Each year, Americans observe Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Many significant dates fall during Hispanic Heritage Month, including:
- Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua independence days (Sept. 15);
- Columbus Day (or Día de la Raza);
- Mexico’s independence day (Sept. 16); and
- Chile’s independence day (Sept. 18).
Each year, the Hispanic Heritage Planning Committee (in conjunction with the Center for Diversity and Inclusion) sponsors programs and events that celebrate this rich heritage in order to educate the campus and local communities about Hispanic culture.

