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This week began Latin and Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed through Oct. 15. As highlighted by the , the purpose is to celebrate the “histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.” I encourage you to created by University Libraries in recognition of this event. 

Celebrating the many cultures and communities within the College of Engineering and Applied Science is one way that we practice our commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming place for our students, faculty and staff. Another important way we do this is launching this month ­—the college’s inaugural Inclusive Culture Council, which Assistant Dean for Access, Inclusion and Student Programs Terri Wright announced last week. Thank you to the 23 faculty and staff from across the college who will be serving for the next two years. 

The council’s mission is to provide strategic leadership and transparency for cultivating an inclusive, equitable, interculturally competent and supportive environment in the college. One important area of focus will be supporting the College IDEA Plan Actions, which many of you are engaged in right now. I’m grateful for the thoughtfulness and dedication members of our college community have given to this endeavor and the progress that has already been made toward these goals.  

For more than 10 years, the BOLD Center has been at the heart of our commitment to creating a diverse environment where all engineering students are welcome. Following the renovation of the center last year, championed by alumnus Marco Campos (CivEngr’98) and his company, Campos EPC, the center will officially celebrate with a ribbon cutting event later this semester. The center has recently highlighted the stories of first-generation students such as Giovanni Hernandez and Damilola Akinneye and provides weekly “Power Hours,” such as this week’s lotería session, led by SHPE/MAES. 

As you may be aware, the campus is engaged in a collective reading of American Like Me, by America Ferrera. Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education Rhonda Hoenigman and Diane Sieber, director of the Herbst Program of Engineering, Ethics and Society, will be hosting a discussion group for the college starting in October. Look for an invitation to participate and consider creating time for this community reading and dialogue. 

Each of us can contribute to ��ƷSM����ӰƬ’s efforts to become a more diverse, equitable, inclusive and anti-racist university. Find what matters to you and make a difference. 

Sincerely,
Keith Molenaar 
Acting Dean

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