Latino Student Union Celebrates Cultural Heritage with New Additions

TAKOMA PARK, Md. – Cindy Ming, executive assistant to the Vice President for Student Life at Washington Adventist University, recently reflected on the university’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, organized with the support of the Latino Student Union. The event featured a mariachi band, a new addition aimed at representing Mexican culture, and was met with enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and staff alike.

As the sponsor for the Latino Student Union, Ming coordinated with students to plan and execute the event. Her responsibilities included guiding students through various logistical aspects such as venue selection, decoration, and overall execution. “It’s my responsibility to guide, direct, assist students in planning, executing, decorating, and getting anything they need,” Ming shared.

One of this year’s standout elements was the inclusion of the mariachi band. “We brought in a mariachi band to represent the Mexican culture,” Ming explained, adding that this addition highlighted the campus’s diverse student body and fostered a deeper understanding of the university’s cultural fabric.

Reflecting on the impact of these celebrations, Ming emphasized that such events convey an important message about identity and inclusivity to the university community. “It tells the campus who we are. It gives them a little more in-depth definition of what our culture means to us,” she said.

Ming is also exploring ways to extend cultural appreciation beyond Hispanic Heritage Month. She is working closely with the Latino Student Union and other campus clubs to organize more events that showcase diverse traditions. This collaborative approach could see partnerships with groups such as the Black Student Union and other student organizations.

Ming encouraged students and departments to get involved in future cultural events by offering guidance, assistance with venue requests, or simply being willing to help. She noted the enthusiasm and generosity shown by faculty and staff, who contributed donations to help cover event costs. “I was pleasantly surprised and very much appreciative that every single person I asked donated much more than I had anticipated,” Ming said.

The willingness of faculty and staff to contribute demonstrated the strong value they place on the students’ experience and cultural expression at WAU.

From the university’s perspective, events like these are core to WAU’s mission of fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. “Washington Adventist University is deeply committed to celebrating the rich cultural heritage of our student body,” said Dr. Weymouth Spence, WAU President. “By honoring and sharing these diverse traditions, we cultivate a sense of belonging and mutual respect that strengthens our entire campus community. Our Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations are a testament to this commitment, and we look forward to continuing to support our students in expressing and sharing their unique backgrounds.”

For Ming, the evening was a celebration not only of cultural traditions but also of unity and support across the university. “Music is a huge part of our culture, no matter which country you come from,” she said, adding that the mariachi band was a highlight of the night.