By: Carlee Nigro and Samantha Swayze
October 15, 2026
Students dancing the night away at the EOP Fiesta in Ferry. (Photo by Samantha Swayze)
The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) hosted their 11th annual Hispanic Heritage Month inspired Fiesta on Thursday, Oct. 15 from 8 to 11 p.m. on the second floor of the Ferry Building.
The fiesta had an electric dance floor with tasty Hispanic food and great music to dance the night away with.
“I genuinely loved the fiesta,” said Jyaziel Quiles, sophomore early child education major. “It was so beautiful seeing everyone come together to celebrate our culture, and the energy made it such a fun and memorable experience. I loved being able to enjoy the music, food, and just feel that sense of community. It was definitely a night to remember!”
The food selection included fried plantains, Spanish rice, black beans, chicken, and various empanadas.
“The food was amazing,” said Carlee Nigro, senior writing major with a minor in criminal justice. “I had the chicken and it was really flavorful, and the cheese empanada gave me life.”
A cheese empanada, chicken, and yellow rice with beans at the EOP Fiesta. (Photo by Carlee Nigro)
This event was greatly loved by all, even by the students serving food for the event.
“The fiesta was a thrilling night,” said Nick Storms, Student Activities student worker and senior communication major. “Students and faculty came not only for the food, but also to dance and reconnect with one another. I loved seeing how everything turned out. Most importantly, the event reminded us that even as a small university, Centenary continues to bring students out of their dorms and create an inclusive environment for the campus community.”
For the seniors graduating this upcoming May, this year’s fiesta was one to remember!
“This was my fourth and last fiesta at Centenary,” said Jordan Henderson, senior animal health major. “As usual the food, the people, the music, and the energy of the event allows me and many other students to unwind and enjoy ourselves.”
Devon Viavla, director of EOP, and Diana Alzate eating together at the EOP Fiesta. (Photo by Jordan Henderson)
Students dancing to the Cha-Cha Slide during the EOP Fiesta. (Photo by Taylor Fallon)
If you are looking to join EOP or want to go to any of their events, contact Devon Vialva at devon.vialva@centenaryuniversity.edu and Eunice Boyd at eunice.boyd@centenaryuniversity.edu.
“Fiesta, salsa, quinceañera, baila / Siente el ritmo, ponte a sonreír”