Building Belonging: The LatinX Student Union at Eagle Rock School

At Eagle Rock School, students are encouraged to embrace their identities and celebrate cultural diversity. For Latino/a/X students, the LatinX Student Union (LSU) serves as a transformative space where heritage and self-expression take center stage. Founded to create a sense of belonging, the LSU has become a cornerstone of cultural connection and community on campus. Through shared experiences and meaningful initiatives, this group empowers students to take pride in their identities and advocate for themselves and their peers.

Sandy Rivera: A Passionate Leader and Mentor

Sandy Rivera, Eagle Rock’s Residential Life Coordinator and LSU advisor, is no stranger to our community. A graduate of Eagle Rock herself, Sandy joined the ER18 cohort in 1999, marking the beginning of a lifelong relationship with the institution. As a first-generation El Salvadorian American from Los Angeles, Sandy’s journey is deeply rooted in the values of resilience, connection, and giving back.

After graduating from Eagle Rock, Sandy stayed connected by sponsoring students and helping her own family members enroll. Her professional career included 16 years in human resources, but her passion for working directly with youth eventually brought her back to student services at Eagle Rock. Recognizing the growing Latino population on campus, Sandy saw an opportunity to foster community and connection by founding the Latin Student Union.

The mission is clear: provide a space where students can freely express their culture, engage in self-discovery, and develop leadership skills. Her efforts have created a vibrant hub for cultural awareness, pride, and advocacy that resonates deeply with Eagle Rock’s values of inclusion and empowerment.

Celebrating Culture and Building Community

The LatinX Student Union is open to all students who identify as Latino, Latina, or LatinX, creating a space to explore and celebrate their heritage. Under Sandy’s guidance, the group organizes activities that highlight the richness and diversity of Latin American cultures.

One standout initiative was the group’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which included volunteering at cultural events, learning about traditions, and hosting campus activities. For Día de los Muertos, students created an altar on campus and collaborated with the Estes Park School District community by contributing to their public altar. Trips to Denver’s art district and Fort Collins for a Day of the Dead play brought students closer to their heritage while fostering a sense of pride and belonging. 

This trimester, the LSU will begin collaborating with other groups on campus, such as the Black Student Union and Spectrum, to explore intersections of culture and identity. By organizing events like students attending Festival del Maíz, cultural plays, and community celebrations, the LSU encourages students to learn about and support other communities while deepening their understanding of their own.

Through weekly meetings, the group dives into discussions about identity, representation, and cultural pride. Students watch videos of activists and performers sharing their stories, engage in community-building activities, and find their voices as advocates for themselves, their families, and others.

A Broader Impact on Eagle Rock’s Culture

The LatinX Student Union doesn’t just create a sense of belonging for its members—it enriches the entire Eagle Rock community. By fostering cultural pride and leadership, the group helps break down stereotypes and encourages open dialogue across campus.

This focus on identity and self-expression aligns with Eagle Rock’s broader mission of empowering students to take charge of their education and personal growth. LSU members gain the confidence to lead initiatives, advocate for their peers, and share their knowledge with others, creating a ripple effect that impacts the entire school culture.

Sandy highlights how the LSU provides students with a platform to explore their potential: “Many students mentioned feeling invisible, but this group gives them a voice and helps them realize their power. Seeing them grow into leaders who can guide and inspire others is incredible.”

Looking Ahead

The LatinX Student Union continues to expand its vision, with plans to establish a Spanish Language Club and Spanish Book Club and celebrate Black History Month by highlighting Afro-Latino cultures. Future events aim to incorporate mariachi music and Aztec dance performances, creating even more opportunities for students to connect with their heritage and share it with the community.

As Sandy and the LSU look to the future, collaboration with other campus groups remains a priority. Together, they aim to foster an inclusive environment where all students feel seen, heard, and celebrated.

A Place to Belong

The LatinX Student Union at Eagle Rock School exemplifies the power of community and cultural pride. By creating a safe and supportive space for Latinx students, the LSU empowers its members to embrace their identities, develop leadership skills, and make a lasting impact on campus and beyond.

For prospective students seeking a school that values diversity, inclusion, and student empowerment, Eagle Rock offers a unique opportunity to grow academically, personally, and culturally. Through groups like the LatinX Student Union, every student has a chance to find their place, make connections, and celebrate who they are. If you’re a student interested in learning more about our admissions process, we invite you to reach out. For educators looking to foster intentional community, consider applying for our Fellowship program. There is a place for everyone on campus.