ECC 2026 Latinx Heritage Month Celebrations

Elgin Community College (ECC) invites students, families, and the community to join its 2026 Latinx Heritage Month celebration, honoring the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Latinx community. 

This year’s theme is “Growing Beyond Our Roots” or “Creciendo Más Allá de Nuestras Raíces.”

“Latinx Heritage Month is a great opportunity for ECC and our community to come together and celebrate the cultures, traditions, and contributions that make our campus so vibrant,” said Amybeth Maurer, assistant dean of the student experience and engagement at ECC. “This year’s theme, Growing Beyond Our Roots, reminds us that our heritage is an important part of who we are. Our roots connect us to our history while also giving us the foundation to grow, learn from one another, and build a more inclusive community together.”

About the Celebration
Latinx Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) at ECC showcases events and experiences that uplift Latinx culture while fostering community, connection, and learning. As a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, ECC is proud to honor the stories and traditions that shape its students and community.

Featured Events:

Jane Barbosa Legacy Brunch 

When: Friday, September 18, 2026 | 9:30–11:30 am
Location: Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, Building B, Jobe Lounge 

Join us for the annual Latinx Heritage Month kickoff brunch, featuring keynote speaker Sandy Lopez, Ph.D., the retired Director of the Undocumented Student Resource Center at Northern Illinois University and a longtime educator, administrator, and student advocate. Doors open at 9 am.

Tickets for the event are available here. 

¡Bienvenida Fest!

When: Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 3:30–6 pm
Location: Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, Building A, Outside

Connect with campus and community resources designed to support your academic and personal success while enjoying live music, delicious food, relay games with We Rise Club, dance performances with Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS), and much more.

Caminos al Éxito: Latinx Transfer Fair

When: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 | 11 am – 1 pm
Location: Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, Building B, Jobe Lounge

Meet admission representatives from Northern Illinois University (NIU), DePaul University, Elmhurst University, Aurora University, National Louis University, Northeastern Illinois University, and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) to learn about transfer opportunities, scholarships, admissions requirements, and student support services.

Día de los Muertos Community Ofrenda

When: Monday, October 26 to Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Location: Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, Building B, Bookstore Hallway 

Honor and remember loved ones by visiting the OLAS Ofrenda, a meaningful Día de los Muertos tradition. The community is invited to reflect, celebrate cherished memories, and honor the lasting legacy of those we have lost. To contribute a photo, memento, or remembrance, contact the OLAS Student Organization.

In the Spring 2027 semester, ECC will celebrate Latinx culture and local business with two events in February and April.

Spring 2027 Events

Latinx Conexiones

When: Thursday, February 17, 2027 | 11 am to 1 pm

Location: Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, Building B, Jobe Lounge

Build meaningful connections and celebrate Latinx culture at Latinx Conexiones! Connect with campus support services, hear inspiring stories from ECC alumni, meet new friends, and discover resources to help you thrive throughout your college journey.

El Mercadito: A Celebration of Small Businesses and Big

When: Wednesday, April 21, 2027  | 11 am to 3 pm

Location: Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, Building B, Jobe Lounge

Celebrate the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of our community at El Mercadito! Meet student and local Latinx entrepreneurs, shop unique products, enjoy live demonstrations, and hear inspiring stories from small business owners.

All LHM events are sponsored by the Latinx Heritage Month Committee and Student Life.

For more information and a full list of events, visit elgin.edu/latinx.