As we settle into our fall semester routines, I hope everyone has had a great start to the academic year. Brenau has many events going on, including the celebration of National Latino-Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15.
This year, the national theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” a theme that resonates with me. As an institution of higher education, we aim to prepare our students to shape the future by challenging them to live extraordinary lives.
Brenau seeks to empower students from diverse backgrounds and equip them for success. We partner with a number of organizations to help provide transformative educational experiences. Brenau’s students and faculty work together with various groups to shape the future of our communities and the wider world.
For instance, 2024 marks the sixth consecutive year the Mexican Consulate in Atlanta has provided funding for scholarships for students of Mexican descent – who often are first-generation college students.
Through our Miller Institute for Global Education, we have ongoing partnerships with institutions in Costa Rica and Panama that facilitate study abroad and exchange programs for students and faculty here at Brenau and at the partner schools.
Of course, we also have events during the month to celebrate Hispanic Heritage, including an exhibit from world-renowned Cuban artist Alexi Torres in our Castelli Gallery.
As we mark this important month, Brenau remains focused on fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging for every member of the university community. I am pleased that we have made significant progress on the initiatives related to this strategic goal, and I appreciate your dedication to ensuring we achieve it.
You hear more by listening to the September episode of my podcast, Brenau Insight: Conversations with the President. Previous episodes can be found on SoundCloud or by searching “Brenau Insight” on the Brenau website.
