Faculty, staff, students, and their families gathered for an evening filled with cultural traditions, lively music, and a strong sense of community as the Heersink School of Medicine Office of Access & Engagement hosted its inaugural Hispanic Heritage Month Commemoration at University Tacos, located on 5th Avenue North.
The event kicked off at 5:30 p.m., welcoming attendees into a vibrant dining area that featured an expansive taco and nacho bar, offering a delicious spread for guests to enjoy as they mingled.
Marcela Frazier, O.D., leader of the UAB Hispanic and Latin American Faculty Association, opened the event with warm remarks, followed by Leisha Hultgren, Ph.D., Program Director for Access & Engagement, who encouraged guests to continue the celebration upstairs. There, traditional Hispanic decorations, two photo walls, a large dance floor, and a DJ playing a mix of Hispanic music set the stage for a spirited celebration. Guests were invited to request songs throughout the evening and taste crafted drinks prepared by the restaurant staff while enjoying the commemoration.
The evening was more than just a festive gathering; it was an opportunity to honor and celebrate the contributions of Hispanic and Latinx health care providers within the Heersink community. “[I most enjoyed the] effort to place value on our Hispanic Heritage and having an event that celebrates the beauty of the Heersink School of Medicine and our community,” one attendee shared. “It makes a statement and means so much to medical students when a large caliber event like this is executed and prioritized as a must each year.”
The shared moments of dancing, conversation, and connection reflected the significance of coming together to honor the cultural heritage of the Hispanic and Latinx communities.
Please enjoy the album of photos from the event.
Looking ahead: AMWA lecture on October 17
Later this month, the Heersink Office of Access & Engagement invites all faculty, staff, and students to the next American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) lecture on October 17 at noon. Chrystal Rutledge, M.D., will present “From Vision to Reality: Developing the Children’s of Alabama Community Healthcare Education Simulation (COACHES) Program.” This lecture will explore the development and impact of COACHES, a groundbreaking program aimed at advancing medical education through simulation-based learning.
To register for the event, click here.