Fall 2024 Events

La Bienvenida

The Serna Center works to increase a sense of belonging and inclusion for Latinx students at Sacramento State. This annual event welcomes incoming and returning students to the Hornet familia and celebrates Chicanx/Latinx culture. Students will have an opportunity to build community and connect with campus leadership, Latinx and multicultural student clubs/organizations, and key campus resource centers. Join us for music, light refreshments, and giveaways!

Location: Library Quad
Date: Wednesday, September 18 | 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Jotería Social with the PRIDE Center

The Serna Center creates social opportunities that celebrate culture and build community. In celebration of Pride Week, the jotería social is an opportunity for students to develop a sense of familia and belonging, while enjoying music, refreshments, and a chance to win prizes.

Location: Serna Center Lounge
Date: Wednesday, October 9 | 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Café y Conversación (Coffee & Conversation) Career Exploration Series

Although there has been an increase in graduation rates among Chicanx/Latinx students, many still struggle to find career opportunities post-graduation. Café y Conversación, or Coffee & Conversation, is a social support group that provides a space for meaningful interaction and connection among Latinx students at Sacramento State. The group meets on a monthly basis to explore topics relevant to first-generation professionals and the Latinx experience, with a focus on professional development and career readiness. In Fall 2024, the group will focus on STEAM careers and will engage with guest speakers of Latinx descent who will share their journey and career paths. A meal is served at each session.

Visit the center’s Instagram/Facebook for guest speaker details.

Location: Dolores Huerta Conference Room, Serna Center
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.

Session 1: Wednesday, September 11
Session 2: Wednesday, October 2
Session 3: Wednesday, November 6
Session 4: Wednesday, December 4

Paz, Justicia, y Libertad Art Series

Facilitated by Dr. Heidy Sarabia

The Serna Center, in collaboration with Dr. Heidy Sarabia, professor of Sociology, will host a three-part art series, Paz, Justicia, y Libertad (Peace, Justice, and Liberty). The immersive series, curated for Latinx students and guided by passionate Latinx artists, will encourage participants to explore the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage as they express themes of peace, justice, and liberty through various types of art. These sessions serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue and storytelling, creating a space where creativity and advocacy converge. Participants are encouraged to attend all three sessions, but it is not required. All art supplies will be provided, and light refreshments will be served at each session.

Location for all: Serna Center Lounge

• Session 1: Tuesday, September 24
• Session 2: Tuesday, October 15
• Session 3: Tuesday, November 19

Satellite Services

Voz Latina | Student Health, Counseling, and Wellness Services

Recognizing and respecting cultural nuances is essential for effective mental health support. The Serna Center, in collaboration with Student Health, Counseling, and Wellness Services, hosts Voz Latina in our space. Voz Latina is a group that provides a safe and supportive space for students who identify as part of the Latinx community. Sessions take place every week and are facilitated by Dr. Mariafé Panizo Jansana, PsyD.

Peer Counseling │ Student Health, Counseling, and Wellness Services

The Serna Center partners with Student Health, Counseling, and Wellness Services to support students’ mental health and well-being. Peer Counseling is an open, non-judgmental space where students can confidentially speak to a peer about anything and everything. Peer Counselors are not licensed professionals but rather students who are trained to be supportive, helpful listeners and problem solvers. Peer Counselors are available at the Serna Center each week to conveniently provide their services. Please see the schedule below for weekly drop-in availability, or visit the booking page to make an appointment.

Weekly drop-in schedule to be announced.