About Us

Mission

The Puerto Rican/Latin American Cultural Center’s mission is to improve the general welfare of Latinos and to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the richness and diversity of Latin American cultures. The Center offers educational, cultural, and social programs, which enhance student, faculty, and staff recruitment and retention as well as the multicultural climate of our community.

History

At the University of Connecticut, three Latino students joined together and formed the Puerto Rican Student Movement to address the issues brought forth by the Civil Rights Movement. Their goal was to create an inviting environment for Latinos at UConn. The University consented to support some of the programs and activities of the movement and gave the Center it’s first home, La Casa Borinqueña, in 1972. In 1977, a full time Director’s position and full time clerical support was granted. The name of the Center changed from the Puerto Rican Center to the Puerto Rican/Latin American Cultural Center in 1985 in order to be more inclusive of all Latinos and the entire university community.