In a time when cultural organizations are increasingly aware of national tensions and campus policy shifts, the Latino Caucus is continuing its mission to build community, embrace advocacy and ensure that Latino students feel safe, seen and supported on campus.
The organization is entering the semester with a more intentional advocacy-based focus instead of a social one, according to Marcus Roman, the caucus’co-executive internal vice president.
Roman, a third-year studying finance, said while in the past social gatherings and cultural celebrations were emphasized, this year’s board is steering toward civic engagement, political awareness and coalition building.
“Whether it’s through protests, attending leadership conventions or participating in Homecoming in a meaningful way, we’re being more vocal,” he said.
Roman said national policy changes, including restrictions on what student organizations can say or do, have made it more important for the caucus to remain informed and outspoken.
Judith Rojas, president of the caucus, said the mission to build community is personal and has a broader responsibility in today’s political climate.
“My main goal is to build community, not just for Latino students, but for everyone who’s navigating identity at Penn State,” Rojas, a third-year studying international politics and public policy, said. “With everything happening locally and nationally, it’s important that we’re paying attention.”
Events such as Noche Latina and Café Con Leche remain central to that vision, according to Rojas. These events offer students a space to celebrate culture, discuss real-world topics and connect with new and familiar faces.
A poster for Latino Caucus sits on a table at Back to State Fun Friday in Alumni Hall on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 in the HUB-Robeson Center in University Park, Pa.
“Our job as leaders is to make sure students feel safe, have access to resources and have a community to turn to during these turbulent times,” Rojas said.
Maria Fernanda Lopez Vera Livia said she’s focused on ensuring Latinos are represented in all university decisions.
From securing funding to working closely with other student organizations and Penn State administration, Lopez, the co-executive external vice president and a third-year studying political science and economics, is determined to ensure Latino students are not overlooked.
“There have been new regulations about what student orgs can say and do,” Lopez said. “We’ve had to stay informed, work with the Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC) and make sure our events aren’t shut down or restricted. That’s how we keep building community — by staying active.”
Lopez said she’s excited for the annual Thanksgiving-style event hosted by the PRCC and cultural caucuses where students of color can gather to reflect on what community means.
Megan Soto-Benitez, the caucus’s vice president of public relations, said she’s working towards increasing visibility of Latino students.
“My role is all about providing resources through social media, sharing events and amplifying the work of others,” Soto-Benitez, a third-year studying international politics and public relations, said.
Soto-Benitez said communication is key to helping students feel supported.
“We try to make sure that if a student needs help, they know where to go, and that starts with accessible messaging,” Soto-Benitez said.
Despite concerns over censorship, administrative changes and national policy shifts affecting cultural student organizations, the Latino Caucus remains grounded in its mission, according to Roman.
“Regardless of what happens nationally, we’re doing everything we can to protect and uplift our students,” Roman said.
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