UNC Pembroke hosted its annual Hispanic Heritage Fall Festival on September 18, 2024.  Dr. Ana Cecilia Lara, Professor and Director of World Languages, opened the festival and participants were greeted by representatives from Sigma Delta Pi, Olé, and Acto Latino.  Sponsored by the Department of English, Theatre, & World Languages, the event featured various musical and dance performances.  Students from Dr. Natalie Love’s Spanish 3200 class also staged a theatre performance.

“Every fall, we look forward to hosting our Hispanic Heritage Festival, an event in which students participate in a variety of activities to celebrate Hispanic culture such as: table decorating, singing, dancing, playing instruments, acting in performances, and competing in trivia. It is always a memorable experience in which students, faculty, and staff collaborate in the planning of this special event that honors Hispanic heritage,” Dr. Love said. 

Students, faculty and staff joined together in a Chacarera Dancing Demonstration led by Dr. Eun Hee Jeon.  Laughter filled the University Center Annex as festival attendees celebrated Hispanic food, culture and community. 

“Once again, we were able to celebrate our Hispanic Heritage Fall Festival here at UNC Pembroke! These types of events make us feel proud of our Hispanic roots. We know that cultural programs are the best way to bring us together; barriers are broken when cultures are embraced. I want to thank everyone who supported us to make this event successful,” Dr. Lara said.

Nearly 100 students, faculty and staff participated in the event.