Students learned how to salsa, meringue and bachata during Latin dancing instruction Sept. 19 in the Henry Student Center.

Carmen Vasquez taught the Latin dances. The Coughlin High School Multicultural Dance Team also performed at the event sponsored by Office of Diversity Initiatives.

Erica Acosta, the associate director for Diversity Initiatives, was the head of the Latin dancing activity.

“The purpose of the event is to show a little diversity and different styles of dancing.” Acosta said. “It is part of Hispanic Heritage month, which is from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. Hispanic Heritage month is celebrated around this time period because this is when Latin American countries received their independence.”

Jaleel Sterling, president of the Multicultural Student Coalition, participated in the Latin dancing activity.

“I’m here to learn how to Latin dance,” he said.

Hispanic Heritage month’s events started with nationally known speaker Jose Galvez. He came to Wilkes University to present presentations on his images and stories. He had a one-day photo exhibit and a lecture on his exhibit “Shine” Sept. 10.

Hispanic Heritage month events continue with Carnaval at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2, in the SUB Ballroom. There will be a live band, snacks and refreshments provided. Carnaval is a co-sponsored event with the Spanish Club, Multicultural Student Coalition and Student Government.

“Backpack to Healing Toiletry Drive” is another event for Hispanic Heritage month. The drive is held all October long to help collect and donate toiletries for the Domestic Violence Center.

For more information contact Acosta at [email protected] or stop Center of Global Education and Diversity at Max Roth Hall on South Franklin Street.