Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Culture, Family, and Community

Each year from September 15 to October 15, Central Catholic joins communities across the nation in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month—a time to honor the traditions, cultures, and countless contributions of Latino and Hispanic students, alumni, and families.

At Central Catholic, the Latino Student Union (LSU) serves a vibrant space for connection and pride. Through leadership, shared stories, and celebration, LSU continues to strengthen a culture of belonging that extends far beyond the month itself.

For Allyson Juarez-Barron '26, being part of the Latino community means honoring her roots and keeping her heritage alive. "It means sharing my culture and keeping my heritage alive through culture," she says. Her background has helped shape her identity and deepen her curiosity about her ancestors and their stories.

That shared sense of pride and discover is something Melissa Vargas-Renteria '26 also values deeply. "Being a part of the Latino/Hispanic community means forming a family where all of us understand each other and are there for support," she shares. "By being a part of this amazing community, I learn something new every day about my roots and my ancestors who have paved the way in order for me to be the person I am today. La Raza is my home."

Representation, both in and beyond the classroom, plays an important role in helping students feel seen and valued. Mario Martinez-Ibarra '26 reflects, "It's important to show my roots and show where you come from."

That sense of connection and visibility lies at the heart of LSU's mission, to celebrate and uplift Latino and Hispanic voices all year long. "I want our voices to be heard and be able to express our culture, especially at a PWI," says Melissa. Allyson adds, "We can continue to celebrate and uplift Latino students by continuing to fight for the right things and being the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves."

Family, compassion, and resilience remain at the core of their shared heritage. "I want people to know how hardworking every individual is," Allyson says. "There will never be a time when they won't open their homes to you and make you feel comfortable."

That same warmth and spirit of community have long defined the Central Catholic experience for many Latino students and alumni alike. Josue Corona-Solis '20 reflects, "I felt like I was one of the best versions of myself at Central Catholic." His words echo the impact of a community that encourages authenticity, growth, and pride in one's identity.

For alumni like Rizelda Hagerty '99, that sense of belonging continues to inspire. "Community is everything at Central Catholic," she says—a reminder that the values celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month are woven into the school's story year-round.