by Samantha Hauff

Presbyterian College’s Hispanic Appreciation Organization is the life of Hispanic culture, events, and education on campus, accepting members of both Hispanic descent and those simply interested in the culture.

Professor of Spanish Dr. Sharon Knight is the advisor for HAO student leaders and helps with the logistics of putting on events.

“The HAO celebrates and promotes Hispanic culture and fosters inclusivity and cultural awareness on campus,” she said.

Though Dr. Knight is the sounding board for the group, its student leaders are the driving force of the organization. Students like HAO president Cecilia Perez Santiago, a student of Mexican descent, take charge of coordinating meetings and planning events with the help of an executive board.

“Besides the typical responsibilities that come with a leadership position, I also try to educate myself on other Hispanic cultures than my own to ensure that all Hispanic cultures are represented in our events,” Perez Santiago said. “I think my role can be seen as an educator that bridges the Hispanic community at PC with the rest of the students and staff.”

Events are the core of the HAO, with interactive events available monthly, the HAO sees a high level of engagement from all kinds of students on campus.

The HAO hosts film screenings, dance parties, speakers, and other cultural events. A notable honoring event of families who have passed was the ofrenda inside of the Student Center where students could honor their loved ones at the altar for Dia De Los Muertos. Food is also very popular at these events as students can try different foods from different cultures.

One of the favorite events of the HAO members was the raffle for the Mexico v. Ghana soccer game at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. last fall.

“I loved all the events we have hosted this school year, but my favorite would have to be attending the Mexico v. Ghana soccer game as a closure to our celebrations for Hispanic Heritage month at P,” said Perez Santiago. “It’s the first time that the club and school has truly celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, so having that event as a closure was so special to me.”

Hispanic heritage is a robust part of the fabric of PC. The HAO lifts the voices of these students in a fun and accessible way to the entire PC community.

“Recognizing the diverse contributions of the Hispanic community in the arts and humanities, as well as in science, politics, and sports, can help address issues of social justice and equality and dispel stereotypes,” said Knight.

As the Hispanic community continues to grow at PC, celebrating it not only reminds Hispanic students where they came from, but also fosters a sense of tolerance and understanding from all students at PC.

Hispanic Appreciation Organization Executive Officers:

• President – Cecilia Perez Santiago, a junior from Clinton
• Vice President – Johannah Bodkin, a senior from Summerville
• Social Media Chair – Briana Santiago-Swindell, a senior from Rincon, Ga.