Seton Hall's Latin Caucus Inauguration Shapes Collaboration

In a momentous occasion on January 26, 2024, Seton Hall University witnessed the inauguration of its first-ever Latin Caucus, a groundbreaking alliance among various Latinx organizations on campus. Spearheaded by the passionate leadership of the Latin Caucus Chair Maria Elena Lugo, the event marked a significant step towards fostering collaboration, resource-sharing and unity among the university's Latinx student body.

The Latin Caucus Inaugural Celebration, held at Bethany Hall, was a joyous gathering that brought together students, alumni and staff. Attendees were treated to an evening of jubilation, signifying the dawn of a new chapter for Seton Hall.

Maria Elena Lugo, a dedicated student pursuing a B.S. in Diplomacy and International Relations with a minor in Arabic, played a pivotal role in the formation of the Latin Caucus. In the post-pandemic college landscape, she identified a gap between the already established student organizations and the lack of Latinx camaraderie on campus. Supported by the Associate Director at the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute, Cristina Cosme, Maria Elena took the initiative and brought her vision to life. Her leadership resonated with many, paving the way for the successful establishment of the Caucus.

The Latin Caucus aims to reignite unfulfilled initiatives, engage alumni and foster partnerships and mutual support among Latinx organizations. Housed under the Latino Institute, it will serve as a platform to address these challenges collectively, pooling resources, expertise and connections. During the celebration, each Latinx organization president was awarded a certificate for their crucial role in the alliance.

The recognized presidents are:

- Amber Aragon from The Delta Chapter of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. 

- Samantha Berrios from Gamma Chapter of Chi Upsilon Sigma Latin Sorority, Inc.

- Davion Delgado from The Adamant Almirantes Chapter of Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity, Inc. 

- Sofia Diaz from Unidos Bailamos.

- Jerry Guaman from the Epsilon Chapter of Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc.  

- Yarumi Carhuallanqui from ALMA: Aspiring Latinos in Medicine Alliance.

- Joel Morales from ALPFA: Association of Latino Professionals for America.

- Sarai Romero from Adelante.

- Andrea Herrera from Prospanica.

Following the awards, the celebration featured a dance performance to open the dance floor, courtesy of Unidos Bailamos, a revitalized Latinx dance organization. The performance, led by Sofia Diaz and her dedicated board, added an electrifying element to the evening, setting the stage for more cultural expressions and community engagement. Maria Elena’s vision has not only filled a void but has also set the stage for a more connected, supportive and vibrant Latinx community at Seton Hall University. The Latin Caucus is poised to make a lasting impact, shaping the future of collaboration and unity.

Categories: Arts and Culture