Candice Hughes-Bengochea left her hometown of Sangre Grande, Trinidad and Tobago in 2004 bound for the Pacific Northwest. Having received a joint scholarship between Pacific Lutheran University and her country’s government she was bent on making an impact on the small Lutheran campus that engulfed her upon arrival. While on campus, Candice made The Diversity Center a second home. She was determined to spread her Trinidadian culture to all on campus and rallied the “Trini Posse” to host many campus Carnivals during her time. Studying Abroad to Botswana Africa opened her eyes to many global issues as she graduated as valedictorian in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Geology. Candice made a vow to continue the PLU mission of service to any part of the world she would encounter. Candice is now the On-Site Coordinator for the PLU’s Trinidad and Tobago Program, hosting and coordinating all activities when students arrive in Trinidad. She states “This job is extremely important to me as ...
An exploration of Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability reflections from PLU Student Leaders, Advocates, and Activists. Spring 2021 we are asking contributors to reflect on anti-racism.