La Casita Turns 15: Quinceañera Stories

For Lizeth Ortega, Mara Criollo-Rivera, and Shakira Santos, La Casita became part of their journeys at different moments in their lives. Lizeth celebrated her quince in Lima, arriving at La Casita years later as an intern. Mara grew up in Syracuse participating in youth programs at La Casita, where she later celebrated her quince. Shakira was a third grader in Syracuse NY when La Casita first opened, and she participated in a contest where she and her classmates submitted ideas for the original logo. 

Today, each is building a remarkable path of her own as an advocate, educator, artist, and entrepreneur.

Their stories remind us that a quinceañera celebrates the beginning of a journey filled with dreams, memories, and possibilities. And sometimes, those dreams bring you back home to La Casita.

Marking its 15th anniversary in 2026, La Casita presents Quinceañera Dreams, a new exhibition and immersive experience into one of the most cherished traditions in Latino culture the quinceañera celebration. Through community-sourced photographs, video, oral histories, family memorabilia, stunning gowns, and multimedia installations, Quinceañera Dreams explores the history, beauty, and cultural significance of this beloved coming-of-age tradition that connects generations of women.

Opening night will include a live quinceañera celebration as a local Latino family shares their daughter’s special day in full traditional attire and ceremony, as well as guided tours of the exhibition, music, and authentic Cuban buffet.

Admission to the gallery is free and open to the public. La Casita is on the ground floor of the Lincoln Building at 109 Otisco St. in Syracuse.

To request accessibility accommodations, please email lacasita@syr.edu or call (315) 443-2151 by September 10.

Welcome Students!

Are you ready to make a lasting impact in the Syracuse community? We invite you to join our team this Fall! Whether you are passionate about youth education, community-based arts programming, music, dance, language arts, or STEAM, there’s a meaningful place for you at La Casita.

As a volunteer or intern at La Casita, you’ll work alongside a dynamic and diverse team committed to fostering creativity, education, and civic engagement. We have opportunities tailored to a wide range of interests and fields, including:

·       Communications 

·       Graphic Design

·       Civic Engagement

·       Information & Library Sciences

·       Nonprofit Management

·       Dual-Language Education 

·       Music & Arts Education

·       Performing Arts

…and much more!

Youth and adult programs run Monday through Friday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and teen programs on Saturdays, 10:00am to 2:00 p.m.

This is your chance to build valuable skills, expand your professional network, and generate a real, positive impact in the lives of others. Join us in supporting our community through innovative programs and meaningful engagement.

Ready to get started? Complete our Student Information Form today!

Questions? Call us at 315.443.2151 or email lacasita@syr.edu.

Together, let’s inspire, empower, and uplift our community. We can’t wait to welcome you to our familia!