|
Special
Programs and Community Outreach
El Centro delivers unique programs
that reflect the special needs of students. Some programs
have remained instrumental and have become institutionalized.
Some programs are specifically structured in order for
students to contribute to the progress of the Latino community.
Latino Floors La Luna y El Sol
This residential program began in the 1974-75 academic year as a housing option
for students interested in Latino culture. Today, the Latino Floors residential
program is an option offered to first year students looking to connect with
other students with similar interest; and/or cultural backgrounds. The goal
of the Latino Floors is to create and promote a positive and supportive atmosphere
that eases the transition of Latino students into USC life. Programming within
the Latino Floor, promotes and celebrates the Latino culture. Monthly activities
may include a cultural presentation, an ethnic meal prepared by residents,
or the opportunity to meet community and campus leaders to discuss issues of
special interest to Latinos. Students who live on the Latino Floors are naturally
drawn towards involvement, while continuously challenging themselves academically.
The Latino Floors also serve as a launching pad for students to start their
Trojan networking. Diversity is welcomed and celebrated on the Latino Floors.
Latino Parent Association
In 1982, the Latino Parent Association was founded as an organization dedicated
to addressing issues directly affecting Latino families. Among its many
unique qualities, the LPA is a group that advocates involvement in parent/student
related issues. The LPA has traditionally taken an active role in assisting
to organize and raise funds to sponsor activities and events. Each year
the Latino Parents Association hosts the "Menudo Bowl", a fundraiser
during USC's homecoming football game. Profits from the "Menudo Bowl" support
student activities. The LPA also serves as a resource for parents and students.
The monthly meetings include discussions and presentations about opportunities
and additional resources from throughout the university.
Annual Chicano/Latino Graduation
Celebration
The Latina/o Student Assembly and El Centro invites
all graduating students to participate in the annual Chicano/Latino
Graduation. All undergraduates, graduate and professional
students who are completing a degree in Spring, Summer, or
Fall terms are invited to participate. This is a ceremony
that celebrates the accomplishments of Latino students combined
with culture and family.
Campus Visits
As a service to the community, El Centro offers campus visits to students from
the surrounding community. Campus visits are available to all age groups;
however El Centro Chicano does make an extra effort to accommodate groups
of high school juniors and seniors. Visiting groups schedule a date and
time for an official USC tour through the admissions Center. El Centro
provides supplemental aspects to the visits. Prospective students have
the opportunity to ask questions and obtain information on admission requirements
to USC and resources available to Latino students. Current USC students
are also available to discuss their experiences and transition to university
life. Through these campus visits, El Centro continues its commitment to
the community and academic excellence.
Latino Ambassadors for Student
Empowerment
Student ambassadors serve as representatives and volunteers for El Centro.
Throughout the year, local community organizations and USC departments may
call on El Centro for student volunteers or representatives. Latino student
ambassadors not only serve as volunteers to El Centro, but are also responsible
for representing the Latino student population at various events.
A Home Away From Home
El Centro extends itself to students as being much more than a Student affairs
department. For many students El Centro remains a home.
The majority of the staff at
El Centro are undergraduate students pursuing their degree
in a variety of majors. Students employed at El Centro
are responsible for most aspects of the department. They
become involved with the design and conception of programming
by bringing forth issues, ideas and suggestions. Student
staff members learn time management and organizational
skills through practical experience in programming planning.
Student organizations also find
El Centro to be a home. They not only receive mail and
messages here, they have access to the entire facility;
meeting rooms, photocopying, and other office amenities.
Commuter/Transfer students, as well as
residential students, have found that El Centro welcomes
them throughout the day. The lounge is a perfect location
for studying, watching television, or taking a power nap.
A full size refrigerator and microwave also allows for students
to have inexpensive and healthy eating habits. All students
have access to computers with internet connections.
Cesar Chavez Mural
Through support of the Latino Parents Association, the United University Church,
and the community, El Centro Chicano dedicated a mural to United Farm Worker
founder Cesar E. Chavez. The mural was a collaborative effort and was dedicated
in 1996. Alfredo Davalos, the artist depicts the life and principles of
Chavez through images of other non-violent leaders and the work of the
farm laborers. The mural is located in the Jose Carlos Lecture Hall within
the facilities of El Centro Chicano.
|
