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QCC Joins Others Across the Country in the I Stand with Immigrants Day of Action

Contact: Karen Hutner
Office of Institutional Communications
khutner [at] qcc.mass.edu

Release Date: 
10/18/2018

WORCESTER, MA—October 18, 2018 — Quinsigamond Community College will join together with over 100 colleges and universities across the country in the I Stand With Immigrants Day of Action on Wednesday, October 24. The college will hold an event at noon in the Hebert Auditorium at its 670 West Boylston Street, Worcester campus. The I Stand With Immigrants Day of Action was developed to celebrate and encourage people to explore their diverse, individual heritages and recognize the distinct and mutual experiences we all share. The QCC event will feature food, photos, and conversations with QCC President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja and other immigrants. The public is also invited to attend and share their stories.

President Pedraja, who emigrated from Cuba and grew up in a low-income Miami neighborhood, knows firsthand what it’s like to be an immigrant to this country. He was the first in his family to attend college; later earning his Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. His background gives him a unique understanding and perspective in the struggles that immigrants face in their pursuit of a higher education and a better life.

“Our diverse stories and history make up the unique and special fabric of the country that we all call ‘home’ today. The basic human rights in our country of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are for everyone; however, today education still marks a great divide, particularly in our immigrant communities. If we are to achieve equity, education must be a part of the solution,” said President Pedraja.

For more information, contact Josh Martin, Director of Institutional Communications at 508.854.7513 or jmartin [at] qcc.mass.edu

Quinsigamond Community College is the most affordable higher education in Worcester County. As a regional leader in education and workforce development, QCC serves the diverse educational needs of Central Massachusetts by providing affordable, accessible, and high quality programming leading to transfer, career, and lifelong learning.