Freshman Megan LaFontaine didn’t know any students of Latino descent during her time at UW-Eau Claire, she said.
After she attended a Wednesday open house held by the newly formed Latino Student Organization, she said she realized there are other Latino students attending the university.
About 15 students attended the event, which was held in the Tamarack Room in Davies Center, said Student Services Coordinator Stephanie Zighelboim.
“We decided to do an open house and meet each other because it’s very important for the continuing success of Latino students,” she said.
The Latino Student Organization offers students “the opportunity to participate in positions of leadership on campus,” Zighelboim said.
The group is still a work in progress, she said, adding it has yet to elect officers and design a logo.
Zighelboim said when Latino students talked to her, she noticed they don’t realize other Latino students are on campus.
Sophomore Sara Bachleitner attended the meeting because she wanted to meet other Latino students in Eau Claire.
Senior Darius Torres said the organization allowed him to meet new students as well.
“It’s a nice opportunity to get to know other Latinos and speak Spanish,” he said.
Zighelboim said the group hopes to give Latinos a voice on campus.
About 1 percent of Eau Claire’s student population is Latino, which includes students from South America, Central America and Mexico, she said.
Senior Megan Algiers said she wants to find more diversity on campus.
“Latino students on campus don’t see (each other) much day to day,” she said.
The biggest thing is to get involved, she said.
Zighelboim said the group will help students stay close to their heritage and learn more about their roots.
“We want people to embrace who they are,” she said. “Culture and ethnicity don’t define who you are, but it definitely impacts your personality and values.”
LaFontaine said the group offers a great opportunity for participants to communicate with each other via Spanish.
Zighelboim agreed.
“It’s very important for the continuing success for Latino students on campus for them to be able to participate in activities that connect to their culture,” she said.
Zighelboim said the organization fills a great need and void.
“(The organization) is continuing the UWEC tradition to maintain excellence,” Zighelboim said.
By assisting Latino students, they will ultimately stay at the university and reach out to incoming freshmen, she said.
“Just don’t be shy about coming,” LaFontaine said. “It’s informal and a lot f fun.”