Advancing Pedagogy
The new Honors College dean is creating opportunities for experiential learning.
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Celebrating Latine/x Heritage & Culture
We honor the histories, cultures and contributions of TU’s Caribbean, Central American, Mexican, South American and Spanish communities.
The world needs our perspectives.
Image courtesy of the Bailes de mi Tierra troupe
Celebrating the history, culture and contributions of TU’s Latine/x community highlights an accomplished and growing group of Tigers, acknowledges the challenges they’ve overcome to earn success and offers opportunities to connect with a proud and vibrant network of students, faculty, staff and alumni.
This page is a hub for resources, events and news related to TU’s Latine/x community. You’ll find information on special student and alumni groups as well as key moments in TU’s Latine/x history. You’ll also see stories about Latine/x students, faculty and staff who are achieving, inspiring and standing out every day. Read on to celebrate them and the community they proudly represent.
Nuestra Comunidad
TU’s Latine/x community is nearly 2,000 strong and growing. Students, faculty and staff represent distinct and vibrant cultures from the Caribbean to Central America, Mexico, South America and Spain. This page uses the term Latine/x to inclusively represent all members of the community while honoring the unique backgrounds they bring.
What We're Up To
Empowering Immigrants
TU is partnering with the Mayor’s Office to advance the well-being of immigrant communities across our region.
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Advancing Cancer Research
Eber Guzman-Cruz '24 earned a post-baccalaureate fellowship with the National Institutes of Health's Cancer Research Institute.
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Join the Celebration
Conéctate con Nosotros
Nuestra Historia
Latin American studies begins
1976: TU adds Latin American studies as a concentration in the general studies major. The program continues today and offers training for careers in business, finance, government, hospitality and more.
LASO launches
1996: The Latin American Student Organization is formed. The group — previously known as the Hispanic Culture Club — remains active and connects students of all backgrounds who have an interest in celebrating Latine/x culture.
Student Development Program introduced
2007: TU launches a development program for Latine/x students. It initially supported Latine/x and Asian students. In 2018 the university started a dedicated Latine/x student development program.
Support amidst DACA uncertainty
2016: Amidst uncertainty about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, TU’s President signs a letter of support for impacted students, and the USM issues guidance to keep students safe and supported.
First Gates-Cambridge winner
2023: Briseyda Barrientos Ariza ’22 becomes the first TU student to be named a Gates Cambridge Scholar. She is among just 23 U.S. students that year to receive the prestigious award.
The history of Latine/x people and programs at TU is still being uncovered.
These are some of the key milestones we know as of now. If you have additional information, records or stories related to significant moments in TU’s Latine/x history, please email community@towson.edu and scua@towson.edu. Together, we hope to build a more complete understanding of the community, its trailblazers and its evolution to today.
Send us an emailRecursos y Apoyo
Support for Undocumented Students
Information and support for completing college as a DACA, Dream Act or undocumented student.
Read more about DACA and resources for studentsNuestra Cultura
Who We Are
Prestigious scholars
TU’s first Gates Cambridge Scholar is using intergenerational stories to reframe colonial narratives about the Central American diaspora.
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Emmy award-winning activists
Raphaela Morais ’22 is an Emmy-Award winning documentarian shedding light on the paths of asylum seekers in Europe.
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Community leaders
Alejandra Balcázar earned mayoral recognition for her work to advance education in the Latine/x community.
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expand your understanding: Terms & Traditions
Origins of the Latine/x Term
Latine/x is a gender-inclusive term for individuals with heritage in Latin America and the Caribbean. It’s best used in referring to geographic origins, including those that speak Spanish, Portugese or native languages. The term Hispanic is used to reflect Spanish-speaking populations with roots in Spain. When in doubt, use the term preferred by the individual. When referring to larger groups, consider avoiding broad terms altogether.
Hispanic Heritage Month
From its civil rights origins to ties to Latin American independence, learn about the symbolism and celebrations that occur during Hispanic Heritage Month. The month is celebrated annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.
Dia de Los Muertos
Think healing, not Halloween. Learn how the Dia de Los Muertos holiday is about honoring those who’ve passed.
Explore Programs and Coursework
Nosotros te vemos
TU celebrates and recognizes the cultural identities and lived experiences of its community members.
Share Your StoryBecome a founding member of TU’s Latine/x Alumni Alliance
Show your support for a dedicated alumni group offering networking and fellowship opportunities for TU alumni of Latine/x heritage.