Rice University’s Housing and Dining staff were celebrated April 10 at an appreciation event hosted by the Hispanic Association for Cultural Enrichment at Rice (HACER), recognizing their hard work and dedication that help make the campus feel like home.
Held in Sid Richardson Quad, the afternoon event featured a special lunch, student performances and cultural showcases. Rice’s student-led Mariachi Luna Llena and Los Búhos del Norte performed as attendees enjoyed food and thank-you notes from students and staff.
“You all keep things moving on this campus, day in and day out,” said Beth Leaver, interim assistant vice president for housing, dining and hospitality. “You make this campus feel like home because of your deep culture of care.
“That is the essence of the Rice experience. Today is one of those days where we can come together and just be reminded of how great this community is.”
The event, part of HACER’s mission to celebrate Latine culture and strengthen campus connections, served as a joyful moment of appreciation for the people who help make Rice a welcoming place to live and learn.
“H&D staff are the backbone of Rice,” said junior Saul Gonzalez, co-president of HACER. “Without their hard work, Rice wouldn’t be what it is. For some of us, we find connections with workers reminding us of home, creating a welcoming space knowing I can speak in my native language.”
“We’re honored to have hosted this event for staff to express our gratitude as students,” said senior Caleb Solorzano, co-president of HACER. “This celebration is a reminder that through listening, care, shared and diverse experiences we can strengthen the community we’ve built together at Rice.”
To learn more about HACER, visit hacer.rice.edu.
