Elon University honors the impactful histories, thriving culture and important culture of the Latinx and Hispanic community in the United States.
Elon University’s CREDE and El Centro welcomes students, faculty and staff to participate in events honoring Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM). The month-long celebration extends from Sept. 10 through Oct. 18, giving space for the community to learn, enjoy and appreciate the beauty of all Latinx and Hispanic cultures.
President Ronald Reagan signed the law changing Hispanic Heritage Week to Hispanic Heritage Month on August 17, 1988. Americans now observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept.15th to Oct. 15th. Many Latin American nations including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua share their independence anniversaries on Sept. 15, making it the perfect start for Hispanic Heritage Month. Mexico and Chile also share their independence on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18.
This anticipated celebration, not only shines a spotlight on the richness, history and triumphs of the Latinx/Hispanic community, also allows the Elon Community to acknowledge the struggles and individualized stories of the community.
Hispanic Heritage Month 2025 events at Elon
Paletas En El Patio
Monday, Sept. 15 | Outside of Mosely Kitchen | 4:30 p.m.
Come learn more about the Latinx-Hispanic Union, and their signature event, La Habana, while enjoying yummy paletas.
Hispanic Heritage Month Book Display
Sept. 15th – October 5th, 2025 | Belk Library
Come check out books written by Latinx/Hispanic authors, as well as audiobooks on the Libby app.
Elon Common Reading Lecture with Alejandra Campoverdi
Thursday, Sept. 18 | Alumni Gym, Koury Athletic Center | 7 p.m.
Alejandra Campoverdi is a nationally recognized advocate for educational opportunity and women’s health, a bestselling author, founder and former White House aide to President Barack Obama. Her book, “FIRST GEN” won the Dolores Huerta Award from the International Latino Book Awards, which also named Campoverdi its 2024 Rising Star in Nonfiction. In 2024, Campoverdi founded the First Gen Fund, a nonprofit that provides hardship grants to first-gen students. She produced the groundbreaking PBS health documentary “Inheritance” and founded the LATINOS & BRCA awareness initiative in partnership with Penn Medicine’s Basser Center for BRCA. Previously, Campoverdi served in the Obama White House as deputy director of Hispanic media.
Tickets are $15 or free with an Elon ID.
Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Festival
Friday, Sept.19 | Medallion Plaza, Lakeside area | 5:30 p.m.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize and honor the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the United States.
This celebration highlights the diverse cultural traditions, achievements and lasting impact of Hispanic and Latinx individuals across various fields, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their vital role in shaping American society. We will have food, vendors and performances!
La Habana
Friday, Sept. 19 | Taphouse | 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
The Latinx-Hispanic Union is throwing their semesterly dance party with great Latinx music and free food!
Noche Latina
Tuesday, Sept. 30 | Elon Soccer Field | 7 p.m.
An afternoon of fun, music and soccer as we cheer on Elon’s Soccer Team. Announcements are made in both English and Spanish.
Cafe con Leche with Friends
Thursday, Oct. 2nd | Irazu Coffee Shop | 5:30 – 7 p.m.
A night of karaoke with LHU, First Gen and El Centro! There will be food and lots of music!
Graduate Ice Cream Social
Thursday, Oct. 2nd | Legends Ice Cream & Churros (4925 W Market St STE 1100, Greensboro)| 6 – 8 p.m.
Have fun for a night of ice cream and socializing with other Latinx/Hispanic graduate students.
Vamos a La Cocina
Wednesday, Oct. 8 | El Centro Kitchen | 3:30 p.m.
This is El CEntro’s hands-on cooking series designed to celebrate and share the rich culinary heritage of LatinX/Hispanics cultures. Each session focuses on creating traditional dishes while fostering community and cultural appreciation. RSVPs are required to attend.
Perspectivas: Deliberative Dialogue
Thursday, Oct. 9 | El Centro (Carlton 114)| 6 – 7 p.m.
An educational program focusing on student perspectives and deliberative dialogue, in collaboration with Kernodle Center.
Late Night Cafe con Leche with ELHAN
Friday, Oct. 10 | El Centro (Carlton 114)| 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
ELHAN is hosting a late night cafe con leche for an opportunity to network with other Latinx/Hispanic community members.
Gala Latina
Friday, Oct. 24th | LaRose Commons | 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
This culminating event of Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates student success while highlighting the contributions and achievements of the Latinx/Hispanic community at Elon. Open to all students, faculty and staff, it serves as a space for empowerment, recognition and fostering a more inclusive campus environment.