In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the University of Hartford hosted a panel discussion on September 25 entitled "Experiencing Belonging: Share Your Story," with three inspiring guests who shared personal experiences, inspirations, and perspectives.
The event, held in the Shaw Center, welcomed Sinthia Sone-Moyano, deputy commissioner for educational supports and wellness for the State of Connecticut; Mario Oquendo, Jr., chief of staff and public information officer for the Hartford Fire Department; and Marissa Perez Cardona, a college and career coordinator with the Meriden Public Schools.
The goal was to explore what factors affect the sense of belonging for members of the Hispanic community. Noel Casiano, associate professor of psychology and human services, moderated the discussion, asking questions designed to identify common denominators that help foster inclusion in personal and professional lives.
All three guests said their parents were their first influences in creating a sense of belonging. Having self-respect, focusing on goals, working hard, serving others, and developing a good circle of friends and associates were among the values they said have been important throughout their lives.
The event also featured the presentation of the inaugural Inclusive Excellence Hispanic Heritage Month Award, honoring the achievements and contributions of members of the Hispanic community. In addition to the three panelists, three other recipients of the award were: Karen Ivette Tejada-Peña, associate professor of sociology and social science at Hillyer College; Jason T. Martinez, associate university counsel at UHart; and Diego Alberto Rojas, a UHart sophomore studying politics who is active in student government.