ATHENS, Ohio -- For most, Mexico City is a sun-soaked spring break or a lush postcard that innocently fades from memory. But for Maria Hinojosa, Mexico City is home and, no matter where life takes her, she remains committed to her Latin roots and community.

Hinojosa, celebrated Latina journalist and news anchor, will be the keynote speaker on Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the Baker University Center Ballroom. Her presentation, titled "The U.S. Mambo: One Step Forward, Two Steps Back -- the State of Latinos in America," will explore the urban culture of Latin Americans.

The lecture will stand as the final event commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month planned by Ohio University's Office of Multicultural Programs. Other events taking place this month included a barbeque, a dance workshop and an assortment of lectures focusing on the heritage and hardships facing Latin Americans.

Hinojosa has a rich background in the Latino community. She hosts the National Public Radio show "Latino USA" and is a New York-based urban affairs correspondent for CNN. Her past projects include stories concerning children and guns, personal accounts from New York gang members, jail time being common to men of all races and a memoir about raising a Latino child in a multicultural society.

"Her issues relate to Latinos, women, the poor," said Mosadi Rhodes, assistant director in the Office of Multicultural Programs. "Her range of what she reports is so wide that it can engage a whole audience."

Ohio University also brought Hinojosa here because of her affiliation with journalism, Rhodes said.

There will be a meet and greet in the 1954 Lounge, Baker University Center at 6 p.m.