Intercultural Education
Whether you are interested in campus-wide events, being involved in student organizations, or building interpersonal relationships, there are a myriad of opportunities for Jaguars to Get Involved!
About
At Governors State University there’s a good chance you’ll meet classmates who look a lot like you–or completely different. The diversity of our learning community makes us stand out – Everyone is welcome in here. Through inclusive programming, collaborative engagement, and holistic support, we are here to promote belonging and meaningful connections to the University and its many resources. The Center for Student Engagement and Leadership features a variety of programs and events highlighting the culture, traditions and contributions to honor the diversity of GovState students. Our staff works closely with students, faculty, staff, and community members to create a more engaged campus community.
Events
Hispanic Heritage Month 2026
Unidos, Somos Más: Together, We Are More!
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated September 15–October 15, honors the rich histories, cultures, contributions, and lasting impact of Hispanic and Latino/a/e/x communities. Explore GovState’s full calendar of events and discover opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate throughout the month. All Jaguars are welcome.
Event Schedule*
*Schedule subject to change
All Month
Unidos, Somos Más: Together, We Are More Display
Location: B Wing Display Case
Event Overview: National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 – October 15. Visit the UNIDOS, SOMOS MAS display to learn about the rich history, cultural diversity, and deep impact of Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States.
Tuesday, September 15
Civic Engagement Starts Here! National Voter Registration Day
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge
Event Overview: In recognition of National Voter Registration Day, students can check their voter registration status, learn about nonpartisan voter resources, and discover ways to get involved in civic engagement, volunteerism, and community service with (CECOP) Civic Engagement Community of Practice and the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council.
¡Viva la Cultura! — Celebrating Hispanic Heritage
Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge
Event Overview: Kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with ¡Viva la Cultura! an afternoon celebrating the vibrant cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Students are invited to enjoy music, cultural food and activities, interactive experiences, and opportunities to connect with campus resources.
Wednesday, September 16
Kaleidoscope Community Service Council Meeting: ¡Únete y Sirve!, Join & Serve!
Time: 1 - 2 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Meet the members of the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council and discover how you can get involved! All students are welcome to connect with fellow Jaguars, learn about upcoming programs and volunteer opportunities, explore ways to grow as a campus and community leader, and share ideas for making a positive impact.
Thursday, September 17
Día de la Constitución: Constitution Day Panel Discussion
Time: 10 – 11:15 a.m.
Location: Sherman Hall
Event Overview: Join Emmanuel Lopez, Director of the Latinx Resource Center, and invited panelists for a timely Constitution Day conversation exploring citizenship, democracy, civic participation, immigration, and issues affecting Hispanic and Latino communities. The discussion will encourage students to think critically about the Constitution's role in American life and how laws, public policy, and civic participation affect individuals and communities. Students will have an opportunity to hear multiple perspectives, ask questions, and consider how they can become more informed and engaged participants in our democracy.
Sickle Cell Awareness Blood Drive
Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: Turn awareness into action during Hispanic Heritage Month. Members of the GovState community are encouraged to donate blood in recognition of Sickle Cell Awareness month. Donate blood and help save a life! In partnership with Versiti Blood Center.
Saturday, September 19
Spike & Celebrate: Women’s Volleyball
Time: 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Bring your Jaguar pride! Cheer on Women’s Volleyball during Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrate culture, community, and GovState spirit.
- 12 p.m. – vs. Kansas Wesleyan
- 4 p.m. – vs. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods
Tuesday, September 22
Latinx Resource Center Mural Viewing & Discussion
Time: 12 – 1 p.m.
Location: C2340
Event Overview: Experience the story behind the Latinx Resource Center mural during this special viewing and facilitated discussion. Participants will explore the mural's imagery, symbolism, cultural influences, and messages while discussing how public art can communicate history, identity, resistance, pride, and belonging. The conversation will provide an opportunity for students to reflect on what Hispanic and Latino representation means on a college campus and how art can help create spaces where students feel seen and connected.
Thursday, September 24
Latin Music Bingo
Time: 1 - 3 p.m.
Location: D1469
Event Overview: It's BINGO with a beat! Test your music knowledge while exploring the incredible diversity of Latin music. Instead of traditional numbers, participants will listen for songs, artists, genres, and musical clues representing styles such as salsa, bachata, merengue, reggaeton, cumbia, Latin pop, and more. Come for the music, stay for the friendly competition, and enjoy prizes, culture, and connections with fellow Jaguars.
Tuesday, September 29
Tamales con Propósito: Tamales with Purpose — ALAS Fundraiser
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: ARC Cove, B1223
Event Overview: Come hungry, connect with culture, and make a difference! This annual fundraiser brings together food, culture, and philanthropy in support of the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS). Enjoy a delicious cultural favorite while supporting a great cause!
Thursday, October 1
Hispanic Heritage Month Symposium
Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: A vibrant celebration of culture, learning, community, and connection! This interactive symposium brings together students, employees, educators, and community members for a day designed to celebrate Hispanic and Latino cultures while learning from and with one another. The day will feature a dynamic keynote address, interactive breakout sessions, cultural experiences, music, food, conversation, and plenty of opportunities to connect. Come for a session or stay for the entire day. Our goal is simple: learn something, experience something, and connect with someone.
Free and open to the GovState and surrounding community.
Saturday, October 3
¡Celebremos con Fútbol! Women’s Soccer vs. Indiana Northwest
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: GovState Soccer Field
Event Overview: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month while supporting Jaguar Athletics! Wear your GovState gear, bring your friends, and cheer on the Women's Soccer team as they take on the RedHawks! This game celebrates the global connection created through soccer, a sport that holds an important place in communities throughout Latin America and around the world.
Wednesday, October 7
¡Viva el Arte! Paint & Sip
Time: 3 – 5 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Unleash your creativity during Viva el Arte! Participants will create a guided canvas inspired by Hispanic/Latino art, culture, or imagery while enjoying nonalcoholic beverages, music, and conversation. No painting experience is necessary, just bring your creativity! Learn about artistic traditions and the important contributions Hispanic and Latino artists have made to the visual arts.
Thursday, October 8
Más Unidos, Más Servicio: Together in Service
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: GovState Food Pantry, B1242
Event Overview: Put the spirit of Más Unidos into action! Join fellow Jaguars in serving the GovState community by unloading the Food Pantry delivery, organizing donations, stocking shelves, and preparing the pantry for students. Come ready to lend a hand—every box and every shelf helps strengthen food security for our campus community!
Monday, October 12
ALAS Reunión Abierta — Open Meeting
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Meet the members of the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) to learn how you can Get Involved! All students are welcome to connect, learn about upcoming programs and volunteer opportunities, explore leadership opportunities, and share ideas.
Wednesday, October 14
Latino Policy Forum Workshop
Time: 2 – 4 p.m.
Location: D34012 & Hybrid
Event Overview: Explore Latino community issues, advocacy, leadership, and civic engagement with the Latino Policy Forum. Then celebrate the connections and experiences of Más Unidos: Celebrating Culture, Community & Connections, to recognize our partnerships, and keep the spirit of community going beyond Hispanic Heritage Month!
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/282515250509313?p=palCUVClXOEr0SZG0g
Meeting ID: 282 515 250 509 313
Passcode: WR9Uf69d
LGBTQ+ History Month 2026
During the month of October, Governors State University recognizes the achievements and progress made within the LGBTQ+ community. GovState students are invited to attend the vast array of campus celebrations that pay homage to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender history.
Event Schedule*
*Schedule subject to change
All Month
Celebrate LGBTQ+ in the Arts
Location: B Wing Display Case
Event Overview: Learn about LGBTQ+ Art History and Creative Contributions.
Thursday, October 1
Show Your Pride and Share Your Love: LGBTQ+ History Month Kickoff
Time: 4 – 5 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge
Event Overview: Kick off LGBTQ+ History Month with Civic Engagement & Interculture Education! Join us for an engaging presentation celebrating LGBTQ+ history and community, along with music, cupcakes, and a Pride-themed photo booth. Bring your friends, meet someone new, strike a pose, show your pride and share your love! All GovState students are welcome.
Thursday, October 8
Pack the Pantry with Pride
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: B1242
Event Overview: Join the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership for a welcoming day of service as we receive our monthly Food Pantry shipment, stock the shelves, and serve with pride!
Monday, October 12
Love is Love – National Coming Out Day Celebration
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
Event Overview: Join the Student Activities Council and Kaleidoscope Community Service Council for an afternoon of celebration and community as we honor the journey of living authentically. Everyone is welcome to enjoy music, games, arts & crafts, light refreshments, and uplifting vibes in a space that embraces authenticity.
Thursday, October 15
Cut with Pride: T-Shirt Redesigns
Time: 4 – 6 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Wear your pride. Create your style. Express yourself.
Bring your own T-shirt or choose from one of our provided past-event tees and transform it into a fresh new look. Learn fun cutting, styling, and upcycling techniques while connecting with others and celebrating the freedom to express who you are and what makes you unique. All identities, styles, and skill levels are welcome! Supplies, snacks, and goodies are provided. Space is limited!
Register on Jaguar Connection by October 3, 2026.
Tuesday, October 20
LGBQTea and Coffee Social: What’s the Temperature?
Time: TBD
Location: TBD
Event Overview: Grab some tea or coffee and join the conversation! What’s the current climate for LGBTQ+ students on campus, in the community, and in society? Explore topics around identity, belonging, allyship, representation, and current LGBTQ+ issues while sharing perspectives and connecting with others.
Sip. Share. Listen. Connect.
Thursday, October 22
DRAG THE MIC: Open Mic and Drag Show
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: Speak your truth. Share your talent. Celebrate PRIDE! Join us for an evening of creativity, self-expression, and community. Take the mic to share poetry, spoken word, music, comedy, storytelling, or another talent or simply come out and support your fellow Jaguars. Then, get ready for a lively Drag Show celebrating artistry, individuality, and LGBTQ+ culture. Enjoy an evening of pride, performance, and connection. Open to all GovState students.
Sunday, October 25
Run With Pride: GovState Jaguar 5K
Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Governors State University
Event Overview: Join GovState's Annual Jaguar 5K! Wear your pride colors, lace up, and get ready for an unforgettable, chip-timed adventure through the scenic campus of Governors State University! Whether you’re running or walking, this is your chance to be part of something special. And this year, we’re turning up the excitement with features for every age and fitness level!
Friday, October 30
Fright Night Film Festival: Premier of Horror Feature Film "Kaishaku" and Costume Competition
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: The Center for Performing Arts
Event Overview: $10 Student Tickets with ID at the box office.
Chicago Southland International Film Festival has partnered with the Center for Performing Arts and is excited to host the Southland premiere of "Kaishaku", a horror feature film. The event kicks off with a costume competition followed by two short films. Each film will have filmmakers present for post-film Q&A with the audience.