Celebrando la Herencia Hispana en Middlesex College

The tapestry of Middlesex College is woven with vibrant threads of diversity and culture that the College community takes pride in celebrating. One of the many student organizations that was forged upon this diversity is the Organization for Latino Unity (OLU), which strives to embolden and elevate the Latino/a/x leaders of tomorrow. 

“I’ve never been in such an environment like Middlesex College where everyone that you meet, whether it’s your peers, professors, all the way to the top at administration, are so incredibly supportive and empathetic,” said OLU President Chris Saavedra. “That support strikes at the very heart of what OLU does – inspire and mentor student leaders, while at the same time, being a hub to celebrate the cultural richness and diversity that defines the Latin American and Hispanic world.” 

Being the proud son of Mexican immigrants and identifying as indigenous as someone who comes from one of the indigenous peoples of Mexico, Saavedra says that pride of his cultural heritage is a defining part of who he is. And with about a third of the students who attend Middlesex College identifying as Hispanic, OLU hopes to uplift those students in their shared community. 

Jenifer Olvera, Middlesex College Admissions Technology and CRM Specialist, shares that one of the most rewarding parts of being the advisor for OLU is seeing the students bring their ideas to life and create a sense of belonging for others. 

 “As a first-generation Latina, Middlesex College alumnus, and advisor to OLU, I know how much it matters for students to see their cultures and experiences reflected on campus,” said Olvera. “OLU gives students a space to celebrate who they are, build friendships, and grow as leaders.” 

OLU hosted a series of events on campus in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated September 15 through October 15. The events included a Hispanic trivia night and Cafecito Con Coping—an event designed to demystify mental health, encourage healthy coping strategies, and connect students with available resources. 

“Unfortunately, mental health is a topic that is often overlooked and not treated with the seriousness that it deserves,” said Saavedra. “So the event is an open space to discuss experiences with mental health and where students can find resources, whether on campus or elsewhere, to navigate whatever situation they are in and help them cope in a healthy way. There’s a big difference between going to a therapist or resorting to alcohol and drugs. We want to make that distinction clear: the struggles you are facing are valid, but also that there are resources open to you, and people who care about you who want to see you get better.” 

The organization plans to continue hosting a wide variety of events that provide professional, personal, and academic opportunities to students throughout the school year. Saavedra hopes that through his role in OLU, he can help fellow students grow personally, academically, and find their community at Middlesex College. 

“I am very fortunate to have this opportunity to continue on being the spark that can ignite the flame within my peers and be the best version of themselves that I know they can be.” 

Interested students can be added to the Organization of Latino Unity email list by filling out the form on the Student Life club webpage: https://middlesexcollege.edu/student-life/clubs-and-organizations/