Imagery of Regent people and campus

Director of CLL

Marcela Chavan-Matviuk, Ph.D.Marcela Chavan-Matviuk, Ph.D. | marcmat@regent.edu | 757.352.4760

Dr. Chaván-Matviuk serves as the director for the Center for Latino Leadership within the Office of Academic Affairs at Regent University. She has extensive experience in a variety of fields and settings including higher education, ethics, entrepreneurship, mass media, and community and faith-based organizations. She possesses a rich international experience leading nontraditional educational projects and is passionate about cultures and the success of Latino students.

Chaván-Matviuk has a Ph.D. in Intercultural and International Communication, and a master’s degree in both counseling and social communication.

Her topics of research include the testimonial communication, the impact of leadership training centered on values and the experience of Latino students in Christian higher education. Chaván-Matviuk is actively involved in the community as chair of the education committee of the Hampton Roads Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, founder and outreach director of Hispanic Leadership Forum and Chair of the LALP scholarship program. She emigrated to the USA in 1997 with her husband Dr. Sergio Matviuk and lives in Virginia Beach, Va.

 

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QUICK FACTS

 

 

Hispanics are a vibrant, fun-loving group of people who like to socialize. They have a deep sense of involvement in their culture and family traditions.

Language-Spanish is the world's third most spoken language, after Mandarin, Chinese, and English. At the end of the 19th Century, 60 million people spoke Spanish. Today, almost 500 million people worldwide speak Spanish. It is the second most used language in international communication, and an official language of the United Nations and its organizations.

Family Unity-All members in the family realize the importance of working hard and helping family members in times of need.

Mannerisms-Hispanics are very affectionate people. A light kiss on the cheek and hug are common greetings, especially, amongst family and friends. When engaging in a conversation, they usually talk fast, loud and use body language to express their points.

Religion-plays a significant role in the Hispanic culture, more than 90% of being Roman Catholic.

Dietary Habits-Coffee is a main staple amongst the Hispanic culture. It is the "go to" beverage that is accompanied before or after meals.

Celebrations-Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, and Three King's Day are some of the commonly known festivals that are celebrated throughout the Hispanic culture. However, dance and music are an important part of this vibrant culture. Hispanics like to get together to dance and celebrate life.

Hispanic culture continues to have a global influence on architecture, art, and literature.

Source:  Don Quijote.org