El Centro Upcoming Events
Fall 2025 Events
August
Golden Welcome Week*
First-Floor Lobby | Aug. 25–28, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Kick off the semester with breakfast, community, and support! Meet staff, ask questions, and connect with peers during your first week at El Centro.
September – Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month
Machismo & Identity: Mental Wellness in the Latinx Community*
First-Floor lobby | Sept. 22, 3:00–4:30 p.m.
With Health Services, join a conversation on cultural factors, traditions, and healing practices that impact mental health and wellness.
El Mercadito – Community Market
First-Floor Lobby | Sept. 23, 2:00–5:30 p.m.
A community market featuring vendors, snacks, and cultural celebration.
La Taquiza
First-Floor Lobby | Sept. 24, 3:00–6:00 p.m.
Celebrate with tacos, dessert, music, and activities as part of Latinx Heritage Month.
Sin Vergüenza: Healing, Storytelling, & Empowerment Without Shame
First-Floor Lobby | Sept. 25, 3:00–5:00 p.m.
An affirming space to shed stigma and share stories through art, spoken word, and conversation. Open to students and the community.
Ritmos de Ayer y Hoy: A Journey Through Latin Music
First-Floor Lobby | Sept. 26, 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Experience the rich sounds of Latin music across generations.
Shred & Recycle Day
Parking Lot | Sept. 27, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
A free opportunity for community members to safely recycle documents and electronics. Sponsored by Rep. Andrade
October
FAFSA/RISE Act Workshop Part 1
Computer Lab | Oct. 4, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Get guided assistance completing your FAFSA/RISE Act application for 2026–2027.
Midterm Madness*
Third-Floor Lobby | Oct. 7, 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Join Esports by taking a midterm break with gaming fun—Mario Kart and more!
Queer Prom 2025*
Third-Floor Lobby | Oct. 10, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
An inclusive prom night celebration for LGBTQIA+ students and allies.
FAFSA/RISE Act Workshop Part 2
Computer Lab | Oct. 25, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Get guided assistance completing your FAFSA/RISE Act application for 2026–2027.
Día de los Muertos Showcase & Coco Viewing
First-Floor Lobby | Oct. 29, 3:00–6:00 p.m.
Enjoy altars, an art activity, and a showing of Disney’s Coco as we celebrate Día de los Muertos.
Monster Bash*
First-Floor Lobby | Oct. 30, 3:00–5:00 p.m.
A fun Halloween-themed event with activities for students.
November
Speed Networking with Alumni & Career Development*
Third-Floor Lobby | Nov. 4, 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Practice professional networking with alumni and industry guests.
Movie Trivia*
First-Floor Lobby | Nov. 12, 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Test your knowledge and win prizes in a movie-themed trivia competition.
Orgullo y Memoria
Third-Floor Lobby | Nov. 18, 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Dr. Rocha’s presentation on Alzheimer’s disease and resources for students and the community.
Pop-Up Food Pantry*
First-Floor Lobby | Nov. 20, 2:30–4:30 p.m.
The NEIU Student Pantry brings free food resources directly to NEIU students.
December
Finals Stress-Free Zone: Cookie Decoration*
First-Floor Lobby | Dec. 1, 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Take a break from finals with cookies, relaxation, and support.
Holiday Traditions: Las Posadas
First-Floor Lobby | Dec. 3, 5:00–6:30 p.m.
Celebrate the holiday season with food, music, piñatas, and games in this cultural tradition.
Ongoing Weekly Events
- Meditation Monday – Community Room, 1:15 p.m.*
- Recreational Tuesday – Community Room, Noon–1:00 p.m. (starting Sept. 9)*
- Walking Wednesday – Indoors/Outside, 1:15 pm*
* Only for students.