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Ð԰ɵ¼º½ Students Win Scholarships at Conclusion of Hispanic Heritage Month

Arts and Sciences | Featured | First Generation | Health Education and Human SciencesOctober 16, 2024
Ð԰ɵ¼º½ celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Salsa at the Bell Tower and a fashion show of traditional Hispanic dress

Traditional Hispanic dress was worn during a fashion show at Salsa at the Bell Tower

Written By: Ian Silvester

As Hispanic Heritage Month ended, the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith wrapped up a month of events with the annual favorite, Salsa at the Bell Tower. Two Ð԰ɵ¼º½ students left the event with new memories and $1,000 richer.

During a recent interview, Hispanic Heritage Month Planning Committee marketing and scholarship manager Cristina Castorena said two names would be randomly selected to award each student a $1,000 scholarship. The two chosen are current Ð԰ɵ¼º½ students, Fatima Perez-Rodriguez and Yvette Tolentino.

Fatima, a nursing freshman, attended the kick-off to Hispanic Heritage Month, Cafecito con Pan Dulce, for a pick-me-up that “was just what I needed,� the First-Generation Latino Professionals panel discussion, and Salsa at the Bell Tower.

After finding out she was awarded a scholarship, Fatima reflected on the moment, saying:

“It’s motivating to know that my efforts are recognized, and I’m eager to make the most of this opportunity. I’m extremely grateful to Ð԰ɵ¼º½ for organizing events that support the Hispanic student population and for providing assistance to help us pay for our studies.â€�

However, as a first-generation student, she found the panel discussion the most impactful event hosted by Ð԰ɵ¼º½.

“I wanted to learn how they navigated their journeys, seek advice, and connect over the shared struggles we face as first-generation students. Their experiences resonated with me and reminded me that I’m not alone in my doubts,� Fatima shared.

Yvette is a junior double major studying chemistry and psychology. During Hispanic Heritage Month, she attended several events hosted by the , a registered student organization that strives to promote Latin culture and a diverse university to support all Ð԰ɵ¼º½ students, and Salsa at the Bell Tower with friends.

The latter decision will help her as she nears the end of her education at Ð԰ɵ¼º½.

“(The scholarship) is a huge help for me, especially as I balance my studies and involvement in campus activities,� she said. “It will allow me to focus more on my academic goals without the financial burden.�

Both students were eager to praise Ð԰ɵ¼º½ and the university’s commitment to celebrating the culture and heritage of all students.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a meaningful time to celebrate our culture, reflect on the struggles and contributions of our community, and share that pride with others,� Yvette said.

“For me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize the hard work of Latinos in our community, especially our parents, who left everything behind to build a better future,� Fatima said.

Media Relations

The Ð԰ɵ¼º½ Office of Communications fields all media inquiries for the university. Email Rachel.Putman@uafs.edu for more information.

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Rachel Rodemann Putman

  • Director of Strategic Communications
  • 479-788-7132
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