On Friday, September 26, Tillamook Bay Community College (TBCC) hosted a vibrant Cultural Celebration to honor Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from September 15 to October 15. Over 100 community members joined together on campus for an evening of music, food, games, and fun.
The celebration featured a performance by a mariachi band, and Taqueria Mendez, a local food vendor, catered the event by serving tacos for all. Guests also participated in arts and crafts, trivia, and traditional games, creating an inclusive atmosphere for celebrating Hispanic and Latinx heritage.
“We are proud to host this celebration as part of our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community connection,” said Dr. Paul Jarrell, President of TBCC. “It’s events like these that allow us to honor the rich cultures within our community and bring people together in joy and learning.”
This year’s celebration coincides with a notable institutional recognition: TBCC was included in Washington Monthly’s “America’s Best Hispanic-Serving Colleges” list. This ranking evaluates how well colleges serve Hispanic students. Washington Monthly’s methodology combines social mobility, graduation, and transfer outcomes for Hispanic students, institutional support efforts, affordability, and other metrics tied to student success. TBCC was the only school named on the list from Oregon, including four-year institutions.
Being named in that list affirms TBCC’s dedication to supporting Hispanic and Latinx students and offering equitable opportunities. The college’s commitment to inclusive programming — such as the Cultural Celebration — underscores its mission to cultivate a welcoming, supportive educational environment for all members of the community.
