College of Education and Behavioral Sciences News

Julio Torales Guadalupe knew one day he would come to Western Kentucky University, and now that he is here, he “loves being on campus with students from so many backgrounds,” a place where he can lead an organization like the Hilltopper Organization of Latin American Students (WKU HOLAS).

“Even when I was little, I would tell my mom, I will be here in the future. And, she would say, ‘If God allows it,” said Torales Guadalupe, a sophomore Business Finance major from Franklin, KY and president of HOLAS.

HOLAS provides a space for Latinx students and their allies. The student organization has several driving goals: supporting education, encouraging professional growth, providing their community with cultural experiences, and giving back to local communities.

“I joined the first semester of my freshman year, mainly because I enjoyed it, and I was surrounded by people who have somewhat close to the same background as me. We all can relate to things.”

Torales Guadalupe joined Beta Gamma Phi Fraternity and WKU Students for Life, but president of HOLAS became Torales Guadalupe’s first leadership role at WKU. He leads the organization while maintaining a full schedule.

Torales Guadalupe commutes to campus in the morning and manages his time in order to attend class, workout, study, participate in organizations, and then attend his job during the evenings in Bowling Green before traveling home.

“I’m open to new challenges. This is new to me, and I am excited for it. I can challenge myself and be a better version of myself after this semester,” Torales Guadalupe said.

HOLAS plays a large role in the coordination of Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated nationally September 15 - October 15.  

“It is representation for us. We are proud in general. It is a time where we can show off our pride,” Torales Guadalupe said. “We are rich in culture. It is a month to celebrate who we are, and people are open to it because it is Hispanic Heritage Month.”

Intercultural Student Engagement Center, in collaboration with HOLAS and all five academic colleges, have planned a calendar of events for Hispanic Heritage Month. Most of the activities take place virtually and provide a way for viewers to learn more about Latinx students at WKU, Hispanic cooking and dance. The month also provides an opportunity to engage in conversation about language, immigration, race, and cultural experiences.

View the activities online at https://www.wku.edu/isec/hispanicheritage/.

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