By Mia McCauley, Student Affairs Intern
Graduating from UW–Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, double major in French, and minor in art history, Latine Cultural Center (LCC) Program Coordinator Natalie Ergas has knowledge and experience transcending the ordinary.
Throughout her undergrad, Ergas was heavily involved with the Chancellor’s Scholarship for Diversity and Leadership, during which she became impassioned for community service and leadership development.
“After teaching in the public school system for over eight years, I had a strong love for education in general, no matter what age or level my students were at,” Ergas explained.
With her fondness for mentorship, Ergas believes she was “called to work in higher education,” aiming to guide students through their formative college years.
“As a first-generation college student, I remember how influential my college experience was, and I wanted to be able to assist students in that same way.”
Upon her realization, Ergas began applying for positions that aligned with these goals, eventually discovering, and applying for, the role of UW–Madison Latine Cultural Center program coordinator.
“Accepting the position of LCC program coordinator instantly gave me the chance to share and celebrate my own identity, while simultaneously connecting with students of similar backgrounds. It was incredibly fulfilling,”
Though the center and its events may vary from its initial establishment in 2018, Ergas stated their goals remain the same.
“It’s always been about centering Latine students. Their experiences, wishes, hopes, dreams, intersections, and cultures are what’s important. I always want to uplift that,” she shared.
“For me, it’s important to recognize that our center is ever-changing and evolving, just like our students. Their feedback is how we thrive, and through acknowledging and listening, we can create a better environment for individuals of all identities.”
That said, over the past year there has been a shift in the center’s name, from Latinx to Latine.
“When determining this name transition, it was especially important to connect with students over multiple modalities, such as formal survey, or our ‘What’s in a name: Latinx/a/e/o’ event,” Ergas explained. “Based on the responses, it was clear students preferred ‘Latine,’ and we needed to honor that heading into this upcoming heritage month,” Ergas said.
As one of four identity centers within the UW–Madison Multicultural Student Center, The LCC and its events are predominantly student driven.
This year from September 15-October 15, students and faculty celebrate Latine Heritage Month on our campus, with the theme, “Illuminating Our Voices.”
“Being program coordinator, the best part of my job is communicating and connecting with my students. Whether it’s a simple conversation, providing campus resources, or brainstorming future keynote events for Latine Heritage Month, I want my students to know I’m always there to attentively support them.”
Through a rich community and extensive network, The LCC serves as a home away from home for many students on campus.
“Our center can, and should be, a place for students to come and exist in their most authentic selves,” said Ergas. “Both myself and the center are full of resources, and I am committed to guiding my students to the answers they need, even if it’s something I don’t know off hand.”
On a large campus like UW–Madison, students often struggle to find their place, making centers like the LCC even more important.
At the same time, celebrating these centers is not limited to one intersection, and all campus members are encouraged to attend events thoughtfully.
“Our students are accomplishing great things, and the support of our community speaks highly to fostering an inspiring and motivational environment. We want everyone to feel welcome.”
Visit the MSC website for more information, or stop by the space on the second floor of the Red Gym.