Initiative 9 - New President's Initiatives

In Fall 2023, two new initiatives, the Hostos Student Symposium and Caiman Direct Virtual Student Support, were awarded funding through the Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift Request for Proposals.

HOSTOS STUDENT SYMPOSIUM

Under the leadership of Associate Dean Andrea Fabrizio and the Office of Academic Affairs, the second annual Hostos Student Symposium was held on April 18, 2024, and showcased the incredible work of over 120 students in attendance across multiple disciplines who were mentored by over 50 faculty members. Learn more about the day’s wonderful events here.

Hostos Student Symposium Photo Presentation

CAIMAN DIRECT

The Caiman Direct Virtual Student Support initiative, under the leadership of Dr. Marsha Milan Bethel, Senior Admissions Advisor, employs two Student Advocate Interns to provide support to students enrolled in online classes. Student Advocate Interns help students to navigate and access the services they need to support their enrollment and retention at Hostos through the Caiman Direct virtual platform.

(R to L) Marsha Milan Bethel with Student Advocate Interns Jahneilia Curtin and Orlando Soto, Jr.

PRESIDENT’S STUDENT RECOGNITION EVENTS

For the second year in a row, the President’s Student Recognition events invited faculty and staff to submit nominations of students who demonstrated incredible perseverance and resilience while excelling in their studies. In 2024, over 50 nominations were received, and the review committee selected 31 students to receive this special distinction and a $500 stipend at one of two special events.

The President’s Recognition Tea in Honor of Women’s History Month was held on March 26, 2024, and honored 15 students. The President’s Recognition Barbeque Honoring Student Persistence and Resiliency was held on April 15, 2024, and honored 16 students. Both events were memorable as nominators shared why they nominated the student and how they were inspired by the student’s commitment to their education even while overcoming significant obstacles in their lives. Equally moving were the students’ own words as they shared their gratitude for being nominated and highlighted the support and encouragement they received from the nominating faculty/staff members.