A person’s ethnicity does not define who they are, but ethnicity and the celebration of culture can have a significant impact on a person’s life.

Dejean Pean is in his senior year at Ship, just a few semesters away from earning his bachelor’s degree in Business Finance. In addition to being an orientation leader over the summer at Ship—Pean is also the President of the Latino Student Association (LSO). He treasures this position due to his love for such a rich culture.

“Hispanic Culture is very important to me, mainly because I am Hispanic myself,” Pean said, “My mother is Puerto Rican and at home we embrace our Hispanic side every day. Dancing, family stories, the language and especially the food. It makes me proud to be a part of such a culture.”

Pean decided to run for the position after the previous president graduated from Ship, knowing it would be an opportunity to take a leadership role in a club he was already involved with. He now celebrates that decision because it provided him something to be proud of.

LSO’s goal is to spread Hispanic culture on campus and provide a place for students to meet up and be themselves.

Pean is able to successfully carry out the duties that are required for him to be president of LSO—duties that include getting students involved with the organization, spreading knowledge about Hispanic culture and planning the group’s events.

The organization biggest event on campus, Latino Explosion, will be held on Oct. 18 at 3:00 p.m. in the multi-purpose room on the first floor of the CUB. At this event students will learn dances such as the salsa, bachata and merengue. Students will also be able to try homemade Spanish food prepared by club members.

Pean’s favorite part of being a member of LSO is the strong bond and family-type vibe him and the other students have become accustom to. “I love when all the members are together and just laughing and enjoying the time they’re having,” said Pean. Another favorite part is when they are so into helping plan an event and don’t feel pressured to be part of the organization.

The positive vibes and excitement of its members is how Pean measures the success of the club. LSO provides Latino students with the assurance that their culture is rich and that the campus is willing to honor and embrace their heritage.

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