We're celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by getting to know LSC-University Park Chemistry Professor and first-generation college graduate Annette Flores.

1. What does National Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
I grew up as a first-generation American, and I feel that part of who we are is missing as Hispanic history was not taught in our education system. Hispanic Heritage Month provides a time in the year where we get to reflect on our heritage and take a moment to research and learn about our culture. 

I did not start paying attention to Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations until my first year in college. Now I feel it is essential to share my culture with my peers, and I use this time to show my daughter and sons pride in their Mexican roots.

2. Why is it important that we celebrate Hispanic culture?
Often Latinos are threatened by stereotypes imposed on them in society; celebrating the positive impact of Latinos allows us to change that narrative and show others to be proud of their cultural differences and contributions to their community.

3. Does your heritage allow you to bring a different perspective to your classes, campus activities or academic work? 
My family history in the U.S. begins with the Bracero Program of 1942. My grandfather worked as a bracero and was able to bring his family to continue working for American farmers. My uncle and father still work for the same family, ‘en el norte’ in Minnesota. Growing up as the daughter of migrant farmworkers working in the fields at a young age and attending different school systems molded me into who I am today. 

Success does not come easy. It takes hard work, dedication, and sacrifices to achieve personal and professional goals. I know our students embody these principles every day, and I hope I can contribute to their success and help them reach their own goals.

4. What challenges have you overcome as a Hispanic?
Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, I was surrounded by my culture and proud of my roots. Leaving the RGV to pursue higher education at Texas A&M and moving to Houston made me think twice about my successes and validation. 

I faced stereotyping and imposter syndrome. I was no longer around my peers, and finding a community was challenging. But I advocated for myself and found like-minded individuals who supported me to continue believing in myself and to grow as a professional in academia.

5. “Esperanza: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope” is this year’s HHM theme. What does this theme mean to you?
The more emphasis we place on our heritage and educate our communities about the impacts of Latinos, the more hope I have for my children and their future successes. I have hope that the youth in our community will embrace the cultural differences around them and learn to uplift each other.

6. What is your “six-word story” in relation to your Hispanic heritage?
“With migrant dreams and butterfly wings.” This is an ode to my mom, who gave us (her daughters) the courage to fly from home in hopes of achieving our dreams.