CUFO Staff Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Personal stories, food, and comradery shared in event organized by Equity & Inclusion Council
On Friday, October 6, staff from across Columbia University Facilities and Operations (CUFO) gathered in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Organized by the CUFO Equity & Inclusion Council, the event featured a panel discussion with staff, along with food, music, and an opportunity to socialize.
Annette Lopes (Human Resources) facilitated the discussion with panelists including Brian Garcia-Tolentino (Operations), Jaime Rodriguez (Public Safety), Michael Roman (Human Resources), and Xiomara De Sousa (Finance and Administration).
Panelists reflected on their family influences, work experience, and the CUFO values of P.R.I.D.E.
Jaime shared an early memory of his hero Jose Feliciano, who left him feeling proud and inspired when he sang the National anthem in 1968 at the start of game 5 of the Detroit Tigers versus St Louis Cardinals World Series.
Xiomara noted during the event that “...being proud of my Dominican heritage means celebrating diversity, embracing differences, and standing tall in the face of adversity.”
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Slide 1: Panelists reflected on their heritage, family and work during the discussion.
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Slide 2: Attendees from the Columbia Housing and Lerner Operations team face off in a game of Dominoes.
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Slide 3: Attendees were treated to delicious desserts, like Flan.
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Slide 4: The menu included Esquites (Corn Salad) and Ceviche.
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Slide 5: Annette Lopes (Human Resources) was the panel facilitator.
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Slide 6: Members of CUFO enjoyed time together.
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Slide 7: Members of CUFO enjoyed time together.
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Slide 8: Members of the Equity & Inclusion Council at the event.
Columbia Dining provided an amazing spread of treats including, homemade Empanadas, Esquites (Corn Salad), Ceviche, Tres Leches cake, Flan, Sopapillas and Arepa Dulce de Maiz.
Michael shared that serving as a panelist "...was a powerful reminder to acknowledge our diverse cultures. I hope it inspires all our staff communities to engage in the opportunity to also share their heritage.” Said Brian of the event and council initiative, “You owe it to your younger self to enact the change your wished for.”
About National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latinx Americans. Learn more.
About the Equity & Inclusion Council
The E&I Council is led by CUFO employees and works to increase feelings of inclusion, encourage individual and collective growth through networking opportunities, professional development, and other resources, and create a more welcoming and belonging environment for all our community members.