Arkansas State University in Jonesboro has announced a lineup of events to celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month, running from September 15 through October 14. The month-long programming highlights Hispanic and Latino cultures, traditions, and histories while fostering community engagement on and off campus.

“Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the richness of Hispanic and Latine cultures, honor their stories and traditions which connect us, and recognize the strength found in community,” said Dr. Latika Johnson, A-State’s director of multicultural affairs.

Organized by a dedicated committee, the events are a collaborative effort involving A-State’s Hispanic and Latino Faculty and Staff Association, Hermana Y Hermano (HYH), the Beta Xi Chapter of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc., the Multicultural Center, the Student Activities Board (SAB), and community partners including Always Jonesboro, Jonesboro Unlimited, and El Centro Hispano.

The theme for this year’s celebration, “Unidos Somos Más” (Together We Are More), underscores the importance of learning from one another, embracing shared experiences, and celebrating differences. A range of activities and events are planned to bring students, faculty, staff, and the broader Jonesboro community together.

Highlights include:

- **Kickoff Celebration:** Today at 11 a.m. in the Reng Student Union food court. Attendees can learn about the month's events while enjoying festivities and connecting with the community.

- **Nuestras Raíces:** Tonight from 6–8 p.m. in Centennial Hall, Reng Student Union. This event features food, music, and activities celebrating the cultural influences and shared stories of Hispanic and Latino communities. Hosted by the Student Activities Board, HYH, and the Multicultural Center.

- **Meet Me at the MC – Unidos, Somos Más:** A lunchtime gathering on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 12–1 p.m. in the Multicultural Center to explore Hispanic cultures and traditions.

- **Puertas al Futuro (Opening Doors to Opportunity):** Scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, at 10 a.m. at El Centro Hispano, this event facilitates conversations about community, language, and identity while addressing stigmas and promoting understanding. Open to the public.

- **Heritage Month Information Tables:** Located in the Student Union food court on Sept. 21, 28, and Oct. 5 and 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., these tables provide details on upcoming programs and ways to get involved.

- **Entre Nosotros:** A networking event on Monday, Sept. 28, at 6 p.m. in the Multicultural Center, connecting students with Hispanic and Latino professionals and community leaders.

- **Unidos Somos Más – Spin. Share. Unite.:** On Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Union food court, participants can engage with the campus community through interactive activities.

- **Caliente Conversations:** Join discussions about culture, education, and life, paired with snacks and musical bingo, on Thursday, Oct. 1, from 6–8 p.m. in Centennial Hall, Reng Student Union. Hosted by SAB, HYH, and the Beta Xi Chapter of Sigma Iota Alpha.

- **Songs and Stories – Nuestras Voces:** Celebrate music and storytelling on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 6 p.m. in the Grand Hall of Fowler Center.

- **La Gozadera – Latin Night:** Enjoy music and dancing with a live DJ on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 7–10 p.m. at The Lounge at Huntington Square. Open to the public.

- **Lotería Night:** A night of games, prizes, and friendly competition on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at 6 p.m. in Centennial Hall, Reng Student Union. Hosted by HYH and the Beta Xi Chapter of Sigma Iota Alpha.

- **¡Vamos a bailar!:** Concluding the month’s festivities with Latin dance lessons and an evening of music on Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 5 p.m. in the Health, Physical Education, and Sport Science Building, Room 301. Open to the public.

For more information on individual events, contact Arkansas State University’s Multicultural Center.