Shippensburg University’s Latino Student Organization (LSO) held their annual cookout on Sept. 13 at the McCune Pavilion. Members of the club and the student body joined together for a night of fun, food and dancing.
The event is not only a welcome back for the Shippensburg community, but also a kickoff for Hispanic Heritage Month, which begins on Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15.
“We’re here to welcome all students, students of a Latino background, [students] of color, all students really,” says LSO member Cynthia C. Aguilar. “This event is to expand and share our culture.” The cookout showcased a blend of backgrounds, including Mexican, Dominican, Puerto Rican and Venezuelan.
With music pumping and energies high, students gathered in line for a flavorful dinner. LSO cooked up various dishes, including quesadillas, empanadas, rice, chicken wings, hotdogs and burgers. Members of LSO joyfully served out the meals to students, who came for seconds and thirds. “A little bit of everything for everyone,” Aguilar shared.
In addition to serving delicious food, LSO also served on the dance floor. Members invited guests to learn traditional Latino dances, from the bachata to merengue to cumbia. Dancers and non-dancers alike participated in the limbo and shared a joyful evening, dancing the night away. Nadia, a guest at the event, said, “The cookout has a familial feel, like you’re at home.”
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Latino Student Organization will be holding more events. LSO President Brando Aristy shared their next big event, the LSO Explosion, which will be held Sept. 28 in the CUB, featuring performers, prizes and vendors for the community.
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