As the academic year comes to a close, many clubs and organizations here at Stockton are celebrating accomplishments and anniversaries. The Mexican Student Association (MEXSA) celebrated their 3rd year as an established student organization on April 8: bringing music, awards, and joy to Stockton’s Galloway campus in the Event Room.

The event was open to all students, allowing both regular attendees and those new to the club to join them in the festivities. Classic bachata tunes from many Latino artists beat through the room and brought a great many guests to the dance floor.

The name “Bautizo” was selected after the Mexican tradition of presenting a baby as a new member of the family and baptizing them, followed by a joyous celebration with food, music, and handmade crafts. The tradition is centered around family and faith. MEXSA’s Bautizo mimics the tradition by presenting the club and celebrating another year of progress.

The buffet included many traditional Mexican foods like black beans, rice, mole, and tacos. For dessert, there were sugar-coated churros and a chocolate fountain to dip red, ripe strawberries into. Mocktails and sodas were offered as beverages. There was also a photo booth with props and an inflatable bull-riding game where any willing guest could attempt to ride a mechanical bull and try not to get thrown off.

The members kicked off the event by introducing their current E-Board members through pre-selected songs and fun entrance dances, followed by the newly-elected 2026-27 board members.

Awards were presented to clubs and members who especially made an impact on their progress for the year. They named four student organizations as their ‘Padrinos’ (Godparents), thanking them for their help, support, and partnership: First Ospreys, the Peruvian Student Association, Los Latinos Unidos, and the United Latinos Association. Lambda Theta Alpha Sorority, Inc. was given the “Most Supportive Ally” Award. Parth Thakkar received a special thank you with the “Most Supportive Academic Advisor” Award.

Parth Thakkar was very happy with the event’s turnout, believing that Galloway’s location and larger venue offered an advantage compared to the Atlantic City celebration the previous year. “[The event] was really big last year, so there wasn’t enough space. We brought it to Galloway campus, and the entire Event Room was taken.”

He commended the organization for their excellent planning for the year: “MEXSA’s been great this year; they’re one of the few groups that I advise that had all of [their events] planned since August. They put a lot of thought into everything.” He also added, “They do very unique events over the year; they do themed meetings as well. There’s a lot of education, but a lot of fun involved in everything they do. A great organization.”

President Joe Bertolino also appeared at the event and gave a short speech to commemorate the event and congratulate MEXSA on their accomplishments the past three years. “Thank you very much for all you do for the community,” he said. “We’re really proud of you, and we’re here to support you. It’s hard to believe there’s only a few weeks left of the academic year. […] The organization represents, not only what it means to have spirit, but also what it means to be a proud Osprey.” To the graduating seniors in the room, he said, “I look forward to seeing you in a couple of weeks at Boardwalk Hall, and I’m looking forward to handing you your degree.”

Chrystal Mendoza, Outgoing President of MEXSA and graduating senior in Business Administration, said, “We branched off as the first Mexican club in Stockton, followed by the Honduran Student Association (HONSA) and the Guatemalan Student Association (GUASA) [and many others]. We feel very happy to recognize our roots and show Stockton what Hispanic culture is really about.” At the time, the club had counted 110 guests attending the event, with more coming in. “We hope to keep having this event every single year!”

Edwin Ulises Feria-Serna, outgoing Event Coordinator of MEXSA who is also a graduating senior, has been a very active part of Stockton’s community for years. “Looking out at a crowd of nearly 200 people was an incredible feeling. After months of intense planning and a mountain of hard work, seeing the Bautizo reach this level of success was the ultimate reward,” he said, heartfelt.

“To me, MEXSA has always been about more than just events; it’s about creating a sense of belonging. Seeing everyone come together to rejoice with a mechanical bull, great food, and such amazing vibes made all the effort worth it. I feel a deep sense of pride knowing I helped grow MEXSA to what it is today. Beyond that, it’s been a privilege to play a role in building the foundation for other flourishing organizations like GUASA, La Trinidad, and more here at Stockton University. Watching this community expand from the ground up has been a highlight of my time here.”

He was also grateful for the president to have attended, adding, “It was also a special honor to have President Joe join us. Having his presence and support for the Hispanic community at Stockton meant so much to all of us.” Eddie is currently the President of the Pre-Med club, the Co-President of the Honors College, the Vice President of the Guatemalan Student Association, and the Public Relations Chair for Student Senate.

The final event of the year from MEXSA is “La Última Fiesta” (The Last Party) taking place on April 21 at 5:00 P.M. at Lakeside Lodge.