By Fernanda Arellano and Valeria Medina
Q: How would you describe your club to someone who’s never heard of it before?
A: “I would describe Cafecito y Chisme as a student-led organization and safe space for Latinas to share experiences, support one another, and grow together. We redefine “chisme” as storytelling, knowledge-sharing, and cultural connection,” Elizabeth Martinez stated.
Q: Who are the founders of the organizations?
A: “Cafecito y Chisme was founded by Latina students at Dominican University who wanted to create a dedicated space for Latina empowerment and community. The founding members include Elizabeth Martinez, who is majoring in political science and serves as President of Cafecito y Chisme.”
Q: What inspired you to create this club, and what is its main goal?
A: “The inspiration came from the lack of a Latina-focused organization on campus, even though Dominican is a Hispanic-Serving Institution with about 40% Latina students. Our main goal is to build community, foster empowerment, and celebrate Latina identity–ensuring Latinas feel supported, visible, and valued from their first day on campus,” said Martinez.
“This vision is personal to me. As a third-year transfer student and first-generation Latina, I have often battled imposter syndrome. Last fall, I had the opportunity to take Latina Theology and Spirituality with my first Latina professor, Dr. Herrera. For the first time in my academic journey, I was in a room filled with Latinas, engaging in discussions that truly reflected our experiences. That class was more than an academic space — it was healing. It was affirming. It showed me the power of seeing and being seen. But we shouldn’t have to wait until our third year–or our first Latina professor — to feel that sense of belonging. Cafecito y Chisme ensures that every Latina at Dominican has a space where she is valued, supported, and empowered from day one. Dominican prides itself on serving Hispanic students. Now, it’s time to ensure that Latinas have a dedicated space to uplift and empower one another. If you have ever felt like you didn’t belong in higher education, let me remind you: you do. And together, we won’t just survive–we’ll thrive.”
Q: What makes your club different from others on campus?
A: “Our club is uniquely focused on Latinas. While Dominican has cultural and identity-based groups, Cafecito y Chisme is the only organization specifically dedicated to uplifting Latina voices, addressing their challenges, and celebrating their successes.
Q:Is the club open to everyone, if so what type of students typically join?
A: “Yes, our club is open to everyone! While our focus is on Latinas, students of all backgrounds who value community, culture, and sisterhood are welcome. Members are typically those who want to connect, share stories, and engage in meaningful dialogue.”
Q: What does a typical meeting or event look like?
A: “Our Cafecito Chats are monthly gatherings with coffee, snacks, and discussions on topics like identity, career, self-care, and social justice. We also host cultural celebrations like Día de los Muertos, mentorship workshops, and advocacy events. Every meeting is a blend of connection, reflection, and celebration.”
Q: What is the biggest achievement your club has made so far?
A: “Our biggest achievement has been creating a dedicated Latina-focused space that didn’t exist before. Establishing Cafecito y Chisme means Latinas now have a place where their voices are centered, their culture is celebrated, and their presence on campus is affirmed.”
Q: How can being part of this club help students personally or academically?
A: “Personally, it gives students a hermandad (sisterhood) and a support system that counters feelings of isolation. Academically, it helps with mentorship, networking, and professional development–ultimately boosting retention and success rates for first-generation students.”
Q: What events this semester or year are you most excited for?
A: “We are especially excited to host our first two events of the semester! The first is Conchas and Conversations, where students can connect through meaningful dialogue while painting their own mugs and enjoying cafecito with a concha. The second is our Pilates Wellness Event this October, a collaboration with FemInStem that focuses on health, self-care, and community.”
Q: Do you collaborate with other clubs or organizations on and off campus?
A: “Yes! Collaboration is central to our mission. We work with other student clubs at Dominican, and we also hope to connect with local community groups that align with our values of advocacy, education equity, and cultural celebration.”
Q: Do you have any last questions, thoughts, or comments you want to share?
A: “Cafecito y Chisme is more than a club–it’s a movement to uplift Latinas on campus. If you’ve ever felt out of place in higher education, this is your reminder: you do belong. Join us for cafecito, conversation, and community–because together, we don’t just survive, we thrive.”
