Celebrated from September 15 - October 15, Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month recognizes the traditions, contributions, and cultural diversity of Hispanic Americans whose heritage is rooted in Spain and 19 countries and territories. In honor of this observation, we asked Andrea Galicia to reflect on her hispanic heritage and how it has impacted her personal and professional life.
1. What is your role and how long have you worked at the University?
I’ve been with the University since 2014 and have served in many roles in hospitality. I’ve had every role from host, server, bartender, dining room attendant, banquet server, and now currently a food and beverage manager.
2. Please share a bit about your family’s roots (where are you from, how did you grow up, etc.) and what your heritage means to you personally.
My mom was born and raised in the United States and my dad is from Mexico. I grew up in South Bend and have been here my entire life. My heritage is very important to me- I was raised by very hard working people and I carry that pride in all my work and in everything I do.
3. What is a favorite cultural tradition, value, or piece of advice from your upbringing that you still carry every day?
“Creer es poder” which means “If you can believe it, you can achieve it.” Goals for me become limitless because as long as I believe in myself, I know I can do anything.
4. Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the massive contributions of the community. Is there a specific historical figure, mentor, or family member from your background who inspired your path?
My grandfather is the most influential person in my life. He grew up very poor in Mexico and began working at the age of 5 to help his mom put food on the table for his siblings. He truly made a way when there was no path for him. I am a product of all that he has accomplished because without him, we would have never been here. He’s so proud of me.
5. What originally sparked your passion to pursue your field of work? What influence did your heritage have on your career path?
My first restaurant job was in 2014 at Legends of Notre Dame and I haven't left the University since. I had no idea how a restaurant ran or what volume was, but I learned and adapted as I went. The funny story is my grandpa worked on campus in 1968 at the Huddle, so maybe he had something to do with me coming to campus. I think about him and channel his hard work every day.
6. What does it mean to you to serve the University’s students, faculty, staff, and guests while representing your culture within the department?
I think representation matters so much. We fortunately work for a University that prides themselves on reaching the masses and has students, faculty, and staff from all over the world. When students come to apply for a job at Rohr’s— whether they’re Latino/Hispanic or not— I think it becomes a safe space to see someone brown like me in a higher position and hopefully inspires them to do the same.
7. How do you like to spend your time when you are not at work?
I spend a lot of time with my pride and joy, my son Draven. We go on adventures together all of the time. I also spend a lot of time reading, going to the gym, socializing (I love to yap), and trying new restaurants because I love to be inspired by food and service.
8. What is your favorite part about working at the University?
My favorite part of working at the University is all of the resources Notre Dame has to offer. They give you a list of summer camps for your kids, networking opportunities, passes to the dining halls... the list goes on and on. They just take care of you!
9. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, what are you most proud of about your heritage?
The resiliency and grace we carry no matter what. I’m proud everyday to be Mexican. I’m actually not fluent in Spanish (spoiler alert) but that doesn’t change the love I have for where I came from and how it still leads and inspires me.