Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15. It is a month-long celebration of Latino history and culture. Hispanic Heritage Month also provides the opportunity to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations.
This month, we are highlighting Omar Vasquez. Vasquez is a doctoral student in the clinical psychology program at Spalding University. Vasquez also runs the Eagle Excellence Program, created to support the well-being of student athletes.
Who is a historical figure from the Hispanic community that inspires you daily?
A historical figure from the Hispanic/Latinx community that inspires me daily is Cesar Chavez. Cesar Chavez was an activist and advocated for others. I believe that his goal was to help others, which is something I connect to and value, which involves empowering individuals and groups to overcome challenging moments. I also chose Cesar Chavez because I am from San Jose, California, and I have often passed by his childhood home in San Jose when I would travel between my home and school. His impact on the community is something that inspires me every day.
What are some ways in which you feel Spalding has been a welcoming community to you personally and how have you done the same for others?
Spalding has been a welcoming community to me, as the people are some of the most genuine and kind people I have ever met. The leadership, faculty, and other Spalding staff in my program have been so welcoming and helped me throughout my academic career. This welcoming community has helped me connect with others and create new relationships. I have been open to learning and fostering relationships and have done so by incorporating my values of cultivating curiosity, cultural humility, connection, care, collaboration, and compassion, which have been integral in the development of the Eagle Excellence Program. The Eagle Excellence Program office (located in Columbia Gym) welcomes anyone, regardless of identity, culture, nationality, or sexual orientation.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month has many meanings to me. It is a celebration of my identity and my roots. Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to highlight Hispanic and Latinx culture. It is an opportunity to learn more about others and their contributions, struggles, and values. Overall, Hispanic Heritage Month means bringing awareness to Hispanic and Latinx culture and allows an opportunity for more representation.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to learn more about Hispanic cultures?
Be curious and ask questions. Curiosity is a way to grow and learn. Review history and read about influential events that have influenced Hispanic and Latinx communities.
Spalding makes inclusivity and equity a priority. We are building a strong, diverse community of learners, leaders, and future professionals who will serve their communities with passion for their work and compassion for one another.
Visit our DEI resources page to learn more.