Hostos Community College

Hostos Community College An educational change agent in the South Bronx. The Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture (HCAC) is one of the pre-eminent Latino arts centers of the northeast.

Hostos Community College is an educational agent for change, transforming and improving the quality of life in the South Bronx and neighboring communities since 1968. Hostos serves as a gateway to intellectual growth and socioeconomic mobility, and a point of departure for lifelong learning, success in professional careers, and transfer to advanced higher education programs. The College’s unique "

student success coach" program, which partners students with individualized guidance, is emblematic of the premier emphasis on student support and services. Hostos offers 29 associate degree programs and 5 certificate programs that facilitate easy transfer to The City University of New York (CUNY) four-year colleges or baccalaureate studies at other institutions. The College has an award-winning Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Development that offers professional development courses and certificate-bearing workforce training programs. The HCAC has distinguished itself for showcasing traditional art forms as well as emerging and internationally renowned artists. Hostos Community College is part of CUNY, the nation’s leading urban public university serving more than 480,000 students at 24 colleges.

Hostos kicked off the Fall 2026 semester on September 2 with a welcome BBQ. The festivities brought together students, f...
09/03/2026

Hostos kicked off the Fall 2026 semester on September 2 with a welcome BBQ. The festivities brought together students, faculty, and staff for delicious food, music, and community-building — fostering connections and reconnections.

During her welcoming remarks, President Daisy Cocco De Filippis expressed her elation at seeing everyone, including honored guests Senator Jose M. Serrano and State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, and wished the College community a wonderful semester.

Dr. Althea Sterling, VP of Student Development & Enrollment Management, further set the celebratory stage by highlighting a major achievement: Hostos was recently ranked No. 4 among two-year colleges nationwide — and the highest ranked in the state — in Washington Monthly’s 2026 list of America’s Best Hispanic-Serving Colleges. During his remarks, Senator Serrano shared he was not surprised to hear the news, noting Hostos’ unwavering commitment to the South Bronx, calling the College a true “beacon of opportunity for our community.”

“It is far more than a school — it is a beacon, it is a gathering place,” he said. “It is a place where we feel like family, and after we graduate from Hostos, we never leave.”

Comptroller DiNapoli also emphasized that the College is a vibrant, supportive community, and that community “is going to be key to your economic success,” he said. “There’s no better investment for you in terms of your future than pursuing higher education, and you could not have picked a better campus than Hostos Community College.”

Echoing Comptroller DiNapoli, Professor Ernest Ialongo, Behavioral & Social Sciences Dept. Chair and College-Wide Senate Chair, affirmed students’ decision to attend Hostos, saying “this might be the best academic decision you’ve ever made,” and he reminded them that there are many resources and programs available to help them get to the finish line.

Representatives from various programs tabled at the event and connected with students to let them know about the services they offer.

Here’s to a wonderful semester full of academic and personal growth, continued success, and community! Let’s go!

On September 1, Hostos welcomed a new generation of student leaders at the 2026 Hostos Student Government Association (S...
09/02/2026

On September 1, Hostos welcomed a new generation of student leaders at the 2026 Hostos Student Government Association (SGA) Inauguration Ceremony, beginning a year of advocacy and service. Elected by the student body in Spring 2026, the newly chosen SGA officers and senators gathered with college leaders, guests, volunteers, and members of the campus community to take their oaths of office and accept the responsibilities entrusted to them.

The ceremony included individual oaths for members of the Executive Group, the Student Senate, the Chair of the Senate, and the new SGA President Brian Flores Gerardo. Each oath affirmed a commitment to represent student voices and strengthen the campus community.

As presiding officers of Executive and Senate meetings, Flores Gerardo and Mohammed Jawara, Vice President/Chair of the Senate, received ceremonial gavels and sound blocks. Newly installed SGA members also received the Hostos SGA Constitution, a list of College-Wide Senate committees, and a pin modeled after the College’s Crest of Arms.

Flores Gerardo also addressed the gathering, sharing his vision and plans for the year ahead and highlighting the role of student government in advancing student interests.

The ceremony was supported by the Student Leadership Academy (SLA), led by Student Leadership Coordinator Jason Libfeld, whose volunteers helped bring the event to life, while SGA members invited fellow students to participate in this moment of celebration. Dr. Althea Sterling, Vice President of Student Development and Enrollment Management; Dr. Sofía Oviedo, Director of Research Programs; and other members of the community joined the proceedings, as the new student leaders formally began their terms.

Serving as Master of Ceremonies, Jerry Rosa, Director of Student Activities, guided the proceedings and helped mark this moment in Hostos student life.

To our 2026 SGA leaders: congratulations on your election and inauguration. May this year be defined by courage, collaboration, advocacy, and a deep commitment to the students you represent.

Hostos Lecturer Dr. Linda Ridley’s new book, “Management Education and Slavery: Reimagining Business Pedagogy's Approach...
08/31/2026

Hostos Lecturer Dr. Linda Ridley’s new book, “Management Education and Slavery: Reimagining Business Pedagogy's Approach to History and Race Using a Symptomatic Thought Process,” launched today!

Dr. Ridley’s book examines how the legacy of slavery shapes modern management practices and business education. She argues that many foundational management concepts originated and were refined during slavery, and urges educators to recognize and address this overlooked history.

“I'm breaking new ground in suggesting that you don't start with industrialization when you talk about the concepts that we teach in business and management, because they were used and perfected during chattel slavery,” Ridley explained. “Those are the things I get into in the book, such things as terms that students learn, such as ‘efficiency’ and ‘effectiveness’. If you look at the sugarcane plantations in the Caribbean, as well as coming forward to the cotton plantations in America, you see the implementation of management behaviors that were used then, but we never talk about it, and we don't make the connection. One of the things I'm very clear about is not only don't we talk about it, we miss it now when we look at current-day management.”

For the book, Ridley conducted interviews with faculty nationwide, examining how historical practices of cruelty and coercion continue to shape modern management strategies. Central to her book is the Symptomatic Thought Process®, a framework developed by Edgar J. Ridley. This approach challenges the use of symbolic labels and euphemisms and instead describes realities as they are. Dr. Linda Ridley uses the framework to present approaches to addressing symbolic behaviors that perpetuate racism and inequality in the workplace.

Dr. Ridley hopes the book will encourage business educators to critically examine their teaching methods, be transparent, and strive for inclusivity.

Hello from Hostos and welcome to the Fall ’26 Semester! As you settle in, get acquainted with our new Student Government...
08/28/2026

Hello from Hostos and welcome to the Fall ’26 Semester! As you settle in, get acquainted with our new Student Government Association (SGA) President Brian Flores Gerardo. 

Born to Mexican parents in the Bronx, Brian grew up only blocks away from Hostos and enrolled right after high school with a plan: study hard, graduate in 2 years, and move on. “Things didn't end up happening that way, but I think it was for the better,” he reflected. As life took unexpected turns, the Liberal Arts & Science major discovered his calling in leadership. “The experience has been a lengthy one… but I've enjoyed it,” he shared. "My campus life is very fulfilling.” 

Brian, who has a vision impairment, found community through the Accessibility Resource Center (ARC), which led him to Hostos’ chapter of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities (CCSD). He served as president for 2 years and later Vice Chair of Finance for the CUNY-wide CCSD. Brian then got involved in the SGA, moving from Senator to Campus Affairs Commissioner, then VP of Academic Affairs, Student Senate Chair, and VP of Student Affairs and Community Relations. He’s also in the Student Leadership Academy. 

For Brian, who once felt invisible in high school, student leadership at Hostos was a powerful turning point. “I came here and somebody saw the potential in me. People notice you,” he said. Furthermore, he values the skills and relationships that it fosters, saying, “Being part of SGA, you have to have a lot of social awareness, emotional intelligence, and understand that people come from different backgrounds. We all have to support each other, which is a beautiful thing.”

This fall, Brian looks forward to connecting with his peers, sharing information on resources like SGA-sponsored scholarships, and relaunching “Feed Us Fridays,” an initiative providing free meals to students.​ He encourages others to get involved in student activities, attend SGA events, and participate in course-related study groups. 

Brian plans to graduate in Spring ’27 and pursue environmental studies, aiming for a Ph.D. He’s committed to building stronger, more inclusive communities.

Five years of achievement, family, and possibility.On July 30, Hostos proudly celebrated the fifth anniversary of the Ho...
08/24/2026

Five years of achievement, family, and possibility.
On July 30, Hostos proudly celebrated the fifth anniversary of the Holistic Oasis for Parents’ Education (HOPE), an on-campus, two-generation summer program supporting parenting students and their children.
Led by Program Director and Principal Investigator Dr. Sarah Hoiland, HOPE brings together faculty, staff, teachers, aides, and campus partners to help families succeed. Mistress of Ceremonies Leyla Caballero—a HOPE alumna who now serves on the program’s staff—guided the celebration, showing how participants can return to lead and support others. The event also recognized co-PI and HOPE STEAM Academy Director Dr. AJ Stachelek and the broader team.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Andrea Fabrizio captured the program’s intergenerational impact: “You parents are an inspiration to your children. They’re watching you go to school. They’re here on a college campus. They’re seeing all that you do and learning from that. And you’re an incredible role model to them.”
While parents completed summer courses, earned credits, and continued toward four-year degrees, their children learned through the HOPE STEAM Academy and the Hostos Children’s Center.
The children created artwork using watercolor, acrylic, clay, collage, ink, and collaborative drawing. They explored engineering and animation, participated in physical activities, and visited galleries and cultural spaces. They presented their work and received certificates.
Parenting students were honored for earning associate and bachelor’s degrees, transferring, and continuing their education. Aisha Ivy received special recognition for completing her associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
Since 2022, HOPE has served 53 parenting students and 74children. Supported by a $2.3 million, five-year grant from the National Science Foundation, the program shows how investing in two generations can strengthen families, expand opportunity, and build social mobility.
Congratulations to Dr. Hoiland and the entire HOPE community.

For the second time, the Hostos Community College Black Male Initiative – Together wE Achieve More (BMI TEAM) Program ha...
08/24/2026

For the second time, the Hostos Community College Black Male Initiative – Together wE Achieve More (BMI TEAM) Program has been recognized among the outstanding BMI programs across CUNY, receiving the 2025–2026 Outstanding Academic Enhancement Trophy. The award, which honors the program’s commitment to academic enhancement and student success, was presented on August 6 during the CUNY BMI Directors Retreat at the CUNY Graduate Center.

This marks the second time the Hostos BMI TEAM Program has received the Outstanding Academic Enhancement Trophy, following its first recognition during the 2022–2023 academic year.

CUNY’s Black Male Initiative was established in 2005 to develop programs and strategies that address disparities in higher education and promote the academic achievement, retention, and success of Black male students.

At Hostos, the BMI TEAM Program supports students through academic, mentoring and personal development opportunities designed to strengthen their connection to the College, promote academic achievement, and help them pursue their educational and professional goals.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our BMI team and to the collective commitment of the Hostos community to ensuring that our students have the support and opportunities they need to thrive,” said President Daisy Cocco De Filippis. “We are proud to see the work of our colleagues and students recognized across CUNY, and we congratulate everyone who has contributed to the success of the program. Bravi!”

The Hostos BMI TEAM Program is led by Dr. Yoel Rodríguez, Professor and Chair of Natural Sciences, with support from Hostos leadership, faculty, staff, and campus partners. The program’s second Outstanding Academic Enhancement Trophy reflects its sustained commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Professors Antonios Varelas and Anna Ivanova received the award from CUNY BMI Deputy Executive Director Jorge F. Alguera.

🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴We proudly joined the Dominican community in celebrating the 44th Annual National Dominican Day Parade on Sunday, ...
08/10/2026

🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴We proudly joined the Dominican community in celebrating the 44th Annual National Dominican Day Parade on Sunday, August 9!🎉🎊

Students, faculty, staff, and college leadership came together to march along Sixth Avenue and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Dominican community in New York City and beyond.

From the Bronx, home to more than 330,000 residents of Dominican heritage, the Hostos community showed up with pride to celebrate the heritage that continues to shape our students, our College, and our borough.

Please join us in congratulating the newly elected Student Government Association (SGA) officials for Academic Year 2026...
07/27/2026

Please join us in congratulating the newly elected Student Government Association (SGA) officials for Academic Year 2026–2027. We look forward to the leadership, advocacy, and dedication they will bring as they represent and serve the Hostos student body throughout the year.

2026–2027 SGA Officials:

Brian Flores Gerardo – President (Slide 1)
Akoli Sessi – Vice President for Student Affairs
Mohammed Jawara – VP/Chair of the Senate
Maliha Binta Jolil – Budget and Finance Commissioner
Nardia Walcott – Executive Secretary
Jainaba Jagne – Campus Affairs Commissioner
Adjovi Atiopou – Evening & Part-Time Student Affairs Commissioner
Estelle Boukari – Senator
Lyanna Jordan – Senator
Clarisse Kabre – Senator
Mayaluisa Sanchez – Senator
Heather Steward – Senator/Senate Secretary
Lady Trejo – Senator
Lucy Zongo – Senator

We wish them all a successful year of service and leadership in support of our student community!



Akoli Sessi, Vice President for Student Affairs

Mohammed Jawara, VP/Chair of the Senate

Maliha Binta Jolil, Budget and Finance Commissioner

Nardia Walcott, Executive Secretary

Jainaba Jagne, Campus Affairs Commissioner

Adjovi Atiopou, Evening & P/T Student Affairs Commissioner

Estelle Boukari, Senator

Lyanna Jordan, Senator

Clarisse Kabre, Senator

Mayaluisa Sanchez, Senator

Heather Steward, Senator

Lady Trejo, Senator

Lucy Zongo, Senator

07/23/2026

Welcome to the Hostos Children’s Center! We’re here to help student parents succeed by providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn and thrive while you focus on your education. Pursue your degree with confidence, knowing your child is in caring hands. Learn more about our childcare services today!

Hostos celebrated three graduates of its NextGen Scholars Program during a special luncheon hosted by President Dr. Dais...
07/16/2026

Hostos celebrated three graduates of its NextGen Scholars Program during a special luncheon hosted by President Dr. Daisy Cocco De Filippis on July 15. The program creates transfer pathways from Hostos to four-year institutions, including Columbia University and Queens College, providing students with full financial and advising support as they pursue bachelor’s degrees.

The luncheon honored Hawa Abraham and Ansumana Jammeh, graduates of Columbia University, and Tiffany Wilson, a graduate of Queens College.

“You are at a crossroads to the next stage of your lives,” President Cocco De Filippis told the graduates. “Be proud of being community college graduates and hold your heads high. Community colleges provide the foundation for so many students who go on to earn bachelor’s degrees and beyond like yourselves.”

The event also featured remarks from Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Andrea Fabrizio, Professor of English Dr. Linda Hirsch, and was moderated by Research Programs Director Dr. Sofía Oviedo.

Before the student reflections, Ansumana Jammeh read “Wisdom,” a poem attributed to Makeda, the Queen of Sheba, the legendary African monarch who lived nearly a thousand years before Christ. The poem celebrates wisdom as more precious than jewels and sweeter than honey, a guiding force that nurtures understanding, reflection, and compassion.

Inspired by the poem’s message, Abraham, who will begin a Master of Public Health program at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health this fall, reflected on her journey: “I didn’t know I was this smart. Everything really fell into place because of the foundation we got at Hostos.”

“My first semester was difficult because I missed Hostos,” said Wilson of her transition to Queens College. “But once I changed my mindset and embraced the experience, everything became different for me.”

For Jammeh, the journey reinforced the importance of mentorship and community. “Owing to the foundation that I received here at Hostos, from my English professors to my science professors, they did a tremendous job preparing us,” he said.

We are proud of you, dear NextGen alumni!

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500 Grand Concourse Street
New York, NY
10451

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+17185184444

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