Panel Discusses Hispanic Community’s Challenges at Stockton
Stockton UNIDOS, a faculty and staff affinity group that brings together Stockton community members interested in expanding the cultural and historical contributions of the Hispanic community at Stockton, hosted a panel in commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month on Thursday, Sept. 19.
Galloway, N.J. – In commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Stockton University UNIDOS hosted “Escaleras (The Climb),” a panel that brought together alumni, current students and community members on Thursday, Sept. 19, for an empowering conversation about the challenges and triumphs of the Hispanic community and people of color.
The panel addressed topics like imposter syndrome, breaking through barriers and the struggles unique to marginalized groups.
For many attendees, like student Jade Rojas-Munguia, the event resonated deeply and highlighted the collective strength of the community.
"There were many things I loved about this panel, but what resonated with me the most was seeing people on stage who looked and sounded just like me. Their struggles mirrored my own, reminding me that none of us are truly alone in this journey we call life," the Lambda Theta Alpha Sorority member said.
The panel, moderated by Heather Medina, director of Admissions, served as a moment of personal and professional triumph for her. She marveled at the progress and success of the panelists, saying, “It was a full circle moment for me to reunite with the Stockton alumni. They have elevated themselves into being powerhouses in their profession. What a blessing to see the fruits of your labor unfold before your very eyes!"
The event also created a space for new members of the Stockton community, like Patricia Suppes, the director of Global Engagement, to feel embraced.
"I have never before in my professional life had a community like this. Mi gente here at Stockton means the world to me, and I have felt such support. Tonight’s event featuring Latino alumni was everything," Suppes said.
Stockton UNIDOS (which means Stockton UNITED) was established in 2018 by Stockton staff to assist in bringing together faculty and staff interested in expanding the cultural and historical contributions of the Hispanic community. The organization aims to advocate for and address mentoring, recruitment and retention of Stockton employees. Its main purpose is to promote the ideals of inclusion for affiliated faculty and staff, thereby ensuring an increased sense of belonging at Stockton and making the university a workplace of choice.
Panelists:
- Stephanie Maldonado
- Lucy Martinez
- Geovanni Molina
- Ruby Delarosa
- Mildred Reyes
Sofia Abreu, director of the Career Education & Development office, and Rosa Maldonado, assistant dean for the School of Arts & Humanities, were part of the large team that led the organization and implementation of the panel. Both expressed their gratitude for UNIDOS and the opportunity to create an event as powerful as this one.
"Thanks to the UNIDOS team for bringing this vision to life. I couldn’t do this without their support and encouragement every step of the way. This community truly makes me believe that anything is possible,” said Abreu, who serves as UNIDOS’ co-chair.
"Our Hispanic Heritage Month event was a resounding success. Kudos to Sofia Abreu for her outstanding organization and efforts,” Maldonado said. “I am thrilled to be part of a team with such amazing and driven individuals. The possibilities for UNIDOS are endless."
As the evening came to a close, the message was clear: Escaleras not only celebrated the achievements of the Hispanic community but also created an inclusive, empowering space for vital conversations. The courage and wisdom shared by the panelists gave current students and attendees the tools to reach any heights they aspire to.
As Rojas-Munguia summed up, “They are me, and I am them — a truth that will forever live in my heart.”
– Story and photos submitted by Ana Edmondson
Pan-American Flag Raised, Kicks Off Hispanic Heritage Month
September 13, 2024
Galloway, N.J. – “As a young Latina, I know firsthand the challenges that come with my role. There are times when my intelligence or abilities are questioned or undermined, but you know what drives me? My faith, my family, my colleagues, the role models at this institution who paved the way… and most importantly, you, the students. You all give me purpose.”
Ana Edmondson’s message on the importance of finding support and motivation in your community was emphasized throughout Sept. 13’s annual Hispanic Heritage Month Flag Raising in front of the Galloway campus’ Arts & Sciences Circle.
For seven years, the Pan-American flag — which serves as the logo for the student organization Los Latinos Unidos — has been raised to honor and acknowledge the many accomplishments and contributions of the Hispanic communities on Stockton’s multicultural campus.
The tradition also launches the beginning of a month-long celebration that includes programming until Oct. 15.
While the crowd enjoyed the sunshine, the speakers discussed many challenges surrounding being a Hispanic student, including, but not limited to, finding financial resources as an immigrant and navigating higher education as a first-generation Osprey.
Despite these systemic barriers, these students persist in their pursuit of education and upward mobility, as demonstrated by LLU president Juan Diego Chaparro Villarreal and Student Senate president Andrea Sandoval.
