|
In 1980, Jose Maldonado, one of the
co-founders of the Gamma Chapter of Lambda Theta Phi, Latin
Fraternity, Inc., had a distinct interest in enhancing the recruitment
of Latino students to Trenton State College as well as emphasizing the
significance of higher education to both themselves and the Latino
community. This is why Hispanic College Day was created. However,
since 1980 times here at TCNJ have changed, so the current brothers
have noticed that a college education goes beyond one's heritage
and diversity is important for community development. furthermore, the
last couple of years we have opened this event to all high
schools regardless of heritage who would like to participate, always
encouraging Latino students to participate.
Hispanic College Day, which has become an
annual event, is designed to introduce the college environment, and
more importantly, the effective and proper steps in the admissions
process to college, particularly our institution, to Latino students
statewide. Approximately 150 students, predominantly Seniors
and Juniors with college aspirations, representing 5 to 10 high
schools and youth programs, the majority of whom are situated in
urban districts, are invited to attend our program each year. The
students are introduced to all the various components of our college
that will address their specific academic, personal, and social
needs.
They are exposed to the numerous
vehicles of leadership and peer support on our campus as well as the
emphasis on the multiculturalism of our campus community. The
students are also familiarized with the wide-ranging, diverse
academic disciplines our fine institution offers that will create
the path to their optimum goals.
The senior workshops are designed to provide the necessary and
systematic steps to both applying for financial aid and in the
application process as well as orienting the students with the
various financial aid packages and admission programs. The junior
workshops are focused on the careful selection of the college that
best suits the needs of each individual student.
Serving our Latino community is one of the
focal points of our fraternity. We strongly believe that this
program is exemplary of our ideals. The College of New Jersey has
been an ongoing contributor and supporter of this program and
in all our endeavors.
|