Esperanza Latina participants enjoy a day of activities by Winona Lake at the group’s launch event on Saturday, Sept. 7. Ben Navarro is wearing the red cap.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College hosted its first Esperanza Latina event, Saturday, Sept. 7.

The launch event gathered about 25 Latino students for an afternoon of eating South American food, playing yard games and riding the Grace boat with Grace College President Dr. Bill Katip, a news release said.

Esperanza Latina exists to create a forum that embraces Latino students, educates the Grace College student body on pertinent issues for Latinos and celebrates the rich Latino cultural heritage.

The name Esperanza Latina translates to Latino Hope. A small name that reflects the past, present and future hope of the Latino community.

Second-year student Madelene Martinez joined Esperanza Latina to celebrate her heritage and connect with others on campus.

“This club brings the wonders of diversity to the Grace community in a very special and fun way,” said Martinez.

Benjamin Navarro serves as a liaison between Grace College and Latino students, parents, pastors, alumni, community leaders and organizations. He guides Latino students through the college process, from first inquiry to college graduation. Navarro is from Argentina.

Navarro thought the first event was a success.

“It was a good time to connect and get to know each other,” Navarro said.

Michelle Murillo, Grace College admissions counselor, helps co-lead Esperanza Latina.

The event is just the beginning of Navarro and Murillo’s objectives for the group.

“We want to create a safe space for both Latino and non-Latino students to learn about each other, celebrate our identity and discuss educational, social, political, intellectual and cultural topics,” said Navarro.

The group plans to partner with the surrounding community and other global initiatives on campus including the World Language programs, the Council for Diversity and Inclusion and the Institute of Global Studies.

For more information about Esperanza Latina and Latino opportunities at Grace College, contact Ben Navarro at [email protected].