Charlotte, NC – Ranger College has led the charge in celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month. Throughout the month, the Rangers have hosted a multitude of events and activities for students to participate in to shine a light on individuals within their community.
Ranger College student-athletes also participated in this month's festivities and reflected on what National Hispanic Heritage Month means to them. "National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and recognize our culture, history, and contributions to American society," stated Ranger soccer player Loren Ivanna Jara Canete. "It is also a reminder of the importance of diversity and unity in our Latino community."
A couple of events that took place during this month included El Chismesito and guest speaker Gabe Salazar. El Chismesito was available to all students and consisted of pan dulce and café. Guest speaker Gabe Salazar, America's #1 Latino youth speaker, spoke to over 200+ students with the goal of motivating them to reach their highest potential.
"National Hispanic Heritage Month means something special to me because it's a part of who I am," said Ranger volleyball player Jazbeth Casanova. "I am so lucky, grateful, and honored to represent my Mexican culture and the meaning of it. My entire family is Mexican, so it runs in our blood. Spanish is a beautiful and rich language with many different accents and immense and unique vocabulary that represents the Spanish and Latin American cultures which I am grateful to be a part of."
Ranger College, one of the 572 Hispanic Serving Institutions, has at least 25% of students who are Hispanic. Highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels, Ranger College put forth the effort to make sure that all students, specifically those of Hispanic descent, felt celebrated, appreciated, and seen. Other events hosted throughout the month included movie night, street dance and food trucks, street corn and pinata blast, transfer college day, and 'Iron Sharpen Irons' with guest speaker Dr. Calvin Lawrence.
"National Hispanic Heritage Month is a special time for me," said Ranger soccer player Albert Garcia. "It allows me to freely represent my Hispanic culture and background. I've been taught to appreciate and love everything about our Hispanic culture from traditions to our amazing food." During National Hispanic Heritage Month, the NJCAA is proud to shine a light on the people and cultures that make up its great organization.