Welcome to the School of Health Professions
Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
The mission of the School of Health Professions’ (SHP) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Office is to collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and key stakeholders to promote a shared understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The Office seeks to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive culture within the SHP by celebrating its diversity, fostering awareness, and developing strategies that support inclusion and belonging. We strive to encourage growth, engagement, and advocacy for all members of the School. In partnership with School leadership, the DEIB Office provides guidance and recommendations related to policies, professional development, and pedagogical practices in alignment with the mission of the School of Health Professions.
The School of Health Professions Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15 - October 15
Unidos, Somos, or Together, We Are More!
This year’s theme reflects the power of unity, shared identity, and collective strength. Across many Hispanic and Latino cultures, family, community, and meaningful relationships are important sources of connection, support, and belonging. These values are often expressed through familismo—a cultural concept emphasizing the importance of family relationships, mutual support, and a sense of responsibility toward loved ones.
While Hispanic and Latino communities represent a rich diversity of countries, traditions, languages, and experiences, the idea of coming together to support one another is a meaningful shared value for many. Whether through family gatherings, community celebrations, cultural traditions, or support across generations, these connections can help preserve heritage and foster a sense of belonging.
“Somos” – The meaning of community
In many Hispanic and Latino communities, togetherness extends beyond the immediate family. Friends, neighbors, extended family, and community members may form strong support networks that celebrate milestones, navigate challenges, and provide care across generations. These relationships reflect the understanding that individual well-being is often connected to the well-being of the larger community.
What does this mean?
The spirit of Unidos, Somos also resonates deeply SHP. Collaboration, compassion, cultural understanding, and mutual respect are essential to creating environments where individuals feel valued and supported. As faculty, staff, and students, we each bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich our school community.
By embracing our differences and recognizing our shared purpose, we can strengthen connections, encourage belonging, and work together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve.
Check out some upcoming SBU HHM Events:
Join HSO and LASO for Raíces & Rasin on Tuesday, September 29th, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM in SAC Ballroom A! Come celebrate the Latin American culture of Haiti and other countries, as well as the heritage and community. There will be an opportunity to enjoy food, music, and activities while learning about the traditions and cultural roots represented by both organizations. Come together with us for a night of cultural appreciation, connection, and celebration!
Come and create beautiful decorations as we kick off Hispanic Heritage Month!
UNITI Hangout is a weekly Wednesday space to relax, connect, and have fun while celebrating different cultures, identities, and experiences. Through a series of events, we’ll explore creativity, curiosity, and most importantly—have fun!
This week, join the UCC team on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM as we decorate the UNITI Cultural Center (Union 113) in Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month!
Enjoy Dunkin Pumpkin Munchkins and Hot Chocolate for the first 50 participants!
On Wednesday 9/30 from 7-9:30pm at the Stony Brook Union Auditorium, LMSA in partnership with Health Sciences Student Life, will host local physician and author, Dr. Harold Fernandez.
Join us for a special screening his powerful documentary (Undocumented) that follows his journey from Colombia to arriving in the United States undocumented, through his path to medicine. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion, Q&A and a book signing.
37th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Opening Celebration & Street Fair
You are warmly invited to join us for Stony Brook University’s 37th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Opening Celebration & Street Fair:
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Location: Student Activities Center Plaza
Inspiring the Future: Latinos in Health Care
Faculty Panel and Meet & Greet
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 | 6:00 PM –8:00 PM | UNITI Cultural Center - SB Union 113
Join us for a dynamic Health Professions Panel where SBU’s own Latino faculty from Stony Brook Medicine and the Health Sciences will share their journeys and offer expert advice on achieving your dreams.
Panelists:
Carley Gomes, MD – Neonatology
*Gloria Viboud, PhD, SM (ASCP) – Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Giselle Gerardi, PhD, RN, RNC-OB, C-EFM – School of Nursing
Maria E. Torres, PhD, MA – Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, School of Social Welfare
*Rosalia Casanova, OTD, OTR/L – Occupational Therapy
*SHP Faculty
- Check out SBU Engage for the full list of events to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!
- HHM Award & Scholarship Nomination Form
The application deadline for all Hispanic Heritage Month Awards and Scholarships is MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2026. Winners will be announced at the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Closing Ceremony on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
You can nominate students/faculty /staff (you must be logged in to your Stony Brook University Gmail account to access these forms).
