#  Mexico Studies Program Welcome Reception at DRCLAS Strengthens Bonds Among Mexican Scholars and Students  

 





November 14, 2024

 

 

At the start of the academic year, DRCLAS proudly hosted the **"Mexico Welcome Reception,"** bringing together Harvard's vibrant Mexican community along with participants from the greater Boston area.

The event welcomed a distinguished group of academics, students, faculty, and university leaders from Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, Berklee College of Music, University of Massachusetts Boston, and Tufts University. It was inspiring to witness so many individuals united by their commitment to strengthening academic and cultural ties with Mexico.

   ![Event photo](/sites/g/files/omnuum12451/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2024-11/DSC00862%20%281%29-min.JPG?itok=uH7w1cEN) 

 

The primary goal of this reception was to reinforce connections between the academic community and Mexico, providing a vital platform to kick off the academic year, enhance strategic partnerships, and foster new collaborations in key areas shaping Mexico's future.

Opening remarks were given by Diane E. Davis, Professor at Harvard Graduate School of Design, and Gabriela Soto Laveaga, Professor in Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences. As co-chairs of the Mexico Studies Committee, they emphasized the value of spaces like this in creating academic and research opportunities between Harvard and Mexico.

   ![Event photo](/sites/g/files/omnuum12451/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2024-11/10.JPG?itok=DnL89c2T) 

 

> Reflecting on the event, Prof. **Gabriela Soto Laveaga** noted, *“It was wonderful to see such a diverse group of people interested in Mexico gathered in one place. There were researchers, students, and staff, of course, but also community members. That rich mix of interests and people made it a truly special event. I’m looking forward to more!”*

The reception also provided a meaningful networking environment where attendees could connect, engage, and explore new collaborative opportunities.

> *“I truly enjoyed the welcoming reception—it was a great chance to connect with students, professors, and fellows interested in Mexico and to learn about various projects related to my home country. This event highlighted the importance of Mexico within Harvard's vast institution,”* shared **Farid Hannan**, MPA in International Development at the Harvard Kenedy School.

   ![Event photo](/sites/g/files/omnuum12451/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2024-11/4.JPG?itok=cN4-PM8-) 

 

> **Prof. Diane Davis** highlighted the community's impact, saying, *“The energy and enthusiasm for creating a community of scholars focused on Mexico was wonderful to behold. It is always a challenge to cross boundaries across departments and divisions at Harvard and beyond, but it is clear that aficionados of Mexico are not daunted by the task. I look forward to further joint conversations and events to keep us collectively engaged.”*

This event not only marked the beginning of a new academic cycle but also reaffirmed a shared commitment to Mexico's future through research, collaboration, and education. Together, we are transforming conversations into opportunities and making the extraordinary a reality.

   ![Event photo](/sites/g/files/omnuum12451/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2024-11/6.JPG?itok=uqUXn_z-) 

 



 

 

 



 

 See also:- [ Cambridge ](/locations/cambridge-office)
- [ Mexico ](/locations/mexico)
- [ Mexico ](/programs-initiatives/mexico)
 
 

 Share on:- [     Facebook ](#)
- [     Twitter ](#)
- [     Linkedin ](#)