Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month - Gina Sanchez Nuñez '03

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are also celebrating our Hispanic alumnae through our Q&A series! Gina Sanchez Nuñez '03 discusses what Hispanic Heritage Month means to her and offers advice for current Mother McAuley students.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Personally, Hispanic Heritage Month means being appreciative of and grateful for the sacrifices my parents and grandparents made to give my sisters and me access to better opportunities. This month allows for time to honor our cultures, celebrate the communities within them, and show how truly proud we are to be part of them.

What are your favorite cultural traditions?
Two of my favorite Mexican cultural traditions are celebrating Dia de ls Muertos (Day of the Dead) where we honor our deceased loved ones and making tamales with my family during Christmastime!

Who are your Latino role models?
My Latino role models are first and foremost my parents for having the utmost integrity and an incredible work ethic. I also admire Frida Kahlo for her tenacity and talent, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor for her empathy and respect for the dignity of all people, y la Reina Selena for her kindness and courage.

What advice would you give to Latina students at McAuley?
I would encourage Latina students at McAuley to embrace their identities and be proud of their heritage! Stay focused on education and setting challenging goals, explore college and career options early, and don't be scared to reach out for guidance - you have so many people cheering for you!