By Ashley Ragone
Features Editor
When five sophomores of the College noticed a considerable lack of Guatemalan representation on campus, they passionately built the Guatemalan Student Association, or GUASA. Almost two years later, they have built connections with the Latin American organizations on campus, and are working on growing their presence within the wider Trenton community.
GUASA, which became a Recognized Student Organization in February 2024, has since been providing cultural tradition and education for Latin American students, as well as those just wanting to learn more about the culture.
“We want students to have fun through our events…GUASA’s founders also want to be the bridge for the College and the Trenton community, because of its close proximity to TCNJ and because of the heavy influence that Guatemalan culture has on Trenton,” said Elizabeth Menchu, a senior speech-language pathology and audiology major, as well as GUASA’s president.
The organization aims to grow connections, both externally and within the various cultural organizations at the College, promoting diversity and representation. GUASA most recently has worked with the Latin American Student Alliance at the College for Hispanic Heritage Month, specifically in planning the Oct. 15 Calle 12 Parade.
The parade, which highlighted Latin American achievement from the 12 clubs within LASA, included dancing, food and various games. GUASA specifically contributed weaving boards and garnachas street food. The RSO also helped in planning the Dia de los Muertos celebration on Oct. 30.
“Apart from collaborating with other Latin organizations, we also collaborate with other cultural organizations to show the beautiful intersection of cultures across countries,” Menchu said.
The Dia de los Muertos event included face painting, live performance and frame decoration for an ofrenda.
However, GUASA is not exclusive to those of Guatemalan or Latin American descent. In fact, not all of the founders were Guatemalan themselves, but all shared a respect and love for the culture.
“Seeing the lack of representation in Guatemalan culture on campus impacted us when we were surrounded by it at home,” Menchu said. Founding the organization meant “[creating] another home on campus for students who identified as Guatemalan, and might’ve felt the same underrepresentation, and for students who wanted to learn about the culture all together.”
Sophomore graphic design major Zahara Anglin, who serves on the executive board of GUASA, has enjoyed what she has been able to learn through the organization.
“I’m not of Latin or Hispanic descent at all…I’ve learned so much about the culture. As the graphic design chair, I came into my position hoping to not only sharpen my skills as a designer but to also involve myself in a culture I wouldn’t have the opportunity to otherwise,” Anglin said.
GUASA represents Guatemalan pride and cultural diversity, working alongside the 11 other Latin American student groups on campus. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Menchu)
GUASA prides itself on its general body meetings as well, connecting the student body with various cultural traditions and holidays.
“With each meeting we usually include a craft and presentation connected to the theme,” Anglin said.
Most recently, GUASA explored Mercado de Chichicastenango, the name of a large market in Guatemala with vibrant products that attract tourists and provide a livelihood for indigenous artisans. The meeting included colorful textiles, various foods and basket weaving to immerse members into the craft further, according to Anglin.
Mercado de Chichicastenango introduced GUASA members to basket weaving, one of the artisan crafts featured in the Guatemalan market. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Menchu)
GUASA members hope to connect students with Guatemalan culture, using both large-scale events and more intimate bi-weekly meetings as chances to educate.
“We also hope to clear the negative stereotypes that Trenton has, as we know that it holds artists and beautiful culture that also represents Guatemala but also the general Latino community,” said Menchu.
GUASA’s future programming includes its next upcoming meetings, with “Buscando el Quetzal” and a Pumpkin Patch event on Nov. 6 and 11, respectively, as well as further collaborations with LASA. GUASA can be found through their Instagram @tcnjguasa.
Menchu hopes to see GUASA provide a home to students and community members alike, no matter their background or status.
“Our goal is to create a supportive environment where students and those interested in the culture can connect, learn and grow together,” Menchu said.
