Celebrating our Hispanic community members

Each year, from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, we observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the cultures, contributions and honoring the histories of Hispanic and Latin Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.  

Sept. 15 is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. Columbus Day or Día de la Raza is on Oct. 12. 

CU Boulder Engineering recognizes that the terms “Hispanic” and “Latinx/é” do not describe the community’s identity as a whole. We also recognize that a term that feels right for one person may not adequately capture the experience of another. We seek to celebrate this month as broadly and inclusively as possible, and to encourage individuals to proudly claim whatever label(s) best describe how they personally identify. 

We are excited to celebrate the contributions of our college and society researchers, instructors, student leaders and alumni. On this page you will find stories, images, and videos of members of our engineering community. Let’s learn about, celebrate, and uplift our National Hispanic and Latino community members.  

Events

Wednesday, Sept. 25. 10 a.m.-Noon, Front entrance of Macky Auditorium and along Pleasant Street
Do you love horses and horse culture? Are you interested in Mexican and Mexican-American history and culture? Then come join the Center of the American West during CU Boulder’s Culture Crawl for “Charreria on Parade” where we bring our photography exhibit about the national sport of Mexico alive in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Wednesday, Sept. 25. 5-11 p.m., UMC Gaming Lounge
Join fellow Buffs for an evening of celebrating the Latinx excellence in gaming. Experience free games in the Gaming Lounge created by Latinx creators/developers or that center the Latinx experience.

Thursday, Sept. 26. 4:30-5:30 p.m., UMC Room 457
Celebrate Latinx/e Heritage Month at our vibrant Bachata Dance Class! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just starting, everyone is welcome to join the fun. Let's dance, celebrate, and honor Latinx/e heritage together! Hosted by the Center for Student Involvement.

Division of Student Affairs celebrates Latinx/é Heritage Month 

Latinx/é Heritage Month celebrates, recognizes and supports the identity, history, culture and contributions of the Latinx/é community. From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, this time honors the legacy and anniversaries of independence across many Latin American countries and Latinx/é peoples. Join us at upcoming events and learn more about how to get involved.

Learn more about Latinx/é Heritage Month

Student Organization

SHPE at CU Boulder

We seek to empower the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and impact the world through STEM awareness while also developing and promoting excellence in education and leadership among engineers and scientists.

2024-2025 Executive Board

Gustavo Sanchez Jr.

President
Major: Electrical Engineering

Jackie Padilla

Vice President
Major: Mechanical Engineering

Ari Quezada Caro

Treasurer
Major: Chemical and Biological Engineering

Blake Martinez

Secretary
Major: Mechanical Engineering

Fernanda Arias Aguilar

Social Media Coordinator
Major: Architectural Engineering

Arly Diaz De Leon

Professional Development
Major: Environmental Engineering

Cindia Denova Garduno

Historian
Major: Architectural Engineering

Dominic Gonzales

Webmaster
Major: Electrical Engineering

Andrew McCoy

Outreach Coordinator
Major: Mechanical Engineering

Kevin Sanchez

Public Relations
Major: Information Science

Bernadette Weigang

Academic Chair
Major: Aerospace Engineering

Jayce Winn

Engagement Coordinator
Major: Biomedical Engineering

Resources

Celebrate with us by exploring our recommended resources or by attending an event in our local community.

Recommended Reading

CU Boulder Department of History