Colorado Springs, CO – September 11, 2024 – Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) is expanding its celebration of Hispanic culture with its first annual Hispanic Heritage Week from September 23-27, 2024, culminating in the second annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on Friday, September 27. The week-long series of events highlights the diverse contributions of the Hispanic community and PPSC’s commitment to fostering inclusivity. The media is invited to attend PPSC’s Second Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on Friday, September 27 from 11am-3pm on our Centennial Campus (5675 S Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs).

“This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Hispanic Heritage Week, a testament to our commitment to celebrating Hispanic culture and building community,” says Dr. Enrique Romo, Vice President of Student Experience and Equity.

The week-long celebration for PPSC faculty, staff and students includes activities like bilingual poetry readings, Zumba and a gallery of lesson plans from a Latino author on how to “decolonize the curriculum.” Hispanic Heritage week culminates with Fiesta Friday, featuring the second annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, which is open to the public. At last year’s inaugural festival, over 400 community members came together to enjoy live music and entertainment, cuisine from local businesses, and fellowship. Organizers of the festival hope to see even higher numbers this year.

"We are anticipating even larger crowds this year," says Andrea Hernandez, Director of Student Experience and Leadership at PPSC. "The response from the community has been incredibly supportive, and we expect to see more students and community members join us in celebrating the rich traditions and contributions of Hispanic culture."

Attendees can expect:

• Live music and dance performances by Proximo Nivel, Inoboiz, and Harrison High School Ballet Folklórico
• Traditional cuisine from local food trucks, including Maru’s Mexican Food, Tacos y Tamales Karleys, and Paletería Arcoiris
• Informational booths showcasing educational pathways and community resources for all attendees
• A show and shine featuring collector vehicles

PPSC’s Hispanic Heritage Week is a combined effort between the Latino Alliance, an affinity group at PPSC, Phi Theta Kappa, PPSC’s honor society, Grants Development Initiatives, and the Student Experience and Leadership department. Student organizers from each entity are leading the effort. 

This event is free and open to the public. Activities will be held from 11am-3pm in the atrium, courtyard and Lot D of Centennial Campus. For more information on the Hispanic Heritage Festival, please contact sel@pikespeak.edu.