Dear Lakers,
As we move through the first few weeks of the semester, we also begin Hispanic Heritage Month, observed each year from September 15 to October 15. This is a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latine/Latinx Americans, and to reflect on the many ways those contributions have shaped our communities.
Hispanic heritage is rich and diverse, spanning many generations, countries, languages and cultures. From artists and educators to scientists, activists, leaders and community builders, Hispanic and Latine/Latinx people have helped shape the world around us in countless ways.
At Grand Valley, we are proud of the Hispanic and Latine/Latinx students, faculty, staff and community members who bring their experiences and talents to the university. As we celebrate this month, I invite each of us to carry its spirit beyond October 15. Our shared humanity connects us, even when our experiences, backgrounds and/or perspectives differ. We can honor that connection by remaining curious, listening, and making space for others to be heard. These are small acts, but together they help create the kind of community we want at GVSU.
Hispanic Heritage Month is an invitation for all of us to participate. Attend an event, experience music or art, learn about a new tradition, share a meal or simply make space to connect. Explore what’s happening on campus and in the community to get started:
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September 15, 7-8:30 p.m.
2263 Kirkhof Center, Valley Campus |
Hosted by: Monarcas Ballet Folklorico
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September 22, Noon-3 p.m.
1240 Kirkhof Center, Valley Campus |
Hosted by: Center for Women and Gender Equity
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October 9, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
LMCU Ballpark, 4500 West River Dr. NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321 |
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October 9, 6 p.m.
2250 Kirkhof Center, Valley Campus
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Join the celebration for authentic food (comida auténtica) and performances (presentaciones).
Hosted by: Monarcas Ballet Folklorico, Latino Student Union, and the Office of Multicultural Affairs
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October 15, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Pere Marquette, Kirkhof Center, Valley Campus
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Inspired in part by Colombia’s Feria de las Flores (Festival of Flowers), the celebration will mark the end of Hispanic Heritage Month and highlight the diversity within Hispanic and Latine/Latinx American cultures. Stop by to help create a collective GVSU silleta (floral display) and connect over popular Colombian street foods and snacks. RSVP for Flores y Cultura.
Hosted by: People, Equity, and Culture and the Office of Multicultural Affairs
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We hope you’ll take time this month to celebrate, learn, and connect with members of our Grand Valley community. These moments of learning and connection help us live out what it means to reach higher together.
In this moment, I also want to acknowledge a recent accomplishment: GVSU was recognized as one of the institutions to earn a 2026 Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Award from Insight Into Academia magazine. This is because the work you all do to achieve academic excellence, create opportunities for belonging, and foster community-building across our campuses. I am honored to work at an institution that aspires to create a welcoming campus environment every day and want to share my thanks for each of you for helping to accomplish this.
As always, I’ll leave you with a quote. In the words of Dolores Huerta, American labor leader, feminist, and civil rights activist: “When a group of people get together, it’s collective power. You know that you’re doing it for the good.”
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
Sincerely,
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Robert Shorty, Ph.D.
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture,
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer
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1 Campus Drive
1000 James H. Zumberge Hall
Allendale, MI 49401
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