Flag Raising Kicks Off Hispanic Heritage Month at NCC

Northampton Community College (NCC) officially kicked off its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month with a flag raising ceremony on September 17 at the Bethlehem campus. NCC Pocono will also hold a flag raising ceremony on September 30 at the Pocono campus. 

“Our diversity is our strength,” said Marc Singer, provost. “We are proud that 32 percent of our students share this proud Hispanic heritage.”   

Singer also noted that NCC is a Hispanic-Serving Institution, according to the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard. This designation is awarded to colleges and universities where at least 25 percent of full-time equivalent undergraduate students identify as Hispanic or Latino. 

James Colón, associate professor of counseling, shared the significance of the Flag of the Hispanic People, which was designed in 1932 by a Uruguayan army captain. The white background symbolizes peace, while the purple crosses represent the ships of Christopher Columbus and the language of Spain. The rising sun is reminiscent of the indigenous god Inti and signifies renewal.  

Elba Carides, professor of counseling and chair of NCC’s Hispanic Caucus, and Gina Turner, executive director of diversity, equity, and inclusion, joined Singer in offering welcoming remarks. Dennis Sierra, dual enrollment pathways liaison, and Rosa Ferguson, director of financial aid, read the Governor’s Proclamation recognizing Hispanic and Latino contributions to Pennsylvania in Spanish and English, respectively.  

Student members of NCC’s Hispanic American Cultural Club (HACC) assisted with raising the flag, which will fly in the Quad throughout Hispanic Heritage Month.  

The official flag raising was followed by celebratory music and culturally-inspired food catered by Frances Quinones Mullen ’26, owner of Panchita’s Kitchen. 

NCC’s Hispanic Caucus and HACC are planning events throughout the month that honor the rich culture and significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans through the years. Hispanic Heritage Month officially runs from September 15-October 15.  

All Hispanic Heritage Month events are free and open to all. Events will be held from 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at the Bethlehem campus. The lineup includes:  

• Bachata, Merengue, and Salsa Lessons Part 1: Thursday, Sept. 24, in College Center 164. Due to limited space, registration is required.   
• Cafecito Conversations: Tuesday, Sept. 29, in College Center CCEI. Enjoy relaxed conversations over coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries.
  
• Bachata, Merengue, and Salsa Lessons Part 2: Thursday, Oct. 1, in College Center 164. Due to limited space, registration is required.
   
• Mexican Dance Workshop: Tuesday, Oct. 6, in College Center 220. Experience the Danza de los Pescadores (Dance of the Fishermen), honoring indigenous identity, nature, and Mexican coastal heritage. 
   
• Lotería and Dominoes Game Day: Thursday, Oct. 15, in College Center 160. Try your hand at traditional games with popcorn, candy, drinks, and prizes.  

To see additional events that may be added throughout the month, visit northampton.edu/events.