La CASA

Cultural Appreciation and Student Advocacy

Bienvenidos to the 2026-2027 academic year!

La CASA, Columbia Basin College's multicultural center, opened its doors in September 2024. It was designed to align with the college's Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) designation, the Title V Grant goals, and CBC's Inclusivo strategic plan. La CASA is committed to fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and community for individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, and intersectional identities with consideration for our growing Hispanic/Latine student population.

La CASA has dedicated spaces to study, relax, and build connections. Its diverse programming includes presentations, workshops, and resources that focus on cultural celebrations, financial literacy, professional development, and emotional well-being. By recognizing and celebrating students' identities as valuable assets, La CASA strives to foster student engagement, support academic success, and empower students to thrive both socially and professionally.

Fall Quarter Hours

Monday to Thursday

7 am to 5:30 pm

Friday

7 am to Noon

Weekends/Holidays

Closed

Services

  • 🖥️ Computer stations and printing
  • 🍽️ Kitchen
  • 🛋️ Lounge areas to socialize
  • 📚 Meeting rooms to study
  • 🧘🏽Meditation/Prayer room
  • 🧭Guidance to help navigate CBC

Additional Services

Get Involved with La CASA

Reserve a Space in La CASA

La CASA Reservations

Let Us Know How We Can Improve La CASA

La CASA Feedback Form

Community Agreements

  1. Always check in when entering La CASA.
  2. Respect this cultural space and everyone (even if you disagree).
  3. Use the front doors as the main entrance and exit.
  4. By using the community kitchen, you agree to take personal responsibility for your own safety and actions. The College is not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur while using this space or equipment.
  5. Reservations should be made in advance. Meeting spaces should only be used when reserved.
  6. Lead with inclusive and positive language.
  7. Create an inviting environment by being mindful of the space you take.
  8. Keep office hallway as a quiet space.
  9. Please be considerate that information in this space may be confidential.
  10. Clean up after yourself and return furniture and technology (game consoles, etc.) to its original place.
  11. Be an active ally and advocate when you see injustice.
  12. Understand that everyone is on a different education journey of cultural differences and encourage their growth

Meet the Staff!

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Jennifer Castro-Velazquez 🇲🇽

Director for La CASA and Title V Grant

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Jennifer Castro-Velazquez 🇲🇽

Director for La CASA and Title V Grant

Education equity is a priority of mine because it means that students and community members are informed of education opportunities and that they are provided the resources needed to succeed. As a first generation college graduate and Latina working in higher education, I aim to provide a cultural connection throughout my work. Outside of work I enjoy hiking, traveling, and trying new foods.

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New Hire Coming Soon!

Program Assistant - La CASA

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New Hire Coming Soon!

Program Assistant - La CASA

Bio coming soon.

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Ingrid Pavon-Moreno 🇪🇨

Student Worker - La CASA Mentor

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Ingrid Pavon-Moreno 🇪🇨

Student Worker - La CASA Mentor

As a Hispanic woman and first-generation immigrant, I know fisthand the challenges of arraving in a new country and starting from scratch. That's why I've made educatio and comminity service a priority in my life. I firmly believe that education opens doors, expands opportunities, and improves quality of life.

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Mateo Hernandez 🇨🇴

Student Worker - DEI Office Support

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Mateo Hernandez 🇨🇴

Student Worker - DEI Office Support

Bio coming soon!

 

Upcoming La CASA Events

Celebrando HSI Week con Paletas

When: Monday, September 21, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 2 PM
Location: Outside of La CASA by the MLK Statue

About: Stop by La CASA's table and learn about CBC as a Hispanic-Serving Institution while enjoying paletas.

Foundation Scholarship Workshop

When: Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 12 PM
Location: La CASA (T402)

About: The deadline to complete your CBC Foundation application is September 30, 2026. The support services listed below are aimed at helping you meet the deadline!

Staff will be available to assist with:
  • Answering general application and eligibility questions
  • Writing your essay responses
  • Spanish interpretation

HSI 101 y Pupusas

When: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Time: 12 to 1 PM
Location: La CASA (T402)

About: Learn about Hispanic-Serving Institutions and the role they play in studnet success while enjoying pupusas.

Orgullo y Business

When: Monday, September 28, 2026
Time: 10 AM - 2 PM
Location: Gjerde Atrium (H Building)
About: Stop by and support local Hispanic owned businesses! Discover unique products, connect with local entrepreneurs, and shop local.
In collaboration with ASCBC.

Campus Resources

Academic Success Center (ASC)

The Academic Success Center provides tutoring, peer mentoring, and other resources to help you unlock your academic potential on your journey towards academic success.

ASC

Associated Students of Columbia Basin College (ASCBC) Clubs

The purpose of student clubs at CBC is to provide opportunities for the enhancement of academic, cultural, social and recreational aspects of student life through participation in group programs and activities.

ASCBC

College Assistant Migrant Program (CAMP)

CAMP helps students who come from a migrant or seasonal farm-working background during their first year of college with life changing resources. CAMP offers academic, career, financial and support services to facilitate your transition into college.

CAMP

Disability Support Services (DSS)

Disability Support Services (DSS) is dedicated to ensuring equal access and inclusion for all students with either provisional or permanent physical, health, learning, sensory or psychological disabilities. Accommodations may include adaptive equipment, technology, testing, classroom tools and information.

DSS

Food Pantry

Our amazing partnership with Second Harvest allows us to stock our pantry with fresh produce, dairy products, bread, as well as dry and canned goods.

Food Pantry

Math, Engineering & Science Achievement (MESA)

The goal of MESA is to increase the number of historically underrepresented community college students (including African American, Native American, Hispanic/Latinx, Pacific Islander and women) who are interested in pursuing a STEM bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, we aim to diversify the STEM workforce by addressing challenges students like you face in education and career development.

MESA

Resources for DACA and Undocumented Students

We are determined in advancing the academic success and holistic thriving of undocumented, Deferred action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and mixed-status families' students. We invite you to explore the support and resources available to you as a future and current student.

Undocu Resources

TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)

TRIO SSS students find that the extra support they receive helps them achieve success not only here at CBC, but also in their four-year graduation goals and careers beyond college.

TRIO SSS

Upward Bound

Upward Bound students participate in both summer and school-year programs and, following high school graduation, are encouraged to enroll in the BRIDGE program—an intensive mentoring opportunity designed to guide students like you through your first summer quarter of college coursework.

Upward Bound

Well-Being Resources

We know that sometimes life makes it difficult to concentrate in class which can keep you from being academically successful. These things aren’t your fault! CBC, and our surrounding communities, offer students valuable resources to support you through hard times and support your well-being. We encourage you to take advantage of these resources—it’s what they’re here for!

Well-Being Resources

Workforce Education Center (WEC)

You can gain access to five federally-funded grant programs that aim to help students like you successfully achieve your workforce education goals. Whether it is financial assistance, help with academic planning, access to computers or even learning about what jobs are available to you, WEC is here to support you!

WEC

 

La CASA Kitchen

La CASA’s Kitchen is the first communal kitchen facility available to students and employees at Columbia Basin College (CBC). The kitchen is located within the Pasco campus T-Building, Room T408. La CASA’s Kitchen will provide equitable and culturally sustaining practices aimed at student success.

The Kitchen will be open to all CBC students and employees to utilize during La CASA’s Hours of Operation. By using the kitchen, you agree to the rules and procedures of the kitchen.

Please refer to La CASA's Kitchen Manual for more information regarding La CASA's kitchen use, rules, and procedures.

La CASA Kitchen Manual - English

La CASA Kitchen Manual - Spanish

General Use

Students may use the following on-the-counter and low-risk appliances for individual cooking needs:
  • Sinks
  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Toaster
  • Keurig
  • Ice Machine

  • Disposable plates, bowls, cutlery

Students are responsible for cleaning up after themselves and each appliance they use. Cleaning materials will be readily available to students.

Reservations

La CASA’s Kitchen may be reserved for cooking demonstrations and meals by employees who have completed the required training. The employee who creates the reservation will be present, oversee the cooking process, and understand and ensure safety and cleaning regulations are followed during kitchen use.

Reservation requests should be made at least two (2) weeks in advance of the reservation date. Fill out the form below to put in a request to reserve the kitchen.

Kitchen Reservation Request Form

Confirmation of training need to be attached to the reservation along with waivers for students who will be accessing the kitchen.

La CASA Kitchen Waiver - English

La CASA Kitchen Waiver - Spanish

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reserve the kitchen?

1. You must be a CBC employee to reserve the kitchen.
2. Contact CBC's Occupational Safety and Health Specialist 2 to receive and complete La CASA Kitchen Training modules.
3. Fill out the La CASA Kitchen Reservation Request Form at least two (2) week prior to your proposed event date.
4. If students will be participating in the kitchen, they must complete the La CASA Kitchen Waiver & Release of Liability Form. These forms will be uploaded in the Kitchen Reservation Request Form.

Can students reserve the kitchen?

No. Students cannot directly make a reservation, however, if there is interest in creating a shared meal, students must connect with a trained CBC employee to make the reservation. Steps to reserve the kitchen can be found in the question above.

If the kitchen is reserved, can I still enter to grab cutlery (spoon/knife/fork), tableware (plate/bowl), or heat up my food?

No. If the kitchen is reserved, only the people associated with the reservation may enter/utilize the kitchen throughout the reservation.

If the refridgerator is reservered, am I able to store food in there?

No. If the refridgerator is reserved, only the people associated with the reservation may utilize the refridgerator throughout the reservation. However, the rest of the kitchen will still be available for use.

I want to reserve the kitchen after La CASA's office hours (5:30 PM Monday - Thursday and 12 PM Friday), am I able to do that?

Depending on the availability of La CASA's full-time staff. Please connect with our staff directly about this request.

Am I able to reserve the kitchen for student club use?

Yes, a trained CBC employee may make this reservation. Steps to reserve the kitchen can be found in question one (1).

Are community members able to reserve the kitchen?

No. La CASA's Kitchen can only be reserved by CBC employees.

I want to reserve the kitchen for an event next week. Is it too late to reserve the kitchen?

Per La CASA's Kitchen reservation policy, we require a mininum of two (2) weeks notice and a kitchen reservation request form for La CASA's kitchen to be reserved. In this case, the reservation request would be denied.

 

La PLATICA LOGO

La Plática is La CASA's newsletter and its aims is to provide useful, clear, and accessible information to support student development at Columbia Basin College (CBC). Here, you'll find resources, opportunities, and news that can make a difference in your academic journey. 

Our goal is to help you stay connected with your community and make the most of what’s available to you here at CBC!

Past Issues

La Plática E-Newsletter - August 2026 - Issue 12
La Plática E-Newsletter - July 2026 - Issue 11
La Plática E-Newsletter - June 2026 - Issue 10
La Plática E-Newsletter - May 2026 - Issue 9
La Platica E-Newsletter - April 2026 - Issue 8
La Plática E-Newsletter - March 2026 - Issue 7
La Plática E-Newsletter - February 2026 - Issue 6
La Plática E-Newsletter - January 2026 - Issue 5
La Plática E-Newsletter - December 2025 - Issue 4
La Plática E-Newsletter - November 2025 - Issue 3
La Plática E-Newsletter - October 2025 - Issue 2

La Plática E-Newsletter - September 2025 - Issue 1

Subscribe to La Plática

Annual Events

January

Martin Luther King Jr. - Bell Ringing and Spirit Award Ceremony

About: Join us in celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Annual Bell Ringing Ceremony. This event will feature the ringing of the bells, recognition of the previous Spirit Award Recipient, followed by a fellowship and reception.

The MLK Jr. Bell Ringing and Spirit Award Ceremony is coordinated by African American Community Cultural & Educational Society (AACCES), Columbia Basin College (CBC), Heritage University, Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Program, and Tri-Cities Diveristy and Inclusion Council (TCDIC).

February

Black History Month

About: February is celebrated as Black History Month (BHM) throughout the United States. To join in on the recognition, La CASA and other departments across campus celebrate the month through a compilation of events throughout the campus.

March

Women's History Month

About: March is designated as Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. It highlights their pivotal roles in shaping society and encourages reflection on the ongoing pursuit of gender equality. La CASA hosts events every April to celebrate Women's History Month.

April

Autism Acceptance Month

About: April is recognized as Autism Acceptance Month, providing opportunities to promote understanding and acceptance of people with Autism. Every year, La CASA collaborates with Disability Support Services to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month.

May

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month

About: Across the United States, May is celebrated as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. La CASA and other departments across campus celebrate the month through a compilation of events throughout the campus.

September

Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Week

About: La CASA, along with other departments across campus, celebrate HSI Week during the first week of classes! HSI Week, created by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), coincides with the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. It’s celebrated nationwide each September to honor the impact these institutions have in creating opportunities, closing educational gaps, and empowering Hispanic students. It also serves as a reminder to celebrate the communities of students that make up our college campuses.

October

Indigenous People's Day

About: Indigenous People's Day is celebrated on the second Monday of October. This day serves to reclaim history, recognizing the resilience, traditions, and Indigenous communities' deep connections to the land long before colonization. La CASA hosts an event every year to celebrate Indigenous People's Day.

November

Native American Heritage Month

About: November is celebrated as Native American Heritage Month across the United States. Departments all across CBC hosts events to join in on the celebration.

First-Generation College Celebration

About: First-Gen Day is celebrated on November 8th across the United States to align with the anniversary of the Higher Education Act (“HEA”) of 1965. At CBC, First-Gen Day is celebrated during the beginning of November with departments such as TRiO, CAMP, MESA, and La CASA.

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Students walking around CBC's Pasco campus