Celebrating Alumni, Our Communities, and Our Legacy
Welcome to the official Homecoming event page for the 2026 Hostos Community College Alumni Celebration. This year’s gathering will honor our proud alumni, strengthen our community bonds, and offer a full day of meaningful connection, entertainment, and family fun.
Be Part of the
HOMECOMING EXPERIENCE
Reconnect with Your Community
Meet alumni from across generations, faculty, and local professionals who share your Hostos pride.
Bring the Whole Family!
children 12 and under join for free
Homecoming is a celebration for all ages, bringing together alumni, families, and friends for a day of connection, pride, and fun. Families are encouraged to attend, and children 12 and under enjoy free admission. While alumni reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the Hostos community, younger guests can look forward to a special afternoon filled with exciting activities in the Gymnasium.
During the afternoon portion of the program, children can enjoy face painting, balloon animals, cotton candy, and visits from a friendly clown, creating a festive and memorable experience for the whole family. A 360° photo station will also be available, offering guests of all ages the chance to capture fun memories and take home a unique keepsake from the celebration.
Whether you're reconnecting with classmates, making new memories with family, or simply enjoying the Homecoming spirit, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Exclusive Activities and Performances
Enjoy live entertainment, cultural experiences, and professional development opportunities.
EVENT PROGRAM
Registration and Warm Welcome Experience
From the moment you arrive, the Homecoming celebration comes to life. At the registration table, guests will receive a commemorative Homecoming T-shirt, event program, alumni gift bag, and name tag before stepping into a day of reconnecting with friends, making new memories, and celebrating the Hostos community.
10:00 AM
C-Bldg Lobby
Then & Now, Hostos History and Archives Tour
Led by Prof. William Casari
Take a guided walk through Hostos Community College’s past, present, and future. Discover the College’s proud achievements, explore the challenges that shaped its resilience, and get an inside look at exciting new plans—including our new 558 Grand Concourse building project. This tour highlights Hostos’ legacy, its ongoing impact in the South Bronx, and the bold opportunities ahead for the next generation.
11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
C-Bldg Lobby
Breakfast Reception
Sponsored by Kofee. Guests are invited to a reserved breakfast area for a hosted morning reception featuring a selection of light breakfast offerings and opportunities to connect with campus leadership, alumni leaders, and special guests.
10:00 AM
Research Center, C-130
Hostos Basketball Expo or Clinic
Led by Chyna Bryant ‘26 et al.
This basketball clinic will offer attendees an engaging and educational experience focused on skill development, teamwork, and confidence building. The clinic will be led by two former Hostos Community College basketball alumni, who will guide participants through fundamental drills and interactive activities while emphasizing sportsmanship, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for the game.
11:30 AM
Gym
Opening Ceremony
President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Mr. Benny Lorenzo, Mr. Ifeanyi Obinali ’15, VP Julie Gafney, and Felix Sánchez ‘02 deliver a warm welcome emphasizing community pride, alumni achievement, and the Hostos legacy. Includes a performance by Batalá to set the tone for the remainder of the event day.
10:30 AM
C-Bldg Lobby
Lunch with the President Featuring Live Music by Emmanuel Diaz ‘08 & Band
Join us for a special lunch with Hostos Community College President, Dr. Daisy Cocco De Filippis, where meaningful conversation meets a lively atmosphere. As you enjoy a delicious luncheon with summer barbecue favorites, Hostos alumnus Emmanuel Diaz ‘08 and his band will provide an exciting live performance. This experience is designed to bring together alumni, faculty, staff, students, and guests for an afternoon of connection, celebration, and Hostos pride.
12:30 PM
Hostos Café
Hostos Excellence Ted Talks
Moderated by Ricardo Cosme Ruiz ‘10,
Special Advisor for NYC & Downstate Justice Initiatives NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services
Small group conversations led by Hostos alumni, and professionals, empowering guests to explore current topics, gain insight, and share lived experiences. The following sessions are designed to be engaging, practical, and highly relevant to today’s career and community landscape. on.
1:45 PM – 4:05 PM
Research Center, C-130
AI & You: Thriving in a World Powered by Artificial Intelligence
Led by Benny Lorenzo,
Managing Partner at Aspira Capital Management
An energizing, beginner-friendly conversation exploring how AI is changing every industry, how to stay competitive, and how to use AI tools to simplify your daily life and boost your career.
1:50 pm - 2:20 pm
Research Center
Lead Where You Are: Community Advocacy & Local Leadership
Led by Anthony Manzanet ’91, CEO & Founder of Hormiga Enterprises and The Hormiga Foundation
An inspiring session on becoming a changemaker in your community—whether through advocacy, volunteering, public service, or grassroots leadership.
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Research Center
From Idea to Impact: Launching & Growing a Successful Business (Competition Edition)
Led by Ifeanyi Obinali ’15,
President and CEO of LEAD Security Group Inc.
& Tameka Ridley ’19,
Program Manager at NYC Public Schools
Turn your vision into a viable business in this dynamic, hands‑on session. Learn how to refine your idea, build a solid growth plan, and pitch with confidence—all while getting insights on how to stand out in a business competition. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to take their next big step.
2:25 pm - 2:55 pm
Research Center
Sensing Health: Nursing Science, Taste and Smell in Patient Care
Led by Dr. Paule Valery Joseph ’05,
Tenured Senior Investigator & Co Director of the National Taste and Smell Center at NIH
An engaging workshop exploring the critical role of taste and smell in patient health and well-being. Dr. Joseph will highlight nursing centered scientific research on sensory function, its impact on nutrition, diagnosis, and quality of life, and how nurses can contribute to patient focused investigation and evidence-based care at the clinical and community level.
3:35 pm – 4:05 pm
Research Center
Children's & Family Programming
CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER JOIN FOR FREE!
Storyland’s Read & Rave
Storyland’s Read & Rave, presented in partnership with Bee True to You, is a lively, family-friendly experience that brings stories to life through interactive read-alouds, sing-alongs, music, and movement. Designed for children ages 2 to 8 and their parents or caregivers, this high-energy program combines the joy of reading with the excitement of a dance party, creating a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. Join us for an engaging celebration of literacy, learning, and play where little ones can listen, sing, move, and make lasting memories. Please note that DJ-led activities may create a louder environment; families with children who have sound sensitivities are encouraged to bring noise-canceling headphones.
2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Gym
Magic, Laughter & Family Fun Spectacular
Homecoming is a celebration for all ages, bringing together alumni, families, and friends for a day of connection, pride, and fun. Families are encouraged to attend, and children 12 and under enjoy free admission. While alumni reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the Hostos community, younger guests can look forward to a special afternoon filled with exciting activities in the Gymnasium.
3:15 PM – 4:00 PM
Gym
During the afternoon portion of the program, children can enjoy face painting, balloon animals, cotton candy, and visits from a friendly clown, creating a festive and memorable experience for the whole family. A 360° photo station will also be available, offering guests of all ages the chance to capture fun memories and take home a unique keepsake from the celebration.
Rhythm, Wellness, and Movement: Dance for the Body and Soul
Celebrate movement, music, and wellness with this series of beginner friendly dance experiences. From Salsa and Yoga to Bachata, these sessions invite you to move, sweat, and recharge while connecting with culture and community. No dance experience required, just bring your energy and enjoy the rhythm.
1:45 PM – 4:00 PM
C-152
Salsa for the Soul: A Wellness Dance Experience
Led by Maria Rivera
Move, breathe, and energize your body with this fun, beginner‑friendly Salsa session. Learn simple steps that boost confidence, reduce stress, and get your heart pumping—all while celebrating culture, music, and community. No dance experience is required!
1:45 pm – 2:25 pm
C-152
Bachata Flow: Rhythm, Movement & Mindful Joy
Led by Maria Rivera
Enjoy a smooth, beginner friendly Bachata session that blends simple footwork with uplifting music. This class helps you relax, connect with your body, and boost your mood through rhythm and movement—no dance experience needed, just good vibes!
2:30 pm – 3:10 pm
C-152
Flow & Reset: An Introduction to Yoga
Led by Dennis Treston
Step into a calming yet energizing experience designed to help you reconnect with your body and breath. This beginner friendly yoga session invites you to stretch, release tension, and find your natural rhythm through simple, guided movements. Come ready to move, unwind, and leave feeling refreshed, balanced, and inspired.
3:15 pm – 4:00 pm
C-152
Musical / Artistic Performances
Celebrate the conclusion of Homecoming with a vibrant closing reception headlined by 7-time Grammy nominated artist Bobby Sanabria and his Orchestra. The program centers on an exciting showcase of live performances, bringing together a diverse group of artists whose work reflects the cultural richness and creative spirit of the community. The program will also include acknowledgments and expressions of gratitude to attendees, performers, and facilitators.
4:15 PM – 5:30 PM
Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture
Bobby Sanabria Quintet with Antoinette Montague
A dynamic blend of Jazz and Latin music led by renowned percussionist Bobby Sanabria, joined by acclaimed vocalist Antoinette Montague.
(Gambia)
A masterful Kora performance rooted in the West African Griot musical tradition, offering a deeply expressive and cultural experience.
(Garifuna)
A Bronx based ensemble presenting vibrant Garifuna music and dance, highlighting Afro Caribbean rhythms and traditions.
A spoken word performance celebrating Dominican identity, storytelling, and heritage.
Closing Reception Experience
Guests will enjoy a welcoming reception with wine and beverages in a relaxed and celebratory setting. A dedicated photo backdrop will be available for group and family pictures, creating lasting memories of the day. This festive gathering offers an opportunity to connect, reflect, and celebrate together, bringing the Homecoming experience to a warm and memorable close.
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Gallery
