CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — Carlos Andrés Gómez, award-winning poet, speaker, actor and author of the memoir "Man Up: Reimagining Modern Manhood," visited Penn State Lehigh Valley on Sept. 19 to perform for students, faculty and staff in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Through his poetry, Gómez was able to engage and connect with the audience by talking about relatable experiences and beliefs.
Gómez offered his insight on marriage equality and family separation at the border. One of his poems shed light on his insight on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection as an American-Latino. Along with poetry, Gómez incorporated humor into the performance.
When asked what he wants students to take away from his performance, Gómez said, “I hope that the students leave here thinking and feeling deeply. Also, knowing that they’re enough.”
The Office of Student Life organized this event to encourage students, faculty and staff to celebrate and participate in National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.
"We were so happy to have Carlos visit our campus and share his story and his amazing spoken-word artistry. His message resonated with many in the audience," said Pam Fleck, assistant director of student affairs at Penn State Lehigh Valley. "Events like this celebrate the diversity found at Penn State Lehigh Valley."