By james art Columbia University Irving Medical Center celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month this year with multiple events throughout the month. National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15 and recognizes the contributions of generations of Hispanic Americans to positively impact and enrich the United States and beyond. The theme of this year’s national celebration was “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.”
The month-long celebration kicked off on September 24 with the Hispanic Heritage Festival at Haven Plaza, featuring traditional food, dancing and live music. The event—hosted by the Office of Academic and Community Partnerships and the LatinX Employee Resource Group—aims to highlight the achievements made by the Hispanic community as well as provide an opportunity for attendees to learn about the history of Hispanic Heritage Month.
The Latin American Association of the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons held a networking reception on the occasion of the National Day of Latin American Physicians on October 1st. The event invited attendees, interns and medical students to connect, celebrate and build relationships with colleagues in various fields.
“We were proud to host our first National Day of the Latino Physician event,” said Ana Chapin, co-president of the VP&S Latino Association and assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology. “National Hispanic Doctor Day was created to celebrate and inspire the next generation of Hispanic and Latino physicians in the United States. Our association is committed to promoting the growth, presence and belonging of the VP&S Latino community to ultimately improve the health outcomes of the communities we serve.”
On October 15, the Department of Medicine hosted a panel discussion titled “Trailblazers Unidos: Healthcare Leaders Shaping the Future in Columbia/NYP and Beyond,” featuring healthcare leaders of Hispanic heritage representing multiple generations and disciplines. During the discussion, panelists shared their contributions to excellence in healthcare and the communities they serve. The event featured a special tribute to Rafael A. Lantigua, Associate Dean for Community Affairs and Professor of Medicine at VP&S, accompanied by vibrant cultural performances.
Finally, on October 18, students at the medical center hosted their own celebration in the ballroom at 50 Haven Ave. The Latin American Associations from all four schools at the medical center sponsored the event, offering students from VP&S, School of Nursing, Mailman School of Public Health and College of Dentistry to mingle and enjoy.