Bridgewater, Va.- On Oct. 14, the Campus Engagement and Activity Team (CEAT) and Latinx Student Association (LSA) co-sponsored a salsa night in the Kline Campus Center (KCC) from 8:00 p.m. to 10 p.m., that received an unexpectedly large turnout.
In the middle of the KCC, a dance floor was spread out for salsa dancing. The salsa instructor was Edwin Roa, who began teaching each of the students in partners how to salsa. Step back, step forward, repeat, then step side to side.
Near the end of the night, a dance contest was held for the BC students. In the end, only three teams remained, and a winning team was chosen based on other participants’ cheering votes
“My friend and I, if we were to go to the semifinals. We knew we would have to compete against one another. It was already a fun experience,” said senior Chelsea Dillard.
Competing against one another, partners Dillard and sophomore Jadon Goldsmith danced their hearts out on stage to win the $25 gift card to Smitty’s. In the end, there can only be one winner, Dillard.
“I knew a little about salsa and marimba, but it was fun learning more about it,” said Dillard.
The event included a salsa and chips bar, along with churros and horchata, a cinnamon-spiced rice flavored beverage. Ice cream was also available.
Along with the Talavera Tiles from the night before, raffle prizes were being given away during the event. Tickets were handed out at Talavera and at the door at Salsa Night. Three winners were announced for a self-care and $50 to El Sol basket, a snack basket and a game night basket.
CEAT, LSA, and Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion all had tables at the event. While CEAT held the raffles, LSA explained what their group was about. The last table held tote bags promoting the latter office.
Around the room, flags from Latin America decorated the space. “Decorations were chosen in order to inclusively represent Latin American countries,” said junior Louis Gutierrez.
Overall, the night was festive for all the participants. Professors and students alike came to appreciate the dancing and food.
“I am very excited for this event and the time the college recognizes the community and is celebrating,” said Vimari Colon-Leon, professor of music. “The Latino community is growing. I like that there are so many taking the time to celebrate the event.”
