to see the collaboration in action. “It’s inspiring to see the community shaping authentic media for children,” said Dr. Díaz. Through Alma in the Bronx, Hostos continues to bridge education, research, and community—ensuring Bronx families help define the stories their children see and play.
CUNY EDGE
Career Closet Exclusively for CUNY EDGE Students!
Look the Part and Make a Strong Start!
The CUNY EDGE program has partnered with MyCareerCloset to help CUNY EDGE members step confidently into their professional journey. As a CUNY EDGE student, you’re eligible to receive a one-time voucher code, with your advisor’s approval, to access high-quality professional clothing at no cost. You can borrow your selected professional clothing for 30 days, delivered directly to our CUNY EDGE office, helping you build a confident, career-ready look!
Services Include:
- Inclusive sizing and styles tailored to your unique look
- Premium designer brands – no fast fashion
- Virtual styling support from experienced professionals
- Rent up to six premium pieces per box
- All genders welcome and celebrated
CUNY EDGE Students should contact their CUNY EDGE Advisor or visit our Office in Room A-334 for more information.
Student Leadership
Level Up Your Leadership This November. Upcoming Leadership Workshops!
Looking to boost your confidence, communication, and career skills? Don't miss out on opportunities to enhance your leadership, speak with confidence, and manage your time and energy effectively.
Title: TODAY! You Can't Pour From an Empty Cup w/ Christina Waszak
Date | Time: November 14 | 3 - 4 PM
Location: C-390
Description: Explore how self-awareness and self-care can help you lead others effectively by first taking care of yourself.
Title: Unlock The Power of Perspective w/ Arel Moodie
Date | Time: TBD | 3 - 4 PM
Location: C-390
Description: Learn how to transform challenges into opportunities with a shift in perspective.
Title: Leadership: Leading with Presence, Clarity and Awareness w/ Yunerys Liriano
Date | Time: December 12 | 3 - 4 PM
Location: C-390
Description: Discover the importance of self-leadership and how mindful leadership builds stronger, more collaborative teams.
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| ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM) | | |
Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne
Health Benefits Program Open Enrollment
As a friendly reminder, please be advised that the annual health benefits open enrollment period is taking place from November 1, 2025, through November 30, 2025. Changes made during the open enrollment will take effect on January 1, 2026.
During the transfer period, you may:
- Transfer health insurance plans
- Add or Drop coverage and/or optional rider
- Add or Drop dependents
Employees who do NOT wish to make any changes to their current plan do NOT need to do anything.
Notable Changes: Employees who currently have GHI CBP Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield will automatically be transferred to a new health plan NYCE PPO (which is replacing GHI/CBP) effective January 1, 2026. The new plan provides an expanded network of providers without increases in cost. You will receive a new ID card and welcome kit before January 1, 2026. If you would like to move to a different plan instead of being automatically transferred to NYCE PPO, you may do so during the Open Enrollment Period from Nov. 1-Nov. 30, 2025.
If you are considering making changes to your health benefits plan/options, please click on the links below for more information about your plan options and current plan rates:
Benefits Open Enrollment 2025 – The City University of New York (cuny.edu)
Employee Health Plan Rates 2026
To make changes, please complete a health-benefits-application.pdf (nyc.gov). Please note that if you are a CUNY-PSC member and you are making changes to your health benefits, you are also required to complete the PSC-CUNY Change of Status Form.
If you are adding a dependent, please review the list of Dependent Verification Documents for acceptable documents. Dependents will NOT be added without the required documentation.
Buy-Out Waiver Program
Employees waiving coverage in the NYC Health Benefits Program because they have private insurance may be eligible to enroll in the Buy-Out Waiver program. For more detailed information, go to: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/olr/fsa/fsa-msc-buy-out-waiver-home.page.
To enroll in the Buy-Out Program, you must complete BOTH a health-benefits-application.pdf (nyc.gov) and a 2026-msc-buyout-waiver-form.pdf (nyc.gov). If you are already enrolled and you wish to continue with the program, you do NOT need to take any action. Your enrollment will continue automatically.
All required forms must be completed and returned to Ariadne Condos via email at ACondos@hostos.cuny.edu or via fax at 347-710-2952, no later than Friday, November 28, 2025. Please remember to password-protect any documents with sensitive information.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Deadline for Enrollment TODAY!
The open enrollment period for the Flexible Spending Program is now through today, November 14, 2025. For additional information about the program, please go to: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/olr/fsa/fsahome.page.
Enrollment in the FSA program is not automatic from year to year. You MUST re-enroll every year.
To enroll, please complete the 2026 FSA Enrollment Change Form and go to https://www1.nyc.gov/site/olr/fsa/fsahome.page for instructions on how to submit the form.
The Transfer Period is the only time to make changes in your health plan without a qualifying event.
The open enrollment forms can be accessed at this link.
Please reach out to HR Benefits Manager, Ariadne Condos at ACondos@hostos.cuny.edu for assistance with any questions.
| | CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD) | | |
Submitted by VP Evelyn Fernández-Ketcham, Ph.D., LCSW
Calling on Volunteers
Since 2018 Hostos has been a meal distribution center in collaboration with God's Love We Deliver on Thanksgiving Day. Volunteer to help deliver 12,000 festive Thanksgiving meals and gifts to clients living with severe and chronic illnesses.
On Thursday, November 27, 2025, volunteer drivers are needed to pick up meals from Hostos and deliver them to 6-8 households in the Bronx on Thanksgiving morning.
Please sign up to join this wonderful effort! Two shifts are available; more details can be found on the signup pages.
Thanksgiving Volunteer Driver: Hostos Community College 9:30am shift (Bronx)
Thanksgiving Volunteer Driver: Hostos Community College 10:00am shift (Bronx)
Attend one or all CEWD History of Latin Jazz and Latin Music Seminars
Taught by Joe Conzo Sr., a noted music historian, producer, and author of “Mambo Diablo: My Journey with Tito Puente.” During this seminar, participants will learn about the impact of Latin music pioneers and artists, as well as how this musical genre has evolved since the 1930s. Periodically, special guests are invited to speak with students.
The seminar will meet here from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. via Zoom on Saturdays:
November 15
November 22
December 6
December 13
Announcement
The CEWD Fall 2025 Catalog is available. Please click here, to browse our online catalog.
CEWD Information Sessions
To learn more about CEWD’s program offerings, attend one of our upcoming Information Sessions:
Wednesday, Dec. 10, 12:30 PM (Virtual)
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 6 PM (In-Person)
Saturday, Jan. 10, 11 AM (Virtual)
To register for a session, visit https://tinyurl.com/HostosCEWD.
| | INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA) | | |
Submitted by VP Colette Atkins
CUNYTuesday Site is Live!
The giving page for CUNYTuesday is live! You can set up your recurring gift at Hostos' CUNYTuesday page. Every gift supports emergency scholarships and vital student services, like the Food Pantry at Hostos. Be a part of the generous community that keeps these critical student services accessible. If you have questions about ways to allocate your gift, contact Development Officer Idelsa Méndez at imendez@hostos.cuny.edu.Thank you for supporting Hostos this giving season!
Call for Submission to the Hostos Alumni Newsletter
We are excited to announce the launch of the very first Hostos Community College Alumni Newsletter, debuting in January 2026 and published every three months! This initiative will not only highlight important news and updates—it will also feature the voices, stories, and creativity of our incredible alumni community.
We invite you to become a collaborator by submitting original content on topics that matter most to you and our community. To get started, simply complete our submission form and upload your content for review. You will also have the option to include a profile picture to be featured alongside your work.
Let's make this newsletter a powerful reflection of the diversity, talent, and impact of Hostos alumni. Together, we will continue to inspire, inform, and strengthen the Hostos legacy.
Thank you for Singing Along!
The first Hostos Alumni Karaoke Night was a huge success! Thank you to all who came and sang your hearts out to promote Caiman pride and scholarship opportunities for the next generation of Hostos alums. Check out the Hostos Alumni page on LinkedIn for pictures and stay tuned for future events!
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Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Hostos Community
Make sure to check our website and follow us on social media for all updates: Instagram (@hostoscollege), Facebook (HostosCC), and LinkedIn (CUNY Hostos Community College).
Nominations Open for Manos a la Obra / All-Hands-on-Deck Awards!
If you wish to nominate a well-deserving member of the Hostos family to receive a Manos a la Obra / All-Hands-on-Deck Award, please send a nomination to dkreymer@hostos.cuny.edu and mstmarthe@hostos.cuny.edu by Friday, November 21. The recipients will be honored at our End-of-Semester All-College Meeting on Thursday, December 11.
Winter Coat Collection Initiative is Accepting Donations!
In the spirit of our mission, Dr. Charles Drago, Dr. Jacqueline DiSanto, and SGA President Nichelle Hemphill and Xyannie De La Rosa R.N, are currently accepting gently used winter coats, snowsuits, hats, and gloves ranging from 3 months to 5 years old in size. If you are interested in donating, you can find clearly labeled drop boxes located in the Early Childhood Education room (A107), the SGA President's office (room C534), and the College Children’s Center (Room 109A). The drop-off times are from 9 AM to 5 PM. Once collected, the coats will be sorted by size and provided to students who need their children to keep warm in the winter months. We kindly request that any donations be in gently used condition. Diapers are also needed, all sizes. and can also be dropped off in the boxes listed above.
Please note that collection drop boxes will be placed from Monday, October 20, 2025, to November 14, 2025. If you have any questions, please contact Charlie Drago at 718-518-4114 or the SGA President at 626-719-6151.
Kudos to Professor Helen Chang!
Helen Chang, Political Science Professor, participated in the “CUNY Forum” show on CUNY TV. The episode examines the historic election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor, framing it as a generational and political shift driven by affordability concerns and grassroots organizing. Professor Chang was joined by Ruth Messinger, former Manhattan Borough President; Chris Policano, Director of External Relations, School of Labor and Urban Studies, CUNY; and Harry Siegel, Editor, TheCITY.nyc. Watch the episode here.
Hostos Alumna and NextGen Public Health Scholar Receives Special Honor
Hostos alumna, Hawa Abraham ’23, a member of the first cohort selected to participate in the NextGen Public Health Scholars 2+2+2 Program, conducted in partnership with Columbia University, was inducted into the Columbia’s School of General Studies Honor Society at a special ceremony held on October 29, 2025. This is an incredible honor bestowed upon students in their junior/senior year who have achieved exceptional academic excellence. At the induction ceremony, Hawa was presented with a certificate of recognition and celebrated along with her fellow peers who also received this distinction. Hawa is set to graduate this fall from the Columbia School of General Studies and we are extremely proud of her accomplishments. We wish her continued success as she graduates and embarks on her graduate studies at the Mailman School of Public Health in 2026!
Congratulations to Hostos ASAP!
The Brightway Education Foundation has made a three-year commitment of $1M to CUNY ASAP, providing enhanced financial support to 220 CUNY ASAP student parents across four community colleges (BMCC, BCC, Hostos and LaGuardia). This inaugural investment to CUNY ASAP builds on a similar initiative launched at SUNY, providing fast and flexible cash assistance, including off-campus childcare payments, to a fixed cohort of students who joined ASAP in fall 2025. These funds – $50K each semester for the next three years – are available to students, further enhancing ASAP’s robust personalized academic and financial supports to ensure students maintain full time enrollment and stay on track to graduation within three years.
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Free Services for the Community
Hostos Offers Free Preventive Dental Hygiene Services to the Public
The Dental Hygiene Patient Care Facility at Hostos Community College is a teaching unit that provides high-quality dental care, primarily cleanings and dental x-rays, to the community, while adhering to the most current sterilization techniques. Several appointments will be needed and each may last three hours at a time.
For more information and scheduling, call 718-319-7943.
The appointment schedule is as follows:
Mondays: 9 AM - 1 PM and 2 - 6 PM
Wednesdays: 8 AM - 12 PM and 2:30 - 6:30 PM
Fridays: 9 AM - 1 PM and 2 - 6 PM
Location: Hostos Dental Hygiene Patient Care Facility
500 Grand Concourse, Bronx NY 10451
B-Building
Note: The clinic does not provide restorative dental work such as fillings, implants, etc.
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Don’t miss these upcoming matchups in the Gymnasium!
Basketball Double Header
Date | Time: Tuesday, November 18 | 6 PM & 8 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Men’s & Women’s Basketball vs LaGuardia Community College
Men’s Basketball Game
Date | Time: Tuesday, December 6 | 2 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Men’s Basketball vs Sullivan Community College
Basketball Double Header
Date | Time: Tuesday, December 11 | 6 PM & 8 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Men’s & Women’s Basketball vs Nassau Community College
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Title: Danza Fiesta – Annual South Bronx Folk Festival
Date | Time: Saturday, November 15 | 3 PM
Location: Main Theater
Description: A vibrant festival celebrating Puerto Rican and South Bronx folk traditions, featuring music, dance, and cultural performances in the heart of the community.
Title: Nourishing Conversations
Date | Time: Thursday, November 20 | 2:30 PM
Location: Hostos Art Gallery
Description: An engaging conversation and food demonstration featuring Chef Kelvin Fernández. A graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Chef Kelvin has been recognized as Best Chef in America by Forbes two years in a row. He has competed in several Food Network competitions and will join us to talk about his professional journey and prepare a healthy, low-prep, budget-friendly meal. Please RSVP here by November 13.
Title: Launch of 21st Edition of Hostos Review / Revista Hostosiana
Date | Time: Thursday, November 20 | 4 PM
Location: Zoom (link forthcoming)
Description: Join us for the launch of “Hostos Review / Revista Hostosiana” this year. Titled “Landscapes of Humor / Parajes del humor,” issue no. 21 is a bilingual collection of contemporary fiction, theatre, poetry, and chronicle deploying humor as a key tool for reflection and social critique in our times. The outstanding contributing authors write from the United States, Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
Title: November 2025: College-wide Senate Meeting
Date | Time: Thursday, November 20 | 3:30 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Title: Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date | Time: Thursday, December 4 | 2 PM
Location: C-building Lobby
Description: The Office of the President is pleased to invite you to our Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The holiday magic will unfold with a heartwarming program filled with music, joy, and camaraderie.
Title: Spanish Harlem Orchestra – “Salsa Navidad”
Date | Time: Saturday, December 6 | 8 PM
Location: Main Theater
Description: A festive holiday salsa concert featuring beloved classics and new music. Led by this Grammy-winning ensemble, the show bridges traditional and contemporary sounds.
Title: Fall 2025 Peace & Poetry
Date | Time: Tuesday, December 9 | 1 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Description: The Office of the President and the Writing Center are delighted to announce an afternoon of Peace & Poetry that will provide an opportunity for our very own Hostos poets — students, faculty, and staff — to come together to share their favorite poem or an original creation. For the past two years, the Peace & Poetry event has generated great joy amidst dignified reflection as our community joins together in sharing poems that resonate with our lived experiences, and our hopes and dreams for the future.
Fall 2025 End of Semester All College Meeting
Date | Time: Thursday, December 11 | 2:30 – 5 PM
Location: Repertory Theater
Description: Come together as we reflect on the state of our College with insights from senior leadership. During this special gathering, we’ll also celebrate members of our community who embody the spirit of Hostos — those who have served with grace, dedication, and resilience — through the Manos a la Obra / All-Hands-on-Deck Awards. And to top it all off, enjoy a talent show showcasing the creativity and spirit of our community! If you wish to nominate a well-deserving member of the Hostos family to receive a Manos a la Obra / All-Hands-on-Deck Award, please send a nomination to dkreymer@hostos.cuny.edu and mstmarthe@hostos.cuny.edu by Friday, November 21.
Title: December 2025: College-wide Senate Meeting
Date | Time: Thursday, December 20 | 3:30 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Title: Papo Vázquez – “Holiday Jazz & Latin Jazz Parranda”
Date | Time: Sunday, December 21 | 3 PM
Location: Main Theater
Description: Grammy-nominated and NEA Master Artist Papo Vázquez celebrates the holiday season with parranda music and Latin jazz–influenced holiday songs — a warm, inclusive celebration perfect for families.
| | 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.
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