Friday, October 18, 2024 | Vol. 9, No. 8

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS

My Dear Colleagues and Students,

These are just a few words to say thank you and express my sincere appreciation to many colleagues and students for the good work in organizing and participating in events to celebrate our diversity and culture these past few weeks. I also would like to extend good wishes as we enter midterm season.

I note that life is thriving at Hostos with so many of our students and colleagues engaged in social and academic interactions throughout the campus. As autumn leaves begin to turn, we rejoice in having reached this level of beauty and maturity as we prepare for the peace the holidays at the end of the semester will bring us all.

Mil gracias y bendiciones, 

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.

President

POEM

“Kindness”

By Naomi Shihab Nye

Before you know what kindness really is

you must lose things,

feel the future dissolve in a moment

like salt in a weakened broth.

What you held in your hand,

what you counted and carefully saved,

all this must go so you know

how desolate the landscape can be

between the regions of kindness.

How you ride and ride

thinking the bus will never stop,

the passengers eating maize and chicken

will stare out the window forever.

Before you learn the tender gravity of kindness

you must travel where the Indian in a white poncho

lies dead by the side of the road.

You must see how this could be you,

how he too was someone

who journeyed through the night with plans

and the simple breath that kept him alive.



Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside,

you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing.

You must wake up with sorrow.

You must speak to it till your voice

catches the thread of all sorrows

and you see the size of the cloth.

Then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore,

only kindness that ties your shoes

and sends you out into the day to gaze at bread,

only kindness that raises its head

from the crowd of the world to say

It is I you have been looking for,

and then goes with you everywhere

like a shadow or a friend.

From Words Under the Words: Selected Poems. © 1995 by Naomi Shihab Nye. Reprinted with the permission of the author.

MESSAGE FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) PRESIDENT DAINMA MARTÍNEZ

It’s Getting Chilly!

The air is filled with excitement and a hint of spooky fun! The leaves are turning, the days are becoming shorter, and Halloween is approaching with festive charm. While we embrace the thrills and chills of the season, let’s not lose sight of our goals. Like a team of fearless adventurers, we’re ready to tackle the challenges of midterms and projects head-on, determined to conquer them all. Remember, your SGA is here to light the way through this semester’s twists and turns. Let’s make this October one to remember, both inside and outside the classroom!

The SGA is excited to announce the launch of the Mother Clothing Drive, aimed at providing essential baby clothing for mothers. We are collecting gently used or new baby clothes for children from 0-3 months to 4T in size. These donations will go directly to the Hostos families who need extra support during these critical early months of motherhood. This drive is an opportunity for our campus community to come together and show solidarity with parents who may be facing financial hardships. Items like onesies, pajamas, socks, bibs, and warm clothing are especially welcome. Every donation makes a difference, no matter how small. This collaboration is spearheaded by Dr. Charles Drago (Allied Health Chair), Dr. Jacqueline DiSanto (Education Chair), and us at the SGA. If you want to donate, you can find clearly labeled drop boxes in Allied Health, room A-307; Early Childhood Education, room A-107; and the SGA President's office, room C-534. The drop-off times are from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.  

Just a reminder, there are plenty of exciting events happening on campus this month to celebrate the spooky season and to give out resources! Keep an eye out for flyers with details about the SGA’s booth trick-or-treat day, and don't miss the various club flyers around campus. These flyers will keep you updated on the events happening throughout the month. 

As we embrace the excitement of October, let’s remember that we can make this month genuinely impactful, both academically and personally. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, every event a chance to connect, and every act of kindness a step toward building a stronger community. Whether you’re pushing through midterms, lending a hand through our mother clothing drive, or simply enjoying the festive events, know that you are part of something bigger. Let’s keep supporting each other, celebrating, and making this semester one of achievement, connection, and growth. We’re in this together—let’s make every moment count!

Sincerely,

Dainma Martínez

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

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

Announcing the HRC Scholars Program

The Hostos Research Center (HRC) is pleased to announce the launch of a new initiative — the Hostos Research Center Scholars Program that aims to increase the participation of high-achieving Hostos students in mentored research experiences provided by Hostos faculty and CUNY Graduate Center (GC) students. The HRC Scholars Program seeks to engage students across all disciplines in research experiences that will support their academic growth, promote retention and graduation, and build career readiness skills. The HRC Scholars Program will provide selected students with a $5,000 stipend for engaging in up to 250 hours of research activities throughout the academic year and summer. The HRC Scholars Program will enroll up to 15 students in 2024-25.

The HRC is inviting Hostos faculty members across all disciplines who are conducting research and interested in mentoring one or two students this academic year to participate and help provide Hostos students with a new experiential learning opportunity. This will be a great way of providing financial support to students that you are mentoring and who may already be supporting your research. Faculty mentors will also receive a $1,000 stipend for mentoring a student for the academic year and part of the summer.

Students interested in becoming an HRC Scholar in 2024-25 are invited to apply. All majors are welcome to apply. Students are eligible if they are currently enrolled as a part-time/full-time student and have a minimum GPA of 2.7. 

Students and faculty interested in participating are invited to complete an online application. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all student slots are filled!

Hostos Research Center Scholars Student Application (use CUNYfirst login)

Hostos Research Center Scholars Faculty Application (use CUNYfirst login)

POLICY OF THE WEEK

Highlighting CUNY Policies You Should Know

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

Dear Hostos Employees,

Election day will be soon upon us. As per CUNY Policy, employees who are registered voters and who will be participating during election day will have up to 3 hours without loss of pay and without charge to leave balances either at the beginning or end of the work shift to allow time to vote if the following condition is met:

“The employee does not have four consecutive hours to vote, either from the opening of the polls to the beginning of their working shift or between the end of their working shift and the closing of the polls.”

If an employee is taking advantage of this benefit, he/she must follow the instructions below:

1. Employees must notify their manager/supervisor at least two working days before the Election Day (Tuesday, November 5)
2. Coordinate time off with your supervisor to minimize work disruptions
3. Enter time off for voting in your timekeeping records

Part-time employees are eligible under this policy if:

• They have a regular recurring schedule
• They are regularly scheduled to work on this particular Election Day

Thank you,

Eugene Sohn

OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.

Hostos and LaGuardia CC Joint Panel Discussion about 2024 Elections

Join me on October 23, at 1 p.m., as I participate in a panel discussion about the upcoming U.S. elections on world politics, “Where do We Go from Here? The Potential Global Ramifications of the 2024 U.S Elections.”

Other panelists will include:

• Dr. Helen Chang, Hostos Community College
• Professor Andreas Karras, LaGuardia Community College Lecturer
• Humayun Javed, NYU Master’s Student and Fulbright Scholar
• Moderator: Dr. Anja Vojvodic, Program Director of the Political Science Program and a Lecturer in the Social Science Department at LaGuardia Community College

We will discuss what is at stake nationally and internationally and the implications for the future of American foreign policy. Register here.

OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY

Submitted by Chief Diversity Officer, Title IX Coordinator, and 504/ADA Coordinator Philip Oliveri, Esq. 

Global Diversity Awareness Month

October is Global Diversity Awareness Month, a month to celebrate and increase awareness about the diversity of cultures and ethnicities at Hostos and the positive impact diversity has in our community. We recognize all the ways our different ethnicities, cultures, heritages, experiences, abilities, and other diverse attributes contribute to a more dynamic and innovative learning and working environment. October also recognizes the contributions and achievements of several ethnic groups, such as Italian-Americans, German-Americans, Polish-Americans, Filipino-Americans, and Hispanic-Americans, as each of the aforementioned groups celebrates their respective heritages during the month of October.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Submitted by Dean Ana I. García Reyes

Thank You, NAICA and Health and Wellness for a Wonderful Collaboration!

Hostos Community College capped off another successful Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month on October 15 with a Hispanic Heritage Celebration Breakfast and Panel hosted by the Neighborhood Association for Inter-Cultural Affairs (NAICA) in collaboration with the College’s Offices of the Dean for Community Relations and Health and Wellness. Read more here.

Community Relations Dean Interviewed for AARP’s Hispanic/Latino Heritage Publication

Dean Ana García Reyes was interviewed for the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) as part of a special publication celebrating Hispanic/Latino leaders. All the interviewees shared their views on Hispanic/Latino heritage, representation, and advocacy. Read the entire report here. 

NYC Educators Discussed Outcomes of Dominican Republic Study Abroad Program at Hostos

On Thursday, October 10, Hostos Community College welcomed the New York City educators who participated in the Professional Development and Study Abroad Summer Program in the Dominican Republic, designed over three decades ago by Dean García Reyes. Congressman Adriano Espaillat attended and recognized the participants of the Teacher Training Program for supporting Dominican students in New York. Read more here.

NEWS FROM THE DIVISIONS

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS (OAA)

Submitted by Provost and VP Shiang-Kwei Wang, Ph.D.

Supplemental Instruction Pilot in the Writing Center

The Writing Center (WC) began a Supplemental Instruction pilot program of writing workshops for targeted English freshman classes this Fall with great success. In the first five weeks of classes, we delivered ten workshops and four class visits to composition classes, reaching over 150 unique students. These workshops have been led by WC Coordinators Kyanna Pratt, Lauren Genao, and Maya Abdoussala, all Hostos alums, with brilliant pedagogical guidance from WC Faculty Advisors Profs. Amina Tajbhai and Tom Barber. We hypothesize that class visits and writing workshops will mobilize students to seek support to advance their academic goals and a sense of belonging to the College.

We also hosted "Learning to Soar: Success Strategies from WC Tutors," a panel luncheon for over twenty-five students, and a workshop on applying for Hostos scholarships in collaboration with the Scholarships Office and the Honors Program. Our robust programming is only possible because of continuing support from OAA, especially its Title V and Perkins grants.

 

Hostos Students Tour Bronx Criminal Court

Professor Amy Ramson, Public Policy and Law Unit

Professor Amy Ramson and her criminal justice students along with Professor Helen Chang, her American government students, and Professor Hector Soto's students toured Bronx Criminal Court on Thursday, October 10. Led by the Bronx District Attorney's Office, the tour provided a real-life experience of criminal justice system procedures that a defendant arrested in the Bronx undergoes from arrest to arraignment. 

The tour commenced with a talk by an NYPD detective in the District Attorney NYPD squad offices housed in the courthouse and included a viewing of their holding cell, which might hold defendants under extradition, etc. 

Next, the students visited the lineup and viewing rooms with the detective, who provided details about the lineup room, where a suspect is placed among a group of people whose general appearance resembles the suspect. Students learned about the viewing room, where, through a one-way vision glass partition, the witness to the crime views the lineup to determine if they recognize anyone as the perpetrator.

Afterward, the students saw the complaint room where the assistant district attorneys and other legal staff meet with victims and police officers to assess whether charges will be brought against a suspect or not. The tour ended in the arraignment courtroom where the defendant sees the judge for the first time, is officially charged, and finds out how (or if) he or she would be released pre-trial. 

Professor Ramson has been taking her students on tours of the criminal courthouse for about 25 years.

During the pandemic, they were able to join virtually. The tour allows students to see how theories and concepts learned in their criminal justice classes are applied in real legal scenarios, which deepens their understanding of the criminal justice system and helps them remember facts by associating them with actual events. In addition, the students learn about the different actors in the system and learn about potential careers. This experience helps to confirm many students' desires to enter the criminal justice field. 

Book Discussion for Professional Staff Managers

Elizabeth Wilson, Director of School-College Partnerships, was joined yesterday, Thursday, October 17, by co-author Jakada Imani and a group of professional managers around campus for a discussion about the book “Management in a Changing World: How to Manage for Equity, Sustainability, and Results.” The event was the first in a series designed to engage managers in reflective practice on managing teams through a Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (JDEI) lens. This project provides professional development to directors across divisions and also offers small group discussions on JDEI management topics. Managers will identify challenges and opportunities for growth within their roles. They will learn concrete management skills, specifically supervising through an equity lens, including how to fairly exercise power in an environment that spans racial, generational, gender, and other identity divides. This initiative has been made possible through an Educating for Diversity grant funded by Mackenzie Scott President's Initiatives.

Career Services Events

Title: Introduction to LinkedIn Workshop

Date | Time: Friday, October 18 | 1 PM and, in Spanish, on Friday, October 25 | 1 PM

Location: Zoom (English) and Zoom (Spanish) (register via links)

Description: Join us for an interactive LinkedIn workshop designed to help you optimize your profile, expand your network, and enhance your professional presence online. Whether you are just starting or looking to refine your existing profile, this session will provide practical tips and strategies to make the most out of LinkedIn. The workshop will be conducted via Zoom, ensuring that you can participate from the comfort of your own space. Do not miss this opportunity to elevate your LinkedIn game and connect with like-minded peers seeking professional growth! Register in advance for this meeting. 

Title: Introduction to Handshake Workshop

Date | Time: Wednesday, October 23 | 11 AM and Tuesday, October 29 | 11 AM

Location: D-210 and on Tuesday, October 29 via Zoom (register via link)

Description: Join us for an engaging, in-person workshop designed to introduce you to Handshake, the platform used by Career Services to connect you with employers. This workshop, held in the Career Services Computer Lab, will guide you through the many benefits of using Handshake, including personalized job recommendations, networking opportunities with top employers, and access to exclusive internships and job postings. During the session, you'll learn how to easily log in to Handshake and create a compelling profile that showcases your skills, experiences, and career aspirations. Whether you're just starting your career journey or looking to take the next step, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to set yourself up for success.

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM)

Submitted by Interim Vice President Althea Sterling, Ed.D.

Message from IVP of SDEM

Dear Students,

Congratulations on reaching the halfway point of the semester! Well done! Midterms are approaching, and remember that this is your opportunity to reflect on what you've learned, assess your progress, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a successful end to the semester.

As you prepare for your midterms, utilize available resources, such as tutoring at the HALC and the Writing Center. Reach out to your Academic Advisors and Student Success Coaches, and do not hesitate to check in with your professors; they are here to support you. Additional support is also available from units in SDEM, such as Counseling Services, Health and Wellness, and our One Stop program. 

Take a moment, take a deep breath, stay organized, and remember to pace yourself. Prioritize self-care by getting enough rest and eating well. More importantly, believe in your abilities — you've got this! You are capable of achieving great things, and we believe in you. Keep pushing forward; soon enough, you will look back proudly on how far you have come.

As you prepare for your midterms, know you have our full support. We believe in your potential and are confident in your abilities. 

Best wishes,

Dr. Althea Sterling

Attention!

Enrollment Opens on Monday, October 23, for Winter and Spring 2025!

If you need assistance enrolling, contact your Coach/Advisor and schedule a meeting.

Admissions and Recruitment

Hostos Community College Open House: Engage, Connect, and Inspire!

Mark your calendars! The Hostos Community College Autumn Open House event is just around the corner, and we're counting on your expertise and enthusiasm to make it a resounding success. Whether you're a seasoned presenter, a panel discussion pro, or love engaging with our community, your role is crucial in helping to convert prospective students into spring/fall 2025 enrolled students.

We are looking for faculty and administrators to be:

1. Presenters: Share your insights, research, or innovative practices with prospective students and their families. We’re looking for engaging sessions that highlight what makes Hostos unique.
2. Panelists: This is your chance to join lively discussions on student success, career pathways, and community impact. Your firsthand experiences are not just valuable; they're essential!
3. Participate in Resource Fair: Set up an information booth to showcase your department, programs, or initiatives. Connect directly with curious students and their families and answer their questions.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, October 26 

Time: 10 AM – 1 PM

Location: Hostos Community College, East Academic Complex, Room C-391

Let’s come together to celebrate our vibrant community, inspire future students, and showcase the incredible work happening at Hostos.

To confirm your participation at the Autumn Open House, go here. 

Contact: Travis Morgan, Assistant Director of Admissions & Recruitment, at tmorgan@hostos.cuny.edu. 

ARC Services

ARC works with faculty and external resources to provide appropriate and effective academic adjustments to students. Below are some examples of academic adjustments/resources that registered students may receive based on their individual needs. Please keep them in mind! 

• Testing Adjustments may include extra time, alternate testing location, use of a reader and scribe, use of Assistive Technology, enlarged print, or alternate text format exams.
• Private accessible computer lab access.
• Livescribe recording smartpen.
• Magnifying devices.
• Laptop use in class.
• Career guidance and skills training for job search and retention.
• Reading Software (Kurzweil, Zoom Text, Read and Write Gold, JAWS, Dragon).
• Large print or other alternate text formats.
• Sign language interpreter.
• Other academic accommodations specific to student disability.

Student Success Coaching Unit

Connect with me, your Student Success Coach!

Hello Hostos Student,

I hope that your semester is going well! Here are a few helpful updates and reminders for a successful Fall 2024 term:

1. You can always make a future appointment with your Student Success Coach by logging into Navigate. If you are unable to make an appointment through Navigate, please contact the front desk at 718-664-2560 or by email at sscu@hostos.cuny.edu for assistance.

2. SSCU is offering late night hours every Wednesday from 5 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. on Zoom through December 18. During late night hours, you will be able to speak to a Student Success Coach who can answer general questions or any in-depth advisement questions.

a. Virtually: Join here: Meeting ID: 837 0090 4810 Passcode: 183421

3. Follow up on the status of your financial aid award by contacting the Office of Financial Aid here.

4. For important dates and deadlines, please open and review the Fall 2024 Academic Calendar here.

5. Please be advised that if Fall 2024 is your last semester, then the deadline to apply for graduation is Tuesday, November 5.

a. For detailed instructions on how to apply for graduation, go here to watch a short video. Please watch the Graduation-To-Do list video here for additional guidance and resources for students who are ready to graduate.

6. Follow SSCU on Instagram for important updates by clicking here and for more instructional videos please visit the SSCU YouTube channel here.

7. The links to additional resources at Hostos are listed below:

a. If you need help with writing assignments and/or tutoring, please contact the Writing Center here or the HALC Center here.

b. For more information on the food pantry, housing assistance and other resources, please contact the One Stop Center here.

c. If you need help with personal or family issues, then you can make an appointment with the Counseling Center here.

I look forward to speaking with you throughout the semester.

Regards,

Your Success Coach

SSCU: A Q&A with a Hostos Alumna!

Sariani Genao majored in Business Management and graduated in Fall 2023. She’s looking to go into Data Analytics and currently serves as an Academic Recovery Administrative Assistant for us at the SSCU. Read about what she has to say about her experience at Hostos.

What brought you to Hostos? 

My mom and my sister both attended Hostos. I gave birth to my daughter over two years ago, and my sister encouraged me to think about my career and education. I weighed all my options and decided that Hostos was the best choice for me.

What was your experience at Hostos? 

When I was five years old, my mom was pursuing her degree at Hostos and placed me in the daycare at Hostos. When my daughter was born, I followed in my mom’s footsteps, and with the transfer credits I had, I completed my degree at Hostos in one year. The Hostos Children’s Center helped me by caring for my daughter while I studied.

How did Hostos transform you? 

I am introverted and during my time at Hostos, I pushed myself to network and socialize. I went to the Hostos Academic Learning Center and the Writing Center often to study and connect with my peers and staff.

What is your role at SSCU? 

I am the Administrative Assistant for Academic Recovery, where we focus on outreach to students on probation or with GPAs below 2.0, the minimum required to graduate.

I work with Student Success Coaches Sheryce Woolery-Balgobin and Emani Palma and six peer mentors to help students succeed at Hostos. We have workshops for students on time management and study skills. We also have a “Color with Your Peer Mentors” event, where students get to know their peer mentors and take a break from studying with coloring.

I am passionate about my work with these students and letting them know we are here for them from a place of support and concern, that we care about them and want to help them become better academically and socially.

Scholarship Office

Unlock Your Future: Scholarship Opportunities Await!

Hostos Community College’s internal scholarships are open, with 17 student opportunities! Don’t miss your chance to secure funding that can help make your educational journey smoother.

Why Apply?

These scholarships can significantly lighten your financial burden and get new opportunities. Whether you’re looking to support your studies, reduce your expenses, or simply make college life a bit easier, there’s something here for everyone.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step? Visit Hostos Scholarships to explore and apply. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please contact Marina Esquilin, Scholarship Coordinator, at 718-518-4166 or email mesquilin@hostos.cuny.edu. 

Financial Aid Office

Have you applied for FAFSA? TAP?

Students enrolling in the Fall of 2024 can still apply for TAP by filling out the FAFSA. Once submitted, New York State residents attending NYS campuses can link directly to the TAP application. Our financial aid team is here to guide you through the application process.

For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office at 718-518-6555.

Counseling Center

Join the Counseling Center for the following events!

Mood & Music: Let’s Talk About It

Date | Time: Wednesday, October 23 | 3 - 5 PM

Location: FDR Room (C-312)

Description: An interactive discussion focused on removing the stigma surrounding depression and highlighting the benefits of using music intentionally to process, cope, and shift emotions in observation of Depression Awareness Month. 

Speed Dating: The Stress Reduction Edition

Date | Time: Thursday, November 14 | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Location: Gym

Description: Experience a unique twist on speed dating! Instead of meeting new people, you'll be introduced to various stress reduction techniques in a fun, immersive 15-minute format. Discover healthy ways to relieve stress while connecting with your peers.

We hope to see you there!

Health and Wellness

One Stop Program Services and Resources

Get the Support You Need!

We offer a range of services to assist you with HRA Government Benefits enrollment, including:

• SNAP/Food Stamps: Application, recertification, and periodic reports
• Cash Assistance: Application and recertification
• One Shot Deal: Application for eviction prevention
• Child Care Voucher
• Fair Fares: Discounted transit fare
• Food Pantry
• Grab & Go Snacks
• Financial Literacy Programs
• Legal Services
• Health Insurance Navigators

If you need assistance, please reach out to Madeline Cruz, Coordinator, at 718-518-4141, 718-319-7982, or 929-330-5406. You can also email her at mcruz@hostos.cuny.edu. 

We’re here to help!

Transfer Services

Discover your path in Health Care with Lehman College!

Date | Time: October 17 and 23 | 11 AM

Location: FDR Room (C-312)

Description: Are you interested in pursuing a Health Care major at Lehman College? Join us for an opportunity to speak with a Lehman advisor about our health programs, including Nursing, Health Education, Public Health, and more!

Snacks ‘N’ Aps! with Transfer Services, all from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Faculty Dining Room (FDR, C-312)

October 31

November 21 

December 12 

Transfer Lab Hours

Monday & Friday | D-101| 9:30 AM - 5 PM

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday | C-590 | 10 AM - 3 PM

Transfer Tabling 

Every Tuesday | A-Atrium | 1 - 4 PM

Transfer Talk

Every Tuesday | C-512A | 2 - 3 PM

Walk-in Hours

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays | C-590 | 10 AM - 3 PM

Wednesdays | D-101A | 10 AM - 5 PM

Thursdays | D-101A | 10 AM - 1 PM

Thursdays | D-101A and VIRTUAL | 10 AM - 1 PM

Follow Transfer Services on Instagram for updates on events (@hostostransferservices). 

POEMS FOR THE COMMUNITY

“‘Hope’ is the thing with feathers”

By Emily Dickinson

“Hope” is the thing with feathers -

That perches in the soul -

And sings the tune without the words -

And never stops - at all -

And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard -

And sore must be the storm -

That could abash the little Bird

That kept so many warm -

I’ve heard it in the chillest land -

And on the strangest Sea -

Yet - never - in Extremity,

It asked a crumb - of me.

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE (ADM)

Submitted by SVP Esther Rodríguez-Chardavoyne

Flexible Spending Program Open Enrollment for Plan Year 2025

The Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Program Open Enrollment for the 2025 plan year is open now through November 8, 2024. Changes made during the open enrollment period will take effect on January 1, 2025.

FSA Program

The FSA Program consists of the following programs:

• Dependent Care Assistance Program (DeCAP): Allows employees to pay for eligible dependent care expenses on a pre-tax basis.
• Health Care Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA) Program: Allows employees to pay for eligible out of pocket health care expenses on a pre-tax basis, with deductions taken directly from their salary.
• MSC Health Benefits Buy Out Waiver: Program enables eligible employees who have non-City group health benefits to waive their City health benefits in return for an annual cash incentive payment.
• MSC Premium Conversion Program: Enables eligible employees to pay for their health plan premium deductions on a before-tax basis, thereby reducing their gross income for tax purposes.
• These programs do not provide additional health coverage.
• Part-time Instructional members are not eligible to participate in these programs.
• For more information about these programs and to enroll, please visit this page.

Note that enrollment in the FSA program is not automatic from year to year, and you MUST re-enroll every year. To enroll, please go here to complete a 2025 FSA form and follow the instructions regarding how to submit it. 

Please reach out to HR Benefits Manager, Ariadne Condos at  ACondos@hostos.cuny.edu to assist you with any questions.

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 here. 

To enroll in the Buy-Out Program, you must complete BOTH a Health Benefits Application and a MSC Health Benefits Buy-Out Waiver Enrollment/Change Form. If you are already enrolled and wish to continue with the program, you do NOT need to take action, and your enrollment will resume automatically.

All required forms must be completed and returned to Ariadne Condos via email at ACondos@hostos.cuny.edu, no later than Friday, November 8, 2024. Please remember to password-protect any documents with sensitive information.

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CEWD)

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

Join Us for “Bingo with a Twist”!

Are you ready to test your knowledge about Hostos? Join us on Thursday, October 24, from 3 - 5 p.m., at the Savoy Multipurpose Room. There will be prizes, lots of Hostos trivia, snacks, and raffles! This event is possible thanks to the collaboration between our division, Health and Wellness, and the Urban Unity Club. See you there!

CEWD’s Fall 2024 Catalog

The Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Development’s (CEWD) Fall 2024 catalog is now available online. To view it, please click here. 

Information Sessions

To learn more about CEWD’s program offerings, please attend one of our upcoming Virtual or In-Person Information Sessions. To register for a session, visit https://tinyurl.com/HostosCEWD. 

Virtual Sessions

Wednesday, November 6, at 6 PM

Wednesday, December 4, at 6 PM

In-Person Sessions at 560 Exterior Street

Wednesday, November 13, at 6 PM

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT (DIA)

Submitted by Colette Atkins

Golf Outing Inspires a Generous October Matching Gift

This year’s Golf Outing Classic happened to coincide with Title Sponsor Jorge Madruga's birthday. When we surprised him with a cake, he chose to mark the occasion by surprising us with an additional $15,000 matching gift! Through October 31, any gift to the Foundation will be matched dollar for dollar up to $15,000. Thank you to Mr. Madruga and the Madruga Foundation Inc. for your generosity! To make a gift, visit www.GivetoHostos.com. 

BRAVO NEWS

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).

A Mentorship for the Books!

Learn more about the inspiring mentorship relationship between Jahneilia Curtin and Marsha Milan-Bethel, Senior Admission Advisor, whose bond has grown through the Mentor/Mentee Jobs on Campus initiative supported by Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift. Go here for the full details.

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.

ATHLETICS CALENDAR

Basketball starts in November! 

Save the following dates to support the Caimans:

Hostos vs Dutchess CC

Date | Time: Tuesday, November 12 | 6 PM [Women] and 8 PM [Men]

Location: Gymnasium

Description: Home Basketball Game

Hostos vs LaGuardia CC

Date | Time: Tuesday, November 19 | 6 PM [Women] and 8 PM [Men]

Location: Gymnasium

Description: Home Basketball Game

Hostos vs Fulton Montgomery CC

Date | Time: Sunday, November 24 | 2 PM [Women]

Location: Gymnasium

Description: Home Basketball Game

Hostos vs Monroe-BX

Date | Time: Tuesday, December 3 | 6 PM [Women] and 8 PM [Men]

Location: Gymnasium

Description: Home Basketball Game

Hostos vs BMCC

Date | Time: Thursday, December 5 | 6 PM [Women] and 8 PM [Men]

Location: Gymnasium

Description: Home Basketball Game

Hostos vs Queensborough CC

Date | Time: Saturday, December 14 | 12 PM [Women] and 2 PM [Men]

Location: Gymnasium

Description: Home Basketball Game

EVENTS

Title: Univisión 41 Feria Contigo y tu Salud

Date | Time: Saturday, October 19 | 10 AM

Location: Building C

Description: Univisión invites you to this free event, organized and designed to give you and your family the necessary resources to take care of your well-being. Experts will present seminars about diabetes, shingles, retinopathy, liver cancer, and much more. Register here. 

Title: Fall 2024 Hostos Research Center Open House

Date | Time: Wednesday, October 23 | 12:30 - 2 PM

Location: Hostos Research Center 

Description: All are invited to the Fall 2024 Open House to learn about the HRC initiative for students and ADELANTE grants for research development. There will be a special presentation by Professor Debasish Roy about antimicrobial resistance. 

Title: CEWD Bingo with a Twist

Date | Time: Thursday, October 24 | 3 - 5 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: The Hostos CEWD division, Health and Wellness, and the Urban Unity Club invite you to this event, where you’ll test your knowledge about Hostos! There will be prizes and raffles. See you there!

Title: Calpulli Mexican Dance Company’s Día de los Muertos Performance

Date | Time: Saturday, October 26 | 8 PM - Sunday, October 27 | 3 PM

Location: Main Theater

Description: In this spectacular production, the Calpulli Mexican Dance Company explores a love story that spans the boundary between the living and the departed. A loving couple falls victim to treachery and is separated, seemingly forever. The young woman enters Mictlán — the underworld of Aztec mythology — where the mesmerizing Catrina reigns as queen. Folkloric and classical music mix with vibrant dances, colorful costumes, makeup and beautiful set pieces to relate this story of love. Free admission for Hostos students, faculty, and staff! Call 718-518-4455 for free tickets. For Saturday, October 26, get tickets here. For Sunday, October 27, go here. 

Title: Flora Campesina: A Concert by Puerto Rican Cuatro Player Fabiola Méndez

Date | Time: Saturday, November 2 | 8 PM

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: Cuatro player and composer Fabiola Méndez will arrive in New York City with a contemporary tribute to Puerto Rican folk music as part of the concert tour Flora Campesina, her new musical project. During her concert, the singer-songwriter will share songs from her fourth musical release, where she blends traditional Puerto Rican genres, such as danza, seis, bomba, pasillo, and guaracha, with jazz and modern Afro-Caribbean rhythms. Tickets for the concert are already on sale at www.boritix.com and will also be available on the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture website soon. 

Title: Book Presentation: “American Shield” by Sargeant Aquilino Gonell 

Date | Time: Monday, November 11 | 1 - 2 PM

Location: FDR Room (C-312)

Description: Join us for the book presentation of “American Shield,” the life story of Aquilino Gonell, a Dominican immigrant, former U.S. Army soldier, and Iraq War veteran. For seventeen years, he was a United States Capitol Police Officer and was one of four police officers who testified before the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 insurrection. Refreshments will be served.

Title: NEW DATE | The Office of Alumni Relations Presents: the Hostos Laugh-A-ThON!

Date | Time: Thursday, November 14 | 6 PM

Location: SoBro Gardens | 26 Bruckner Blvd., Bronx, NY 10454

Description: Please save the date for the Office of Alumni Relations’ Laugh-A-ThON! Come out for a night of fun, fellowship, and fundraising, and let's turn laughter into opportunities. Grab your tickets now, bring your friends, and get ready to laugh a ton for a wonderful cause! Appetizers will be provided, and each ticket holder will receive one complimentary beverage. Get your tickets and learn more here.

Title: Second Annual Peace and Poetry Event

Date | Time: Tuesday, November 19 | 1 - 2:30 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Description: The Office of the President, in collaboration with the Writing Center, is pleased to host the Second Annual Peace & Poetry event! This will be an inspiring event for all to share their poetic talents. We are seeking poetry enthusiasts (students, faculty, and staff) who would like to share their work with us. Please submit your poem here.

Title: STEM Career Fair

Date | Time: Thursday, November 21 | 1 - 3 PM

Location: C-building (TBD)

Description: Get ready to show your skills to STEM-centered employers at this event at the C-building on November 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. More information will be coming soon!

Title: Senate Meeting – November

Date | Time: Thursday, November 21 | 3:30 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

Title: End of Semester All College Meeting

Date | Time: Thursday, December 12 | 2:30 PM (Doors will open at 2 PM)

Location: Repertory Theater

Description: Join us for an end-of-semester gathering, Manos a la Obra/All Hands on Deck Awards ceremony, and a talent show. Light refreshments will be served before the event in the C-lobby at 1:30 p.m.

Title: Senate Meeting – December

Date | Time: Thursday, December 19 | 3:30 PM

Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room

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.