Lawrence and Haverhill, MA (September 10, 2024) – Northern Essex Community College is preparing to honor Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) with several planned events. HHM is celebrated from September 15 through October 15 and recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.

In 2001, Northern Essex became New England’s first federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Of the current NECC student population, 47% identify as Hispanic, many with ties to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

The theme for National Hispanic Heritage Month is “Pioneers of Change,” which will be a thread through all the events planned at NECC.

Events:

Hispanic Heritage Month Opening Celebration

September 17, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Dimitry Building, 45 Franklin Street, Lawrence

We invite you to come together with NECC as we kick off Hispanic Heritage Month in style. Enjoy delicious Latin cuisine and be transported to Jalisco, Mexico with a live musical performance by Johanan Ruelas, an aspiring Mexican singer with a captivating voice.

Latinos in Leadership – Fidelity Investments

September 24, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
B Building, Room B218, Haverhill

Join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and Latino excellence with our speaker from Fidelity Investments. Rommel Espinal is the Vice President of Customer Inclusion, a UMass Lowell Alum, and a Honduran immigrant. In his presentation, he will speak about his leadership journey, his experience as a Latino in business, and how Fidelity supports its Latino employees and customers. Central American snacks will be provided.

Be Successful in Your Life & Career while Maintaining Your Identity

Thursday, September 26, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
B Building, Room 218, Haverhill

Join Eduardo Crespo, NECC alumnus and founder/CEO of Hispanic Market Solutions, for a workshop on preserving cultural identity in both life and career. In today’s society, many students and individuals face challenges with their identity, often feeling labeled as “foreign” or “different” due to their cultural background. This experience, which Eduardo has personally encountered, can affect your emotional well-being, quality of life, and career success. The dominant culture we live or study in can influence us both positively and negatively. Having a strong set of values can help us gain a broader perspective and navigate these challenges more effectively.

MWP Fest

September 27, 5:00 p.m. to September 29, 6:00 p.m.
Various Locations, Lawrence

​Northern Essex is proud to be a sponsor of the Minds With Purpose (MWP) Festival. MWP was founded by NECC alum Jeurys Santiago ’20. It is a consultancy and community organization dedicated to fostering growth, empowerment, and connection within diverse communities. The MWP Festival will celebrate education, health and wellness, entrepreneurship and innovation, community advocacy, and cultural heritage in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month. This event is a rich tapestry of learning and festivity, offering insightful conferences, workshops, and resources tailored to each theme. Engage with thought leaders, discover new perspectives, and cultivate meaningful connections in an inclusive and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dynamic performances, indulge in diverse culinary delights, and immerse yourself in cultural celebrations that honor Hispanic heritage.

For more information on this event, please visit the official MWP Fest website.

Hispanic Student Club
Tuesday, October 1, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
45 Franklin Street, Lawrence

Please join us for our 1st Hispanic Student Club meeting and get connected with other Latinx students.  Snacks will be provided. Los esperamos!

Hispanic Heritage Month Closing Fiesta

October 9, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Dimitry Building, 45 Franklin Street, Lawrence

Join NECC for a vibrant cultural celebration as we honor Hispanic heritage and raise awareness! Experience an exciting lineup of dance performances, live music, a DJ, delicious food, a raffle, and so much more. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun and festivities.

For more information about any of the events and to stay up-to-date on HHM celebrations, visit the webpage.