Hispanic Heritage Month Conversation Series
In our newest Conversation Series, we highlight and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Between September 15 and October 15, we will share conversations with a selection of Region IV members who identify as Hispanic.
Episode 3
In Episode 3, we chat with Sineyda Ortiz of the University of Texas-Arlington and Armando Espinoza of Kansas State University. They talk about their pathway to recreation – “by accident” or by being “at the rec a lot.” Sineyda and Armando discuss the experience and sacrifices of their families to help each get to where they are today before talking about their sources of inspiration and mentorship in the field of recreation. Finally, Sineyda and Armando share some advice for aspiring professionals.
You can connect with our participants via e-mail here:
- Sineyda Ortiz
- Armando Espinoza
- Belinda Sanchez – Facilitator
About Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month began in the late 1960s as a celebration of American citizens whose ancestry can be traced back to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean (What is Hispanic Heritage Month, Time Magazine, 2017). Initially only a week long, it expanded to a full month in the late 1980s.
Instead of starting at the beginning of a month, the start date has significance. September 15th marks the independence day for five Latin American countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatamala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The independence day for Mexico (16th), Honduras (18th) and Belize (21st) are close the 15th as well.
According to the official website for National Hispanic Heritage Month, Hispanic Heritage Month “pays tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.”
