Hispanic Heritage Month

This week marks the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 - October 15. This is a time set apart to recognize and celebrate the important contributions, achievements, cultures, and histories of the Hispanic community.  I invite the RCCD community to learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month and actively participate. 

At the Riverside Community College District, we are honored to have three colleges designated Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) by the United States Department of Education. Moreno Valley College with 60% Hispanic student enrollment, Norco College with 58% Hispanic student enrollment; and Riverside City College with 64% Hispanic Student enrollment. RCCD is ranked 4th nationwide among 2-year colleges serving Hispanic students. RCCD continues to show the Inland Empire and the state of California that we are a model for Hispanic student success with robust educational opportunities, engagement activities, and degree attainment. 

Recognizing diverse cultures is not confined to a specific time of year, but we use designated times to celebrate and acknowledge what makes us unique. Hispanic Heritage Month is our time to learn and participate in the conversations about Latinx contributions to our society. We can get involved in the cultural activities hosted at each RCCD campus, and honor those in our community who have challenged inequality and paved the way for future generations.  With diverse faculty, leadership, and classified professionals, many of whom are of Hispanic descent, we ensure our students have the role models and mentors they need. 

It is important for all of us to understand and embrace the rich diversity of people surrounding us. Hispanic culture is multi-faceted and diverse with traditions inherited from a vast assortment of nationalities and communities, each with their own traditions. This month we can learn something new, and perhaps gain some new perspective and appreciation for this region's Hispanic heritage. May all of us enjoy this special month-long celebration.​

Wolde-Ab Isaac, Ph.D. 
RCCD Chancellor 

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