Featured photo by Halima Ibrahim
Story by Halima Ibrahim
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The vibrant pulse of salsa music returned to the campus of Middle Tennessee State University in a triumphant revival of the beloved traditions, Salsa Under the Stars. Spearheaded by the collective efforts of various campus groups, this event not only celebrated Latin culture but also showcased the power of collaboration and community spirit.
The process of the event began with Annissia Emanuel, a dedicated dance instructor at the Campus Recreation. Manuel’s inspiration came from speaking to a fellow employee about the university’s pre-pandemic salsa nights. With this idea in mind. Emanuel approached Tess Swastek, a fitness coordinator at the Rec, to discuss the possibility of bringing back the event.
“Tess was immediately on board with it when I mentioned the idea to her. She brought up the nutrition team and that they could actually make salsa,” Emanuel recounted.
Collaboration became the cornerstone of the events success. Alex Torres Martinez, the president of La Communidad, an organization on campus that’s main purpose is to increase Latino culture on campus and provide a support system for Latino students, expressed interest in organizing similar cultural events on campus. Recognizing the opportunity to partner with La Comunidad and the Student Government Association, Emanuel, along with Swastek’s help, worked to make this vision a reality.
In their quest to bring the event back, Angela and Francisco Ramos, lecturers in the Health and Human Performance department at the university, were brought back as instructors for it. Both directors of the MTSU Performance Art company or MPAC, the couple brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the dance floor, elevating the event to new heights.
“As far as dances goes…anytime MTSU or students want us to do a dance event, we are always willing,” Angella Ramoas exclaimed. “We’ve done Salsa Under the Stars a few times for La Communidad and we just enjoy bringing people together in this fun outing. We all have a lot of stress going on and we know that dance is a great way to relief that stress even for just a little.”
Together, a memorable and lively evening was orchestrated filled with dance, music, gun and cultural celebration. Salsa Under the Stars epitomized the vibrancy of Latin culture and the unity of the campus community.
Martinez, reflecting on the event’s success, emphasized the importance of collaboration and inclusivity.
“My favorite thing about this particular event is spreading Latina culture.” Martinez said. “I really enjoy when other people see a different culture then their own. I really enjoy seeing people come out and enjoy something they’ve never experienced before.”
Through collaboration and dedication, Salsa Under the Stars had not only brought students together in celebration but had also strengthened bonds and brought a bit of joy into their lives.
To contact Lifestyles Editor Destiny Mizell and Assistant Lifestyles Editor Shamani Salahuddin, email lifestyles@mtsusidelines.com. For more news, visit www.mtsusidelines.com, or follow us on Instagram at MTSUSidelines or on X at @MTSUSidelines.
