Mission Statement
The Office of the Assistant Dean of Intercultural Education and Latinx Advisor Office serves the Wellesley College community in the following capacity:
1. The Latinx Advisor Office serves as a resource for all Latinx students on campus.
2. The Latinx Advisor advocates for and supports the needs of Latinx students on campus. She provides resources and advising for Latinx Students to address a variety of personal, social, academic and community concerns. She also provides leadership consultation, referrals, and information on internships and scholarships.
3. The office promotes appreciation and understanding of Latin American cultures and offers programs and training that focus on the many facets of multicultural development. She works with the entire campus community to raise awareness of the benefits and challenges of living in a pluralistic community.
4. One of the goals of the office is to inform and educate the campus community about the value of diversity to promote cross-cultural dialogue by encouraging students to value and cherish the contributions of people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
5. The Advisor develops initiatives and programs that support the social, personal and educational experiences of Latinx Students.
6. The Advisor offers advice to Latinx student organizations and works very closely with the Latinx leaders in this campus. Everyone can join the Latinx groups on campus. We have four Latinx groups at Wellesley; Mezcla the largest organization on campus mainly composed of US Latinx students, Alianza, a Latinx organization whose members mainly are Latinx International students, Cielito Lindo a Latin dance group organization and Familia dedicated to the support of LGBTQ students of Latinx descent. The Advisor also assists student leaders in coordinating events, workshops and programs.
Signature Events
The Advisor to Latinx Students hosts two major celebrations each fall. The first occurs every November when we celebrate El dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a Mexican celebration in which we remember to celebrate the life and legacy of those who are no longer with us. Another important celebration is Parrandas. Each December we embrace this winter holiday by singing traditional carols, dancing to live Latin music, sharing a rich feast and visiting with friends and colleagues. Both celebrations are steeped in tradition and have distinct Latin influences but are open to the entire Wellesley College community!
Study Break
During finals period, Wellesley students can feel overwhelmed and anxious about the successful completion of their final papers and exams. Thus, the Advisor to Latinx students organizes Fall and Spring study breaks so students can take the time to relax by participating in crafts, learning about stress reduction techniques, eating delicious food and enjoying massages provided by professional massage therapists.
Latinx Month
To commemmorate Latinx Month, The Advisor to Latinx Students produces a calendar of events every April that is co-sponosored by various groups in the Wellesley community. Some of these include the Latinx Cultural Show, Alumnae Panel and Employee Appreciation Dinner. We always invite a Latinx keynote speaker to kickoff the month and to ensure the success of our programs, we involve students in the planning, advertising and execution of our key events.
Latinx Senior Dinner
Before the senior class graduates and begins a new stage of their lives, a dinner is held for all students of Latinx descent for their visiting family and friends.
Other events are scheduled on a rolling basis throughout the academic year and can be found by visiting our events calendar.
Latinx New Student Guide
Every year, a new student guide is created to serve as a comprehensive list of important information pertaining to our Latinx students, their affiliated organizations, and students, faculty and Latinx staff. Click here to download the guide!
Social Networking
Want another way to stay up-to-date on Latinx events, updates, and happenings? Check out our social media accounts!
As a Facebook-friend of the Latinx Advisors Office, you'll receive announcements, news, and event updates straight from the Advisor to Latinx Students.
Check out our Instagram page for updates on events and insights from members of the Latina community - @mared_alicea_westort