Friday, October 31, 2025 | Vol. 11, No. 10 | | MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAISY COCCO DE FILIPPIS | | |
My Dear Colleagues and Students,
As it happens often, I reflect on recent conversations with our students about progress in their studies. Diligent work continues, engaging a wide-ranging group of colleagues in so many areas. All are to be thanked for the goodwill and the important work which will continue throughout the academic year. Mil gracias.
The fall continues with celebrations of the season which includes many opportunities to rejoice in the company of all our brothers and sisters as part of the human family. If you can, please join us during one of the presentations of the “Julia VIVE” film next week as we inaugurate Puerto Rican History Month. Let hope, generosity, and engagement continue to guide your work as our path forward together makes progress.
Mil gracias y bendiciones,
Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D.
President
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Río Grande de Loíza
By Julia de Burgos
¡Río Grande de Loíza!… Alárgate en mi espíritu
y deja que mi alma se pierda en tus riachuelos,
para buscar la fuente que te robó de niño
y en un ímpetu loco te devolvió al sendero.
Enróscate en mis labios y deja que te beba,
para sentirte mío por un breve momento,
y esconderte del mundo y en ti mismo esconderte,
y oír voces de asombro en la boca del viento.
Apéate un instante del lomo de la tierra,
y busca de mis ansias el íntimo secreto;
confúndete en el vuelo de mi ave fantasía,
y déjame una rosa de agua en mis ensueños.
¡Río Grande de Loíza!… Mi manantial, mi río,
desde que alzome al mundo el pétalo materno;
contigo se bajaron desde las rudas cuestas,
a buscar nuevos surcos, mis pálidos anhelos;
y mi niñez fue toda un poema en el río,
y un río en el poema de mis primeros sueños.
Llegó la adolescencia. Me sorprendió la vida
prendida en lo más ancho de tu viajar eterno;
y fui tuya mil veces, y en un bello romance
me despertaste el alma y me besaste el cuerpo.
¿A dónde te llevaste las aguas que bañaron
mis formas, en espiga de sol recién abierto?
¡Quién sabe en qué remoto país mediterráneo
algún fauno en la playa me estará poseyendo!
¡Quién sabe en qué aguacero de qué tierra lejana
me estaré derramando para abrir surcos nuevos;
o si acaso, cansada de morder corazones,
me estaré congelando en cristales de hielo!
¡Río Grande de Loíza!… Azul. Moreno. Rojo.
Espejo azul, caído pedazo azul de cielo;
desnuda carne blanca que se te vuelve negra
cada vez que la noche se te mete en el lecho;
roja franja de sangre, cuando baja la lluvia
a torrentes su barro te vomitan los cerros.
Río hombre, pero hombre con pureza de río,
porque das tu azul alma cuando das tu azul beso.
Muy señor río mío. Río hombre. Único hombre
que ha besado en mi alma al besar en mi cuerpo.
¡Río Grande de Loíza!… Río grande. Llanto grande.
El más grande de todos nuestros llantos isleños,
si no fuera más grande el que de mí se sale
por los ojos del alma para mi esclavo pueblo.
Río Grande de Loíza
Translation by Jack Agüeros
Rio Grande de Loiza!... Elongate yourself in my spirit
and let my soul lose itself in your rivulets,
finding the fountain that robbed you as a child
and in a crazed impulse returned you to the path.
Coil yourself upon my lips and let me drink you,
to feel you mine for a brief moment,
to hide you from the world and hide you in yourself,
to hear astonished voices in the mouth of the wind.
Dismount for a moment from the loin of the earth,
and search for the intimate secret in my desires;
confuse yourself in the flight of my bird fantasy,
and leave a rose of water in my dreams.
Rio Grande de Loiza!... My wellspring, my river
since the maternal petal lifted me to the world;
my pale desires came down in you from the craggy hills
to find new furrows;
and my childhood was all a poem in the river,
and a river in the poem of my first dreams.
Adolescence arrived. Life surprised me
pinned to the widest part of your eternal voyage;
and I was yours a thousand times, and in a beautiful romance
you awoke my soul and kissed my body.
Were did you take the waters that bathed
my body in a sun blossom recently opened?
Who knows on what remote Mediterranean shore
some faun shall be possessing me!
Who knows in what rainfall of what far land
I shall be spilling to open new furrows;
or perhaps, tired of biting hearts
I shall be freezing in icicles!
Rio Grande de Loiza!... Blue. Brown. Red.
Blue mirror, fallen piece of blue sky;
naked white flesh that turns black
each time the night enters your bed;
red stripe of blood, when the rain falls
in torrents and the hills vomit their mud.
Man river, but man with the purity of river,
because you give your blue soul when you give your blue kiss.
Most sovereign river mine. Man river. The only man
who has kissed my soul upon kissing my body.
Rio Grande de Loiza!... Great river. Great flood of tears.
The greatest of all our island’s tears
save those greater that come from the eyes
of my soul for my enslaved people.
Selected from Song of the Simple Truth: Obra poética completa | The complete poems of Julia de Burgos, compiled and edited by Jack Agüeros. Willimantic, CT: Curbstone Press, 1997. pp 8-11.
| | MS. MACKENZIE SCOTT'S GIFT: PRESIDENT'S INITIATIVES | | |
Submitted by Research Programs Director Sofia Oviedo, Ph.D.
Educating for Diversity Spring 2026 Call for Applications
Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives is pleased to announce the Call for Applications for the Educating for Diversity Initiative for Spring 2026! We are inviting applications from students, faculty, and staff for mini-grants to support cultural, social, and educational activities that address the interests of Hostos students and community members in advancing issues of social justice, racial equity, diversity, and inclusion. Grants will range from $1,000 - $2,000, and submissions are welcome from any individual or group at Hostos. All proposed events/activities must occur during the Spring 2026 semester.
Requests for funding can address any of the following:
- Activities/events that promote all forms of diversity, equity, and inclusion (race/ethnicity, gender identity/sexual orientation, faith, disability, and any others) proposed by the college community.
- Integration of events/activities to support course/curriculum enhancement in any major/discipline.
- Veladas Hostosianas/Hostos Culture Talks.
- Black at Hostos series.
- Activities celebrating our different world cultures and heritage months.
Click here to apply. The deadline is Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Calling Hostos Poets to Submit for Peace & Poetry Event!
The Office of the President and The Writing Center are delighted to announce an afternoon of Peace & Poetry on Tuesday, December 9, at 1 p.m. in the Savoy Multi-Purpose Room 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 in any language. If you are interested in participating and reading your favorite poetry selection, please submit your poem here for consideration. Do not miss this wonderful opportunity to join with the Hostos community as we gather to enjoy a delicious lunch and reflect on the inspirational power of poetry!
The deadline for submissions is Friday, November 14, 2025.
| | INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS, RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT (OIERA) | | |
Submitted by Assistant Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness Babette Audant, Ph.D.
MSCHE and CUNY: Accreditation, Legitimacy and Standing Ground
On October 24, representatives from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and colleges across CUNY convened for a full day conference at Baruch College: “Maintaining Excellence: Navigating Accreditation in Today's Landscape.” Early sessions focused on the self-study/re-accreditation process (which Hostos most recently achieved in 2022). Two colleges (York and BCC) shared strategies for organizing and conducting their re-accreditation. The most notable differences were communication strategies and the writing process: neither institution had a designated writer, unlike Hostos (thank you, Professor Kate Lyons, for weaving a consistent and compelling narrative!).
The relationship between CUNY and its individual campuses is unique and MSCHE has, over the past decade, designated Vice Presidents who — through site visits and other interactions — became familiar with CUNY’s fiscal processes, the Board of Trustees’ role and the balance of centralized processes and autonomous colleges. There have been many changes among the MSCHE VPs and that depth of knowledge has been lost. The two VPs who attended the conference, Kristy A. Bishop and Tiffany C. Lee, are not designated “CUNY experts.” They provided updates and were studiously neutral in their discussion of MSCHE’s amended stance on institutional commitments to supporting and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, which is integrated across the seven MSCHE Standards. We were reminded to be true to our respective missions and that, despite our missions, if institutions were no longer addressing DEI, there is a statement available upon request from MSCHE that institutions can insert into their self-study to this effect. At CUNY, institutions have not abandoned the address of DEI even if the language used to discuss these efforts is “strategic.”
All this said, MSCHE is clearly committed to standing its ground as a critical and legitimate partner to colleges and universities, with accreditation determined by peer review. It’s a balancing act and one that we are watching in real time. Like other institutions of higher education, MSCHE has come under attack, accused of being no more than a bloated bureaucratic structure without legitimacy. This past summer, the federal administration tried to weaponize MSCHE, telling the Commission to suspend Columbia University’s accreditation, and with it, Columbia students’ ability to access federal financial aid. MSCHE responded instead by requiring Columbia to submit a monitoring report, due in November.
The final panel, focused on Supplemental Information Requests, or SIRs, a form of monitoring report. Both MSCHE VPs presented briefly about the process, sharing details about a new SIR template. I shared details of Hostos’ two recent SIRs (2023 and 2024), both issued because our three-year graduation rates are below the national standard of 23% (an assessment based on the Fall 20 and Fall 21 cohorts, with 3-year graduation rates of 17% and 16% respectively). Our strategy was to demonstrate how our Strategic Plan and annual operational plans are informed by data, and are squarely focused on improving student outcomes from the start, by emphasizing the implementation of comprehensive First Year Experience. Early gains are promising, and significantly improved graduation rates are a multi-year effort. Post-presentation comments indicated an appreciation for presenting data “honestly.” That is a reflection of our culture, and our leadership, at Hostos.
Dr. Gladys Palma de Schrynemakers, CUNY Interim Senior University Dean for Graduate and Undergraduate Programming, closed the day with a rousing defense of CUNY, of our work as a public institution, and of higher education as the force that will save democracy in America. And so we are.
| | OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS | | |
Submitted by Director Eric Radezky, Ph.D.
New York City Landlords Required to Provide Heat and Hot Water from October 1 to May 31
This week’s update comes from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) about heat and hot water laws in the cold months.
For HPD (non-NYCHA residents)
By law, New York City has an eight-month-long “heat season” from October 1st to May 31st during which all residential building owners are required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees when outdoor temperatures fall below 55 degrees during the day. Indoor temperatures must also be a minimum of 62 degrees overnight, regardless of outdoor temperatures. Building owners are legally required to provide hot water at 120 degrees year-round.
If an apartment lacks appropriate heat and/or hot water, tenants should first attempt to notify the building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If service is not restored, the tenant should register an official complaint by calling 311 or downloading and using the 311-mobile app. Hearing-impaired tenants can register complaints via a Touchtone Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 212-504-4115. Be sure to write down and keep your 311-complaint number.
HPD responds to heat and hot water complaints as quickly as possible. Tenants can monitor HPD Online to learn the result of the complaint. If a landlord fails to provide heat entirely, HPD’s Emergency Repair Program or Housing Litigation Division will intervene to seek the restoration of heat. Multiple complaints from a particular building are often the result of one condition in need of repair.
Low-income property owners having trouble maintaining heat in their homes should visit the website of the Home Energy Assistance Program. Eligible households can qualify for assistance paying heating bills or repairing heating equipment.
For NYCHA Residents
NYCHA residents follow a different procedure. Residents experiencing issues with heat or hot water should call the NYCHA Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 or report the issue via the MyNYCHA mobile app or web version. They should also contact NYCHA when:
- The apartment temperature is out of range.
- They have hot pipes and cold radiators.
- A window is not closing properly.
- Steam is leaking into the apartment.
- The building’s front entrance door does not fully close.
View this NYCHA Journal entry for a list of helpful tips to keep apartments warm during the winter season.
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Submitted by Dean Ana I. García Reyes
As Always, Thank You for Making Us Part of Your Journeys!
The Office of Community Relations is once again deeply thankful to our partners and friends for the invitation to participate in meaningful cultural celebrations, meetings and community forums in October. Some of these included:
- The book presentation, "Amor y desamor,” by Author Zenaida Méndez, Director of Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN), and Hostos CAC member.
- A special meeting with the Dr. Nasry Michelen Foundation, Inc.
- Festival de Cine Dominicano, a special cinematic celebration of our culture.
- The Feria Internacional del Libro organized by the CUNY Mexican Studies Institute in collaboration with multiple international and local organizations at John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
- The Youth Career Summit at Fordham University with dozens of high school students in attendance.
- The Bellas Foundation Leadership Summit, a one-day conference designed to educate, empower, and expand access to leadership pathways.
We’re looking forward to participating in future events in November, including the conference “El Poder de la Unidad: Liderando el Futuro Infantil” at the CUNY School of Professional Studies. Attendees will share real life stories, impact, collaboration and objectives for Latino leadership to safeguard our children.
We also want to thank Oscar López Reyes, Communication Studies Coordinator at Universidad Dominicana O&M and Director of Communications to the Dominican Republic Comptroller, for visiting our office in late October. We engaged in meaningful conversation about potential collaborations, learned about his research interests and work, and toured the College, showing him our facilities and sharing the spirit that makes our community feel like home. We’re glad to know that López Reyes was pleased and inspired with the work we do here for the success of our students, and look forward to welcoming him again soon!
Lastly, please note that applications for the Summer 2026 Professional Development & Study Abroad Program in the Dominican Republic are now open. To register, or for additional information, please email Mr. Gerson Peña at GPENA@hostos.cuny.edu.
We deeply appreciate these partners for welcoming Hostos into their spaces and for allowing us to stand alongside them in service to our communities.
| | OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND DIVERSITY | | |
Submitted by Chief Diversity Officer Philip Oliveri, Esq.
National Native American Heritage Month
November is federally recognized as National Native American Heritage Month. During this month, Native North Americans and Tribal citizens are honored and celebrated for their rich and varied cultures, traditions, history, and societal contributions. This month gives us the opportunity to become more educated about Native Americans and Tribal citizens, increase our knowledge of unique challenges faced by this population, and better understand how historical trauma (such as colonization and genocide) has impacted Native Americans. As the original inhabitants of North America, Native Americans and Tribal citizens are both members of U.S. society and have been integral to its development.
Additionally, November 28 is recognized as Native American Heritage Day in 2025. In 2009, President Barack Obama signed The Native American Heritage Day Resolution, designating the Friday after Thanksgiving as Native American Heritage Day and stating: “I encourage every American to join me in observing Native American Heritage Day…It is also important for all of us to understand the rich culture, tradition, and history of Native Americans and their status today and to appreciate the contributions that First Americans have made and will continue to make to our Nation.”
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Submitted by Interim Provost and VP Andrea Fabrizio, Ph.D.
2026 Student Symposium Builds on its Successes from the Past
The Third Annual Hostos Student Symposium, made possible through Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives, was a vibrant platform for Hostos students to present their work, engage with peers, and strengthen their academic and professional skills.
Guided by faculty mentors, over 130 students presented posters and PowerPoint talks highlighting key projects from the academic year. To recognize their commitment and hard work, each student participant received a stipend.
The 2025 event was the largest Student Symposium to date and even caught the attention of The Bronx Times, which covered the day’s highlights. Read the article here.
With the continued growth and enthusiasm around this signature event, we’re already looking forward to what the 2026 Hostos Student Symposium will bring. The remarkable presentations and collaborative spirit seen this past spring provide a strong foundation for another successful year — we can't wait to see what’s in store.
Writing Center Provides Support In Person and Online
The Hostos Writing Center offers both in-person and virtual tutoring appointments to assist students at any stage of the writing process. We are open Monday-Thursday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) and on Fridays (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.). Our virtual tutoring days are on Tuesdays and Fridays. Sessions can be scheduled through Navigate, in-person, or by contacting the WC via email or phone.
The WC also offers workshops and class visits on an array of topics and writing skills to help build the confidence of our students. For scheduling, please use this form: https://forms.gle/RKbFm65uJCp9pszJ8.
We look forward to working with you!
November is National Career Development Month
Submitted by Career Services Director Lisanette Rosario
November arrives softly, carrying the promise of change,
not just in the weather, but in the hearts of those who dream.
It’s National Career Development Month,
a time to pause, reflect, and take that next brave step forward.
In classrooms, labs, and quiet study spaces,
students begin to shape their stories,
drafting resumes, meeting mentors,
discovering the power of preparation and purpose.
Here at Hostos Career Services,
we see every student’s potential,
in one conversation, one refined resume,
one internship that can spark something greater.
This month, we celebrate that spark.
We celebrate your goals, your persistence,
and the courage it takes to imagine the future you deserve.
Dream. Prepare. Believe.
Your path to success begins here,
and we’re walking beside you, every step of the way.
Student Success Stories
We are proud to celebrate Rebeca G., a Spring 2025 Hostos graduate, who recently secured a position as an Assistant Teacher at the Manhattan Schoolhouse. Rebeca’s journey began during her EDU 113 Field Experience, where she gained hands-on experience working with children that prepared her for the workforce. She actively connected with Career Services, seeking job search assistance, refining her resume, asking questions, and following up throughout the process. With her persistence and guidance from Career Services, Rebeca successfully transitioned from student to educator. She is now continuing her studies at Hunter College, where she hopes to work closely with children and help them reach their full potential.
We also highlight Mabel V., a dedicated Hostos student who recently secured an internship with the New York City Department for the Aging as a Health Insurance Counseling Intern. Mabel brings years of experience in the healthcare field, having worked as a Personal Care Aide and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She looks forward to expanding her knowledge of public health resources and supporting older adults in her community.
Both Rebeca and Mabel received individual assistance from Estefani Pliego, Career Readiness Coach, who worked with each student on resume/cover letter development, job search strategies, and interview preparation. Estefani’s individualized support helped them move confidently toward their professional goals.
We are also thrilled to spotlight Anthony A. González, a dedicated and ambitious student enrolled in the Joint Dual Admission Engineering Program between Hostos Community College and The City College of New York’s Grove School of Engineering. Anthony has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, earning over 30 college credits and maintaining a strong GPA.
This fall, Anthony took an important step toward his professional goals by applying for the Engineering/Computer Aide Internship with Con Edison’s Gas Engineering Team, an opportunity initially received by Dr. Sofia Oviedo, who promptly shared it with Career Services. Career Services/Student Career Program Specialist Cheryl Thomas coordinated outreach to students and worked with Anthony to refine his resume, ensuring it highlighted his skills, experience, and potential. His strong application captured the attention of the hiring team, who have now invited him to interview for this exciting opportunity.
As Anthony awaits the outcome, we cheer him on with pride and confidence. His story demonstrates the power of community, preparation, and perseverance, and we know this is just the beginning of a bright future in engineering.
| | STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT (SDEM) | | |
Submitted by VP Althea Sterling, Ed.D.
Transfer Services
Opening Doors Beyond Hostos
This semester, our students explored college campuses across the city to discover their next academic chapter. These tours are a crucial part of the transfer process and future planning. “This tour made me pursue more education,” said a psychology major set to graduate Spring 2026. Visiting campuses beyond Hostos ignited a vision for continuing their educational journey. Another Spring 2026 graduate stood on a new campus and declared, “I definitely want to come here.” That’s the power of seeing yourself in a new space — it turns possibility into intention.
But we didn’t stop there. This semester brought an entire ecosystem of transfer support:
Four College Tours – Students stepped onto campuses across the city, seeing their futures take shape.
- On-the-Spot Admissions with Lehman College – Aspirations became acceptance letters in real time.
- Transfer Fair with Over 50 Colleges – From CUNY to SUNY to private institutions, all under one roof.
- See It, Believe It, Achieve It Alumni Brunch – Hostos graduates who continued to Lehman returned to share their journeys and prove the path forward.
- Snack N Apps Event – Good food, great conversations, and meaningful connections with transfer representatives.
- Weekly Transfer Tabling – With 62 schools signed up for weekly events on our campus, students have consistent access to information and opportunities every single week.
Two events fully loaded with food and activities. Four transformative tours. Countless connections made. All of this exciting programming reinforces our mission: your Hostos degree is just the beginning.
We’re here to help you see what’s next! Schedule an appointment with a Transfer Services Specialist here or call us at 718-518-4457.
Student Activities
The Flag Family Continues to Grow
On Thursday, September 18, the Office of Student Activities hosted the first Flag Installation Ceremony of the Fall 2025 semester, welcoming two new additions to our collection: the national flags of Togo and Antigua & Barbuda. The flag of Togo was proudly added at the request of SGA Commissioner Akoli Sessi, while the flag of Antigua & Barbuda was introduced thanks to a request from SGA President Nichelle Hemphill.
Earlier this month, on October 6, a second ceremony took place to install the flag of Algeria, a meaningful addition sparked by a student who noticed its absence and took the initiative to reach out.
These three new flags bring our total to 89 flags: 87 national flags representing the incredible diversity of our student body and 2 community flags, the Progress Pride Flag and the Traumatic Brain Injury Flag, that reflect our campus's values of inclusion and awareness.
We're not done yet! More flags are expected to join the family before the semester ends.
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: From Intention to Impact: The Laws of Growth w/ Jessica Janniere
Date | Time: November 7 | 3 - 4 PM
Location: C-390
Description: Learn key principles from “The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth” and how resilience and intentionality shape lasting success.
Title: 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
Stay Connected with eduroam at CUNY
Eduroam is a free and secure Wi-Fi service that lets students, staff, faculty, and researchers connect to the internet at any participating institution around the world — including many CUNY campuses and offices. You can find a list of eduroam locations on the CUNY Technology Services eduroam page.
As a friendly reminder, on the evening of October 9, 2025, CUNY CIS updated eduroam’s security certificate to help keep your connection safe and secure.
What does this eduroam maintenance mean for you?
To keep using eduroam, you’ll need to update the settings on your phone, laptop, or other devices. The easiest way to do this is with the eduroam Configuration Assistant Tool (CAT).
Need help?
Visit www.cuny.edu/eduroam for instructions on installing and using the Configuration Assistant tool for your devices, or check out the eduroam FAQs on the CUNY IT Help page.
| | 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)
Watch our press release about CEWD's ConEd grant picked up by News12 here.
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 1
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, Nov. 12, 12:30 PM (Virtual)
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.
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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).
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.
Dr. Paule Valery Joseph Elected as New Member of National Academy of Medicine
Our alumna, Dr. Paule Valery Joseph ‘05, just became a new member of the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). At their 2025 Annual Meeting, NAM announced the selection of 90 regular members and 10 international members. Election to the Academy is considered one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service. Learn more about Dr. Valery Joseph here.
CEWD Receives $25K ConEd Grant
The Hostos Community College Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Development (CEWD) has been awarded $25,000 by the Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. (Con Edison) to implement the Hostos CEWD Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology Seminar, a program designed to prepare students for education and career pathways in the clean energy and technology sectors. Read more here.
Hostos Students Receive Inspiring Guidance from Dr. Robert A. Scott
On Wednesday, October 22, Hostos Community College proudly hosted Dr. Robert A. Scott, co-author of “Letters to Students: What It Means to Be a College Graduate,” for an inspiring presentation that celebrated the transformative power of higher education, reflection, and purpose-driven learning. Read more here.
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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!
Women’s Basketball Game
Date | Time: Saturday, November 1 | 2 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Women’s Basketball vs Community College of Rhode Island
Basketball Double Header
Date | Time: Tuesday, November 4 | 6 PM & 8 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Men’s & Women’s Basketball vs Kingsborough Community College
Basketball Double Header
Date | Time: Tuesday, November 6 | 6 PM & 8 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Men’s & Women’s Basketball vs Bronx Community College
Basketball Double Header
Date | Time: Tuesday, November 13 | 6 PM & 8 PM
Location: Gymnasium
Description: Men’s & Women’s Basketball vs Suffolk Community College
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: Liberal Arts A.A. Alumni Career Talk Panel
Date | Time: Thursday, November 3 | 11 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: C-391
Description: Alumni speakers who graduated with an A.A. in liberal arts will reflect on their experiences as a Hostos student and how their degree prepared them for their current careers. They will share their advice for transferring to four-year schools, job seeking, and career advancement.
Title: Puerto Rican Heritage Month | Julia Vive
Date | Time: TWO SHOWINGS on Wednesday, November 5 | 2 PM & 7 PM
Location: Repertory Theater
Description: Join us for a special viewing of the documentary, “Julia VIVE,” honoring Puerto Rico’s national poet, Julia de Burgos. The film combines fictional vignettes with archival footage and academic interviews, and explores her life, activism, and posthumous fame in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and New York. The event will include a Q&A with director Álvaro Calderón Martinez moderated by theater professor Ángel Morales, and a poetry performance by Julissa Bernabe AKA Pō’edik, who is a proud member of the Hostos family through her father, Arnaldo Bernabe, Chief of Public Safety.
Title: Fall 2025 Industry Summit: Arts Administration and the Digital Arts
Date | Time: Thursday, November 13 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Location: Savoy Multipurpose Room
Description: Thinking of launching a career in the arts? Join Hostos Community College for this fall’s industry summit! Speakers will deliver valuable information on exploring careers, curriculum innovations, and opportunities for networking and collaboration in the arts administration and digital arts fields. More details coming soon.
Title: Hostos Alumni Karaoke Night
Date | Time: Thursday, November 13 | 5:30 PM
Location: Marisco Centro
Description: Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and Hostos pride all in support of the Hostos Alumni Fund for Student Transfer Scholarships! Proudly sponsored by Kofee NYC, this event is more than just karaoke — it is a chance to build a stronger, more connected Hostos alumni community. Your $30 ticket includes a delicious spread of appetizers and a refreshing beverage of your choice, a perfect fuel for an evening of fun and entertainment. Register and purchase tickets here.
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 a local chef. More information is coming soon.
Title: November 2025: College-wide Senate Meeting
Date | Time: Thursday, November 20 | 3:30 - 5 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!
Title: December 2025: College-wide Senate Meeting
Date | Time: Thursday, December 20 | 3:30 - 5 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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