A Rhythmic Celebration: HOLA, Spanish Clubs Kick Off Hispanic Heritage Month

The Upper School Student Lounge came alive with the sounds and rhythms of Latin America as the HOLA Affinity Group, Spanish Club, and Spanish Class hosted a vibrant Hispanic Heritage Engagement Program on Monday, Sept. 29. The event brought together students and faculty to celebrate the rich cultures of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. 

HOLA Officers Isabelle Sotomayor ’27 and Ethan Axler ’26 welcomed everyone to the celebration and delivered the keynote speech. They highlighted the significance and history of Hispanic Heritage Month. Their address served as a reminder of the community, diversity, and contributions of Hispanic culture in American society.

The program then moved to a series of musical performances showcasing the diversity of Latin music. The Spanish IV Class, led by Justin Cobb, performed a beautiful rendition of the traditional Mexican folk song “De Colores.” Bella Weeks ’27 then shared a captivating solo performance of the song “Otra Vez” in the rhythm of salsa montuno.

The Honors Spanish II Class, under the direction of Luis Girón, then took the stage. They delivered a rhythmic performance of “Corazón Sin Cara,” perfectly executed in the romantic rhythm of Bachata.

The highlight of the event, and its finale, was the Latin Dance Mix. Girón led the room in an energetic mini-lesson, teaching the foundational steps of three iconic Latin dance styles – the smooth sway of Bachata, the vibrant spins of Salsa, and the lively bounce of Merengue. Students quickly filled the floor, laughing and moving to the infectious beat, transforming their Flex period into a dance party.

The Hispanic Heritage Engagement Program was a resounding success, fulfilling its goal of engaging the school community in a cultural and educational celebration. The students, faculty members, and sponsors who put the event together are grateful to everyone who participated in making the event memorable!