The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education - Spring 2021 by Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities

OF HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 1 | SPRING 2021

HACU celebrates milestone year and salutes Antonio R. Flores

Let your dreams take flight. Southwest Airlines®, in conjunction with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, has opened applications for the iLánzate!/Take Off! Travel Award where Latino college students (undergraduate and graduate) share their personal stories to reach academic success in higher education. If you or someone you know is currently enrolled in a two- or four-year university, maintains at least a 2.5 GPA, and is in good standing, you may be eligible. Visit www.hacu.net for more details and give flight to your success! Deadline to apply is April 30. Tell us your story!

TABLEOFCONTENTS MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

OF HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 1 | SPRING 2021 The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education is published quarterly by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, 8415 Datapoint Drive, Suite 400, San Antonio, Texas 78229.

HACU NEWS 3

The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education reserves the right to edit all materials submitted for publication. We are not responsible for returning any unsolicited materials such as photos, brochures, etc. We also reserve the right to refuse publication of any unsolicited material.

CAPITOL HILL NEWS

Publisher Antonio R. Flores, Ph.D. HACU President and CEO

MEMBER NEWS

Interim Senior Vice President for Programs and Operations Alicia Martinez

News and photos courtesy of HACU-Member Institutions

Editor Norma Jean Revilla-García njgarcia@hacu.net Assistant editor/writer Lupe Flores news@hacu.net

26TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CAPITOL FORUM

HACU CELEBRATES MILESTONE YEAR AND SALUTES ANTONIO R. FLORES

FROM HSIs TO LEADING IN OUR NATION'S CAPITOL

STUDENT NEWS

Chris de Hoyos chris.dehoyos@hacu.net

HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES GOVERNING BOARD 2020-21 Monte E. Pérez, Chair President Los Angeles Mission College Sylmar, Calif.

Olga Hugelmeyer Superintendent of Schools Elizabeth Public Schools Elizabeth, N.J.

Sue Henderson, Vice-Chair President New Jersey City University Jersey City, N.J.

Joe Mella Finance Division Goldman Sachs New York, N.Y.

Margaret Venable, Treasurer President Dalton State College Dalton, Ga.

Juan S. Muñoz Chancellor University of California, Merced Merced, Calif.

Mike Flores, Secretary Chancellor Alamo Colleges District San Antonio, Texas

David Méndez Pagán Rector Universidad Ana G. Méndez, Recinto de Gurabo Gurabo, Puerto Rico

Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Past Chair Greg Peterson Chancellor President The City University of New York Chandler-Gilbert Community New York, N.Y. College Chandler, Ariz. Michael D. Amiridis Chancellor Garnett S. Stokes University of Illinois at Chicago President Chicago, Ill. The University of New Mexico Adela de la Torre Albuquerque, N.M. President San Diego State University Andrew Sund San Diego, Calif. President Heritage University Howard Gillman Toppenish, Wash. Chancellor University of California, Irvine Federico Zaragoza Irvine, Calif. President College of Southern Nevada Reyes M. González Las Vegas, Nev. President St. Augustine College Ex-Officio: Chicago, Ill. Antonio R. Flores President and CEO Emma Grace Hernández Flores HACU President Universidad de Iberoamérica San José, Costa Rica

Subscription Rates: The subscription rate for nonmembers of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) is $35 for one year and $50 for two years. For members, the rate is $28 for one year and $40 for two years. Information and subscription available at www.hacu.net.

ABOUT HACU The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain and school districts throughout the U.S. The mission of HACU is to champion hispanic success in higher education. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Association’s headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, California. Additional information is available at www.hacu.net.

CONTACTING HACU HACU National Headquarters 8415 Datapoint Drive, Suite 400 San Antonio, TX 78229 Tel: (210) 692-3805 Fax: (210) 692-0823 Website: www.hacu.net Email: hacu@hacu.net

HACU Washington D.C. Office One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 430 Washington, D.C. 20036 Tel: (202) 833-8361 Fax: (202) 261-5082 Email: dcgr@hacu.net

HACU National Internship Program One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 430 Washington, D.C. 20036 Tel: (202) 467-0893 Fax: (202) 496-9177 Email: hnip@hacu.net

HACU Western Regional Office 1107 9th Street, Suite 830 Sacramento, CA 95814 Tel: (916) 442-0392 Fax: (916) 446-4028 Email: wro@hacu.net

Log on to www.hacu.net for the latest up-to-date news and special events. SPRING 2021

MESSAGEFROMTHEPRESIDENT

e offer this spring edition of “The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education” as we reflect on the unimaginable challenges we faced this past year. During this period of time, our entire world struggled to contain a global pandemic, prevent an economic crash, and avert multiple attacks on democracy. Yet there is reason for hope. As we go to print, the American Rescue Plan has been enacted, which promises to improve American life in all respects, and we are optimistic that better times are ahead for all Americans as well as the world.

This year, we observe the 35th Anniversary since the Association was founded in San Antonio, Texas, and this issue features an article on page 12 regarding my time with HACU for the past 25 years. I am proud and humbled to remember where the Association was when I first joined and where we are now. Over those years, I have been privileged to work with countless individuals and organizations who have continuously proven their dedication to the cause of Hispanic higher education. I am truly honored to salute all the champions, past and present, who have joined us in elevating our member institutions and their exemplary efforts to “Champion Hispanic Success in Higher Education.” We will be holding the 26th Annual Capitol Forum soon after publication of this issue of The Voice (see more on page 11), again virtually to ensure the safety of our participants. We are eager to engage with a Congress that has shown an awareness of the need for greater support for education at all levels. We expect this year’s Forum to result in significant steps to ensure the future success of all students and hope you will join us in what has become a powerful national platform for winning public- and private-sector support for Hispanic-Serving Institutions. You can visit our website to sign up to virtually participate in the Capitol Forum, or visit our Advocacy Center for updates on our legislative activities. A story on the White House Fellowship program on page 14, spotlights three of their distinguished alumni: Fernando Torres-Gil, White House Fellows Class of 1978-79; David Iglesias, White House Fellows Class of 1994-95; and Margarita H. Colmenares, White House Fellows Class of 1991-92. All three attended an HSI during their academic career and demonstrate the heights that Hispanics can reach when given the tools to succeed. We hope you will share this program among your college community so that we can increase the participation rate of Hispanics. We are also excited to welcome new member institutions, as well as new presidents serving at current member institutions in this issue on page 7 in the Member News section. Their leadership is more valuable and necessary than ever, and once the pandemic is reduced to manageable levels, they will be key to reinvigorating and reinventing the college and university communities that have struggled in the past year. Our increased resilience and ability to thrive in the face of uncertainty should allow us to meet any new challenge with resolve and confidence. Thank you for your continued support of HACU. We are proud to count you among our champions of Hispanic success in higher education. Sincerely,

Antonio R. Flores President and CEO

HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

HACUNEWS HACU unveils new ProTalento job board platform

HACU statement on confirmation of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona “HACU congratulates Dr. Miguel Cardona on his confirmation as the next U.S. Secretary of Education,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “He is a strong advocate for underrepresented students, and his expertise in the complexities of the U.S. educational pipeline will be critical as we work with him to ensure Hispanic students have the resources needed to succeed from K-12 through higher education.”

HACU launched a new ProTalento job board webpage at jobs.hacu.net, with an upgraded design and features to help employers find diverse and qualified candidates seeking opportunities in higher education, and the federal, corporate and nonprofit sectors. The new job board will streamline the job posting process for employers and job search for candidates. ProTalento employer features include posting jobs manually, showcasing company brands with a logo, resume matching, a message center and email templates for easier communication with candidates. One feature will allow employers to obtain and display account stats on an easy-to-read dashboard. Job search candidates can automatically match jobs to their profile, upload resumes, and receive job and text message alerts. HACU institutional members are eligible to receive one free month of single job postings per membership year or a three-month discount on a yearly plan as part of their institutional membership dues. Members interested in receiving either member discount can contact memberinfo@hacu.net prior to signing up for an online account.

HACU awarded NSF STEM graduate education grant for Hispanic students HACU was awarded a $99,996 NSF INCLUDES Planning Grant: A Collaboration of Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Organizations to Strengthen Pathways to STEM Graduate Education for Latinx Students. The grant was funded by the NSF’s Inclusion across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science program. The project will include a leadership team of experts from HACU and two Hispanic-Serving Institutions, The University of California, Santa Barbara and The University of Arizona. The grant will be used to lead regional meetings across the country, and engage approximately 150 HSI leaders, practitioners, faculty, and national organizations in STEM to strengthen the educational and workforce pathways.

Cardona served two decades as a public-school educator, classroom teacher, school principal and a senior school district administrator. He brings substantial knowledge of historically underrepresented communities to this national leadership position.

HACU announces four new Corporate and Philanthropic Council members HACU welcomes four new members to its Corporate and Philanthropic Council: Anne L. Alonzo, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, Corteva Agriscience

Kayla Garcia, director of community affairs, Molson Coors Beverage

LaQuenta Jacobs, chief diversity officer, XPO Logistics, Inc.

Laura S. Nieto, director of community outreach, Southwest Airlines

The C&PC advises and supports HACU in engaging private-sector corporations to advance its mission of championing Hispanic success in higher education.

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HACUNEWS HACU welcomes new staff HACU is pleased to announce the addition of six new staff members who will contribute skills and talent that will enhance the Association’s efforts in supporting HSIs and member-institutions. The staff members will be located in the national headquarters in San Antonio, Texas or regional offices.

Emerging Leaders Summit virtual event co-hosted with Texas A&M University – San Antonio

Lena T. Rodriguez, Ph.D., is the new senior vice president for policy and government relations. She has extensive experience in higher education management and leadership, a working knowledge of policy advocacy and government affairs, and has worked in both the nonprofit and corporate sectors as well. (Washington, D.C.) Rebecca Perdomo, Ph.D., is the new director of policy analysis and information. She has done extensive research on higher education and is focusing on data gathering and analysis to support advocacy and public information work, drafting and editing key policy-related correspondence and briefings, and serving as internal consultant for HACU program and policy managers on data collection and reporting projects. (San Antonio, Texas) Ben Melano is the new executive director of legislative affairs, bringing extensive experience in advocacy for legislative and funding initiatives, particularly on Hispanic issues, as well as program management. (Washington, D.C.) Noé España is the new administrative/legislative assistant in HACU’s Western Regional Office. He previously interned with HACU and is familiar and experienced with state legislative advocacy. (Sacramento, Calif.) Chante Johnson was appointed program manager of internships. She will serve in all aspects of intern recruitment and placement for HACU's National Internship Program. (Washington, D.C) Melissa Chavez is the new senior office manager. She will also provide administrative support to HACU's Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo. (San Antonio, Texas)

HACU’s Emerging Leaders Summit, designed to prepare students for internships and career opportunities in various fields, was co-hosted with Texas A&M University–San Antonio. Students from 20 colleges and universities participated online with professionals and corporate representatives for a one-day event on Feb. 26. Representatives from the following corporations were present to meet with students during the Employer Showcase: Corteva Agriscience; GM Financial; Future Housing Leaders; Oracle; PetSmart; and XPO Logistics. More than 60 college students participated. Workshop topics focused on career preparation, interviewing skills, and workplace mentorship.

HACU, Google to partner on Latinx Student Leadership Summit

United Talent Agency to award two scholarships for 2021-22 academic year HACU has partnered with United Talent Agency for two scholarships of $2,500 each for students enrolled at a four-year HACU-member institution interested in careers on the business side of the entertainment industry. Open to all majors, with the following eligibility criteria: currently enrolled as a full-time junior or senior at a four-year HACU member institution; identify as Hispanic/Latinx; authorized to work in the U.S. Submit an online application and an essay of 500 words maximum by May 28, 2021, 5:00 p.m. CDT addressing the following: What inspires you to pursue a career in the entertainment industry? What part of the industry has been able to influence culture and drive change? Who is a career role model for you and why? 4

HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

HACU and Google will co-host a one-day Latinx Student Leadership Summit taking place virtually on April 24. The application period was announced earlier this year for undergraduate student leaders with a passion for technology (computer science, engineering or tech-related majors/minors) and interested in developing leadership skills. Applications submitted are under review. A total of 100 students will be selected. Google will confirm selections by March 22, 2021.

Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo application deadline extended

HACUNEWS HACU joined IFYC in A Talk with Dolores Huerta

HACU is accepting applications for the third cohort of its Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo through April 2, 2021, with selected participants notified on April 30, 2021. The Leadership program prepares senior higher education administrators working at colleges and universities nationwide for top leadership roles at Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), emerging HSIs and other institutions of higher learning. The one-year fellowship program includes an orientation, webinars and three seminars. Orientation will be held on Oct. 20, 2021, with the first seminar in Aurora, Colorado on Oct. 2021, in conjunction with HACU’s Annual Conference. The second seminar will be in Washington, D.C., in April 2022, at HACU’s Capitol Forum, and the third will be an international seminar to be held in the spring or summer of 2022. Information on the program, application process and frequently asked questions are available on the program website at https://www.hacu.net/leadershipacademy.

HSIs Week 2021 to be observed on Sept. 13-19, 2021 This year, Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week 2021 will be observed on Sept. 13-19, 2021, and takes place during National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated Sept. 15-Oct. 15. HSIs are recognized for their contributions to students and communities across the nation during Hispanic Heritage Month. HACU-member HSIs are encouraged to observe the week with campus activities to heighten awareness of the important role HSIs play in improving access to education and advancing equity for traditionally underserved students.

HACU joined 50 Latino organizations to cohost Official Latino Inaugural 2021: Inheritance, Resilience & Promise HACU joined with Latinos Unidos as a co-host of An American Tribute to Democracy: Inheritance, Resilience, and Promise, when the nation’s Hispanic leadership united virtually to honor Latino resiliency, democracy and promise in a historic web broadcast tribute. Viewers were able to stream the event on The Choice channel on Peacock, and on Telemundo’s and Univision’s digital and social platforms, as part of the official five-day slate of inaugural programming from the Biden-Harris Presidential Inauguration Committee. The hour-long special featured Latino contributions to society and stories that touched on the Latino American narrative in the United States, its history and challenges, and the promise for a better tomorrow. To view the encore restream, visit https://latinoinaugural.org.

HACU joined Interfaith Youth Core in A Talk with Dolores Huerta on Feb. 10, 2021, part of a webinar series hosted by HACU partner IFYC. IFYC is a national nonprofit that equips the next generation of citizens and professionals with the knowledge and skills needed for leadership in a religiously diverse world. HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores led the conversation. An iconic labor and civil rights activist, Dolores Huerta dedicated her life’s work to advocating for workers, immigrants, and marginalized communities in America. The webinar was a conversation with Huerta about how interfaith alliances shaped and supported her work, and how her own worldview formed the foundation of her trailblazing leadership.

HACU President and CEO’s virtual discussion with Solidaricracia HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores spoke at the virtual event “La Universidad como Agente Regresivo Social: Virtudes y Vicios,” part of the Solidaricracia Talk to Create speaker series, on Dec. 8, 2020. The presentation was held in Spanish and was moderated by Francisco Santa María, founder of Solidaricracia. The discussion focused on the effect higher education has on social advancement and solidarity.

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SPRING 2021

HACUNEWS Eligibility Designations and Applications for Waiving Eligibility Requirements The Department of Education Office of Postsecondary Education has announced the process for designation of eligible institutions and invites applications for waivers of eligibility requirements for fiscal year (FY) 2021. The deadline is April 5, 2021. For more information, visit federalregister.gov.

Interfaith Youth Core to award 10 scholarships HACU is partnering with Interfaith Youth Core to award 10 scholarships of $500 each. Students enrolled at HACU-member institutions can apply for the scholarships to be awarded for the 2021-2022 academic year. Online applications are accepted until May 28, 2021, 5:00 p.m. CDT. Students must meet the following eligibility criteria: undergraduate or graduate student enrolled full-time or part-time at a two-year or four-year HACU-member institution in the U.S. or Puerto Rico in any major; must be a sophomore, junior, or graduate student; U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Prior to applying for the scholarship, students must select one of the playlists within the “We are Each Other’s” curriculum and complete it. The first playlist Getting Started is ideal for those new to interfaith work as this track reviews introductory interfaith learning and gives a direct call to action. The second playlist Interfaith Leadership 101 focuses on the foundations of interfaith cooperation and leadership, exploring how you can develop the vision, knowledge base and skill set to be an interfaith leader. Visit hacu.net for more information.

Oracle to award two scholarships for 2021-22 academic year HACU has partnered with the Oracle Corporation to offer two scholarships of $2,150 each to be awarded for the 2021-2022 academic year. Students in any major can apply. Online applications will be accepted until May 28, 2021, 5:00 p.m. CDT. Students must meet the following eligibility criteria: full-time undergraduate student; enrolled at a two or four-year HACUmember institution within the U.S. or Puerto Rico; cumulative GPA of 3.0; U.S. citizen.

HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Applications for Southwest Airlines ¡Lánzate! Travel Awards now open HACU and Southwest Airlines have opened applications for the 17th Annual ¡Lánzate! / Take Off! Travel Program. Online applications will be accepted through April 30, 2021. Through this national initiative, HACU and Southwest Airlines will award roundtrip flights to undergraduate and graduate students across the country who travel at least 200 miles from home to pursue a higher education and meet the eligibility criteria, including the submission of a required essay. Selected students receive tickets for use to travel between home and college or university. “The ¡Lánzate! travel awards have provided many college students a way to visit their families when they may not have otherwise had the financial means to do so,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “This past year, the pandemic has caused a financial strain on many families, and we are grateful to Southwest Airlines for their ongoing support of college students.” For eligibility criteria and to apply, visit https://www.hacu.net/hacu/Lanzate.asp.

Passage of the National Museum of the American Latino Act (HR 2420) Congress has passed the National Museum of the American Latino Act (H.R. 2420) on Dec. 21, 2020, and is expected to be signed into law by President Biden. “HACU applauds the passage of the National Museum of the American Latino Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation to create a National Museum of the American Latino in the Smithsonian Institution,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “HACU thanks Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey and Senator John Cornyn of Texas for sponsoring the act and Congress for reaching an agreement that will recognize the incredible legacy of Latinos in the U.S. for generations to come.”

Assembly Member Eloise Gómez Reyes selected as first Latina Assembly Majority Leader in California Eloise Gómez Reyes is the first Latina elected as majority leader in the California State Assembly. She is the first Latina to open a law office in the Inland Empire, and is the first Latina to assume the position of majority leader in the California State Assembly. “HACU wholeheartedly applauds the selection of Assembly Member Reyes as the next assembly majority leader,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “She has long been a champion of the underserved and a strong advocate and voice on behalf of Latino success in higher education.”

HACUNEWS Bipartisan Dream Act of 2021 The Dream Act of 2021 has been reintroduced by Senators Durbin and Graham, allowing immigrant students without lawful status brought here as children and raised in the United States to earn permanent residence and eventually American citizenship. “The bill puts worthy and hard-working young people who attend college or join the military on the path to U.S. citizenship. We view this as a down payment on Comprehensive Immigration Reform and look forward to its expeditious passage in the 117th Congress,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. The Dream Act of 2021 would allow these young people to earn lawful permanent residence and subsequently American citizenship, if they: came to the U.S. as children and are without lawful status; graduate from high school or obtain a GED; pursue higher education, work lawfully for at least three years, or serve in the military; pass security and law enforcement background checks and pay a reasonable application fee; demonstrate proficiency in the English language and a knowledge of United States history; and have not committed a felony or other serious crimes and do not pose a threat to our country.

U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021 President Biden sent a comprehensive immigration reform bill, the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021, to Congress on the first day of his administration. HACU has been a longstanding champion for immigration reform, including the passage of the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, first introduced in 2001. “We are thrilled that the Administration has chosen a comprehensive approach that addresses the needs of entire families in obtaining access to a pathway to citizenship,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “HACU is committed to working with the administration and advocating on the hill for the passage of this long overdue legislation.”

HACU Statement on the January 6 U.S. Capitol attack HACU issued a statement following the assault on the U.S. Capitol that took place on Jan. 6, 2021, extending condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the despicable attack on the Capitol, particularly those of the police officer killed while defending the premises in one of the darkest days in American history. “HACU wholeheartedly condemns the events of January 6 and the reprehensible actions grounded in false claims that fueled the flames of racism and xenophobia that engulfed the nation’s Capital and threaten to spread across the country,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “I am confident that the true spirit of our nation will continue to prevail over the insurrection that occurred this week.”

Capitol Hill News The 116th Congress’ last act was passing the FY 2021 omnibus spending bill that included all 12 appropriations bills, coronavirus relief and authorizations. The 117th Congress started 2021 with a flurry of activities including the next COVID-19 relief bill and Cabinet nominations. FY 2021 Federal Budget and COVID-19 Relief Bill The FY 2021 omnibus spending bill was signed on Dec. 27, 2021. This package provided $1.4 trillion in FY 2021 appropriations and a $900 million COVID-19 relief deal. Below is a sampling of appropriations for HSIs in Fiscal Year 2021: • Department of Education – Title V, Part A: HSIs received a $5.6 million increase for Part A (undergraduate education) or a 3.7% increase for a total of $148.6 million. • Department of Education – Title V, Part B: HSIs received a $1.07 million or an increase of 7.2% for Part B for a total of $13.8 million (graduate education). • National Science Foundation – HSI Program: The agreement includes $46.5 million for the HSI program to build capacity at institutions of higher education that typically do not receive high levels of NSF funding. This is a minor increase of 3.2% from the FY 2020 allocation of $45 million. • USDA-Education Grants for HSIs – HSIs will receive $12.5 million in FY 2021, or a 10.4% increase compared to the FY 2020 allocation, which was $11.2 million. • Department of Commerce – National Telecommunications and Information Administration: $285 million was appropriated to establish an Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives at NTIA to support HSIs, HBCUS, TCUs, and other MSIs to expand broadband capacity and use at the institution and in the surrounding community, including by assisting students in affording broadband service. American Rescue Plan Act On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law. The bill allotted $1.9 trillion to provide fast and direct economic aid to Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as $39.6 billion appropriated to the existing Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. The bill allocates $36 billion to public and private nonprofit institutions available through Sept. 30, 2023. The Education Department is still currently distributing money from HEERF II, which was authorized by the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA). The current MSI Allocations tables are available at: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/heerfiimsi.html

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MEMBERNEWS Welcome New Members Hispanic-Serving Institutions North Park University (Ill.) Pillar College (N.J.) Texas Southmost College (Texas) Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Texas) University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth (Texas) Associate Member Institutions Capitol Technology University (Md.) Florida Southern College (Fla.) Linfield University (Ore.) Loras College (Iowa) Missouri Valley College (Mo.) New York Institute of Technology (N.Y.) Southwestern University (Texas) Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (Pa.) University of Maryland, Baltimore (Md.) Partner Institutions Mercy College of Ohio (Ohio) Southwest Tennessee Community College (Tenn.) University of Massachusetts Medical School (Mass.)

National HACU-member institutions receive new NASPA Virtual Innovation Awards: Six HACU-member institutions will receive a Virtual Innovation Award: Excellence in Delivering Virtual Student Services, a new award program funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and presented through the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. The awards result in a total of $255,000 to “ten institutions of higher education demonstrating exemplar academic, financial, and motivational support to students.” The six member institutions are: • California State University, Channel Islands • Houston Community College • Montgomery County Community College • Northern Arizona University • San Diego State University • The University of Arizona

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HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Eight member institutions receive $1 million grant from Bank of America Bank of America has partnered with eight HACU-member institutions to aid minority students in completing the education and training necessary to enter and succeed in the workforce. Each institution will receive a $1 million grant, part of a $25 million, nationwide initiative with institutions that serve predominately Black/ African American and Hispanic/Latino students, public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and public HispanicServing Institutions (HSIs). The Aspen Institute will receive funding to bring the participating higher education institutions together for technical, programmatic and best practices assistance. The following member institutions have been chosen to be part of the initiative: • Arizona State University • Dallas College • Florida International University • Harold Washington College, City Colleges of Chicago • Miami Dade College • Pima Community College • Riverside City College • University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras

Two HACU-member institutions awarded DOL grants The U.S. Department of Labor awarded $40 million through the Strengthening Community College Training Grants program to support community colleges in meeting labor market demand for a skilled workforce, with two grants going to HACU-member institutions: Los Angeles City College and City University of New York, Research Foundation. The grants also build the capacity of community colleges to address challenges associated with the pandemic, such as expanding online and technology-enabled learning. Grant recipients are individual community colleges or a consortium of community colleges undertaking capacity building and systems change at the institutional or state level to train a broad spectrum of workers, including dislocated workers, incumbent workers and new entrants to the workforce.

MEMBERNEWS Arizona Northern Arizona University appoints José Luis Cruz president José Luis Cruz, Ph.D., has been appointed as the 17th president of Northern Arizona University. Prior to his appointment, Cruz served as the executive vice chancellor and university provost at The City University of New York, after serving as the third president of Lehman College. He has also served as provost of California State University, Fullerton, as vice president of higher education policy and practice at The Education Trust in Washington, D.C., and as chief student affairs officer for the University of Puerto Rico system. Cruz earned a bachelor’s from the University of Puerto RicoMayagüez, as well as a master’s and doctorate from Georgia Institute of Technology.

California Cathy Sandeen named president of California State University, East Bay Cathy Sandeen, Ph.D., has been named president of California State University, East Bay, following President Leroy M. Morishita’s retirement. Sandeen previously served as chancellor of the University of Alaska Anchorage, as well as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Colleges and University of Wisconsin-Extension. Sandeen’s higher education experience includes service as the vice president, education attainment and innovation for the American Council on Education, and dean at the University of California, Los Angeles Extension. Sandeen earned a bachelor’s degree from Humboldt State University, a master’s from San Francisco State University, a master’s from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a doctorate from the University of Utah.

Mount Saint Mary’s University receives $15 million MacKenzie Scott grant Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, received a gift of $15 million from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. The funds will allow the university to create new academic programs that expand women’s leadership initiatives with a focus on social justice issues locally, nationally and globally; establish cuttingedge learning technologies and educational spaces; and invest in intensive experiential opportunities for students to enter the workforce as effective and inclusive leaders.

Mark Sanchez appointed president and superintendent of Southwestern College Mark Sanchez, Ed.D., has been appointed as Southwestern College’s superintendent and president. Previously, he was vice-president of student services and college centers at Cuesta College and has over 20 years of experience in community college leadership, teaching and instruction, and workforce development. Sanchez has a bachelor’s from Point Loma Nazarene University, and a master’s and a doctorate from California State University, Fresno.

Sacramento State’s tutoring program receives national recognition Sacramento State’s PAVE program, through which the university tutors and mentors younger students across the city, received the 2021 Program of the Year award from the National Tutoring Association. The honor was presented during a virtual conference on March 17. PAVE, which stands for Partnerships to Advance the Value of Education, pairs Sac State scholars with students and teachers from kindergarten through 12th grade. The program, which launched in 2019 and recently earned its accreditation, has operated virtually since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a switch to strictly online education.

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MEMBERNEWS Colorado Marielena DeSanctis named president of Community College of Denver

Texas Texas A&M-UTMB team identifies potential drug to treat SARS-CoV-2

Marielena DeSanctis, Ph.D., was appointed president of CCD, succeeding Everette Freeman, Ed.D., who retired after seven years of service. DeSanctis previously served as the provost and senior vice-president of academic affairs and student services at Broward College; state president of the Florida Association of School Administrators; chair of the statewide Council of Student Affairs, as well as the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine Board on Higher Education and the Workforce; and board member of the National Community College Hispanic Council.

A new study by a research team from Texas A&M University and The University of Texas Medical Branch demonstrates a federally approved heart medication has shown significant effectiveness in interfering with SARS-CoV-2 entry into the human cell host. The medication bepridil with the trade name Vascor is currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat the heart condition angina.

DeSanctis earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgia Institute of Technology, a master’s from Nova Southeastern University, and a doctorate from Florida Atlantic University.

New Jersey Eric Friedman appointed president of Bergen Community College Eric M. Friedman, Ph.D., has been appointed the eighth president of HACU-member institution Bergen Community College. Friedman takes over leadership of Bergen Community College after working for 13 years at Hudson County Community College, also a HACU-member institution, serving as executive vice president and provost/chief operating officer. He has taught at a number of public and private colleges, including Drew University, Passaic County Community College, New School University and The Art Institute of New York City. Friedman earned his bachelor’s from the University of Denver, a master’s from New York University, as well as a master’s and a doctorate from the New School for Social Research.

The project received seed funding in 2020 from Texas A&M’s X-Grants program, an initiative of the 10-year, $100 million President’s Excellence Fund and the Texas A&M Translational Investment Fund.

Lone Star College awarded funds to aid in pandemic recovery efforts

Lone Star College was awarded $112,500 by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to provide financial assistance to Texas workers in reskilling or upskilling to return to the workforce. The grant will be used to help LSC-North Harris students who have stopped attending college and have a desire to complete a workforce credential in a year or less. LSC was also granted $750,000 in the first round of awards under the Texas Reskilling Support Fund Grant Program in December 2020.

Request for student success articles

The focus of these articles should be on how grant funding has made a difference in programs offered for students on your campus. Approximately 500-word count. Please include byline. Example articles of HSI grants are those received from: • U.S. Department of Agriculture funding • U.S. Department of Education, Title III-Part F • U.S. Department of Education, Title V • National Science Foundation For articles, please include college/university logo and 2-3 high resolution photos (300 dpi). Articles selected for publication will be published in AP style. For samples of previous grant success stories, visit http://bit.ly/2020TitleVSuccess. The submission deadline for the Summer 2021 Issue is June 4.

HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

26th ANNUAL NATIONAL CAPITOL FORUM

ach year, HACU holds its Annual National Capitol Forum, an event that brings together higher education administrators, faculty and students to advocate for greater support in funding and legislation for Hispanic-Serving Institutions. This year’s Forum will be the 26th event and features sessions and speakers focused on ensuring that attendees have the most pertinent information needed to effectively interact with legislators and their staff. The Capitol Forum will be held virtually, as it was last year, to ensure the safety of participants. Yet the session slate will be as robust as previous years. This year, the Capitol Hill visits take place from noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 14, capping off three days of intensive programming to strengthen federal support for Hispanics in higher education. Two pre-forum sessions will be free on Monday and will focus on funding opportunities for HSIs. Pre-conference Session I: Federal Funding Opportunities for HSIs, features panelist Erika Camacho, Ph.D., program director, the National Science Foundation’s Improving Undergraduate STEM Education, Hispanic-Serving Institutions program. The moderator of the session will be Marla Franco, Ph.D., assistant vice provost of Hispanic-Serving Institution Initiatives, The University of Arizona. Pre-conference Session II: Federal Funding Opportunities for HSIs, will feature a panel with Adriana Cutler, program officer, Division of Preservation and Access, National Endowment for the Humanities; and Irma Lawrence, Ed.D, national program leader, Hispanic-Serving Institutions Education Grants Program, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture. The session will be moderated by Moises Almendariz, Hartnell College’s director of HSI Initiatives. Monday closes with a Advocacy 101 presentation by Erica Romero, HACU’s assistant vice president for state advocacy, who will present a second time on Tuesday, April 13. Tuesday will start with an Opening Plenary, “Higher Education Priorities for the 117th Congress,” featuring opening remarks by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, Ph.D., and Los Angeles Mission College president and HACU Governing Board chair Monte Pérez, Ph.D. The plenary will be moderated by Juan Sánchez Muñoz, Ph.D., University of California, Merced chancellor and member of HACU’s Governing Board. Participating as a panelist will be Terry Hartle, senior vice president, Government Relations and Public Affairs for the American Council on Education. Tuesday’s early afternoon session, “Impact of COVID-19 on Hispanic-Serving Institutions and the Congressional Response,” will be moderated by Sue Henderson, Ph.D., president of New Jersey City University and vice chair of HACU’s Governing Board. Panelists include Garnett Stokes, Ph.D., president of The University of New Mexico; Félix Matos Rodríguez, Ph.D., chancellor of The City University of New York; and Rebecca Stoltzfus, Ph.D., president of Goshen College (Stokes and Matos Rodríguez are both HACU Governing Board members). The late afternoon session, “Human and Capital Infrastructure Challenges and Opportunities for K-12 and Higher Education: Federal Investments and Shortcomings,” will feature panelists Ted Alejandre, San Bernardino County superintendent of schools; and Mike Flores, Ph.D., chancellor of Alamo Colleges District. HACU staff will conduct the presentation “Prepping for your Congressional Visit: HACU’s Asks,” with Alicia Diaz, executive director

of legislative affairs, Ben Melano, executive director of legislative affairs, Lena T. Rodriguez, Ph.D., senior vice president for policy and government relations and Erica Romero, assistant vice president for state advocacy. Staff will provide input on a number of legislative priorities, including equitable funding for HSIs, the HERE Act, capital financing and the Immigration Reform/Dream Act. The final session before the start of Capitol Hill visits on Wednesday will be a Congressional Hispanic-Serving Institutions Policy Update. Visit hacu.net for registration and ongoing speaker updates to the agenda.

Some of our presenters: Moderators: Juan Sánchez Muñoz, Ph.D. Chancellor University of California Sue Henderson, Ph.D. President New Jersey City University

Panelists: Terry Hartle Senior Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs American Council on Education Garnett Stokes, Ph.D. President The University of New Mexico Félix Matos Rodríguez, Ph.D. Chancellor The City University of New York Rebecca Stoltzfus, Ph.D. President Goshen College Ted Alejandre County Superintendent San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Mike Flores, Ph.D. Chancellor Alamo Colleges District

SPRING 2021

HACU celebrates milestone year and salutes Antonio R. Flores

or the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, 2021 marks a milestone of its founding in 1986 in San Antonio, Texas. In the past 35 years, HACU has grown from 18 charter members to more than 500 member institutions committed to the mission of championing Hispanic success in higher education. Impressively, for the past 25 years, HACU has had the leadership of Antonio R. Flores at the helm. When HACU was searching for its third president and CEO in 1995, Flores says he was drawn to the Association because it was positioned to make a huge impact on Hispanic higher education nationwide and for its membership. Since joining HACU on February 26, 1996, Flores has worked non-stop on developing and advancing policy and legislation that support Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Hispanic students across the nation. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Association quickly transitioned its operations and strengthened its advocacy efforts to ensure that HSIs continue to have a strong voice, especially during a moment in time when institutions need federal support and programs for students to thrive in a new environment. Last year, HACU held its Capitol Forum on Hispanic higher education and its 34th Annual Conference virtually for the first time. Its biggest student program, the HACU National Internship Program, worked with its partners to continue to offer college students internship opportunities, also in a virtual format. During his tenure, Flores has led HACU in increasing annual federal funding for HSIs, with more than $4 billion allocated to them over the years. Several federally funded programs have been created under the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Department of Education, among others. The Association nearly tripled its membership, expanded its representation internationally, and implemented and improved programs and partnerships to offer a variety of internship and scholarship opportunities under Flores’ leadership. The HACU National Internship Program has facilitated over 13,000 interns placements since its inception. One of its most recent programs was launched in 2019, the HACU Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo, a fellowship program designed to prepare the next generation of culturally diverse leaders for executive and senior level positions in higher education. “Tremendous progress has been made through the years to serve Hispanics in higher education but, as more Hispanic-Serving Institutions emerge, so too does the need to advocate for improved funding support for HSIs,” said Flores. HACU extends thanks to all for their support through the years and salutes Antonio R. Flores for his 25 years of service. 12

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HACU President and CEO Antonio Flores with 2019 HACU conference scholarship recipients

HELP SUPPORT OUR FUTURE

By making a contribution to the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) you make it possible for us to keep Championing Hispanic Success in Higher Education. Help support our future. La HACHE is the Spanish word for the letter H. La HACHE de HACU refers to: The “H” in the HACU logo, formed by a figure representing Hispanics standing with arms outstretched, reaching toward the future between two pillars symbolizing higher education; and the acronym for HACU’s “Hispanic Alliance to Champion Higher Education” (HACHE). Donate at www.hacu.net/donate.

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From HSIs to leading in our nation's capital he White House Fellowship, founded in 1965 by President Lyndon Johnson, is a prestigious program designed to build on the leadership skills of exceptional, civic-minded Americans who want to give back to their communities. Once selected for the fellowship, fellows spend a year working at the highest levels of government as special assistants to Cabinet officers and senior White House Staff. Once their fellowship year ends, fellows take their leadership skills, in-depth knowledge of policy-making, and an expanded network of peers and influential leaders, and return to their communities and career industries to forge new paths. We spoke recently to three White House Fellowship alumni, each of whom attended a HACU-member institution – Hartnell Community College, San Jose State University, Sacramento City College and The University of New Mexico – about their reflections on the fellowship and how it strengthened their commitment to leadership and public service. All three have recent immigrant roots.

Fernando Torres-Gil, White House Fellows Class of 1978-79, was a research project director and lecturer in gerontology at the University of Southern California prior to applying to the fellowship. During his fellowship, he served as special assistant to Secretary Joseph Califano, U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare. He subsequently stayed another year to serve as special assistant to Secretary Patricia Harris, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Originally from Salinas, Calif., TorresGil believes it is crucial to train and provide leadership opportunities to prepare Latino/as to run and lead this nation. “I believe strongly we must move beyond identity politics and political correctness and realize that in due time we will have demographic victory, but it will not translate to effective governance unless we prepare,” TorresGil says. “The White House Fellows program did that for me, and I believe strongly that Latino/as, especially the Mexican, Central American, Puerto Rican and Dominican groups, must have the elite leadership opportunity to insure we will be ready to oversee and lead a majority-minority nation.” Torres-Gil received the John W. Gardner Legacy of Leadership Award in 2013, which is the highest award presented by the White House Fellows Foundation and Association, given in recognition of proven leadership, dedicated public service and sustained support to the White House Fellows Program. Torres-Gil earned his associates in political science at Hartnell Community College; a bachelor’s in political science from San Jose State University; a master’s in social work followed by a doctorate in social policy, planning and research from the Heller Graduate School in social policy and management at Brandeis University. 14

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David Iglesias, White House Fellows Class of 1994-95, was a Navy JAG officer, assistant attorney general for the New Mexico Attorney General’s office and director of the City of Albuquerque’s office of civil rights prior to applying for the fellowship. During his fellowship year, Iglesias was a special assistant for the U.S. Secretary of Transportation Federico Peña, reporting directly to his chief of staff as well as the secretary. Born in Panama to an immigrant father and raised in New Mexico, Iglesias considers his year as a White House Fellow an experience that had a great impact on his life. The fellowship “allows you to give back a little to America and, hopefully, consider a career in public service,” Iglesias said. “It is a remarkable year, one that changes and transforms lives.” One of the many significant moments from his fellowship year was meeting with the presidents of Haiti and Mongolia in their capitols during official trips that are part of the fellowship program. During his career after his fellowship, Iglesias ran for attorney general, was appointed as the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico by President George W. Bush, worked for Booz Allen Hamilton on Southwestern border issues and returned to the Navy as a war crimes prosecutor. He retired from active duty as a Navy JAG captain and is currently an associate professor of politics and law, as well as director of the Wheaton Center for Faith, Politics and Economics. Iglesias received a bachelor’s from Wheaton College and received a juris doctorate from The University of New Mexico School of Law.

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Margarita H. Colmenares, White House Fellows Class of 1991-92, was an executive-on-loan to lead the STEM nonprofit Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers prior to her fellowship year, and had focused for over a decade on environmental-related work to minimize the impact of fossil fuels on the environment. During her fellowship, she served at the U.S. Department of Education, assigned as a special assistant to David T. Kearns, deputy secretary and former Xerox CEO. Originally from Sacramento, Calif., Colmenares is a daughter of immigrant parents. She is a first-generation community college student who graduated from Stanford University’s School of Engineering at a time when Hispanic women received less than 0.1% of engineering degrees. Her path to becoming an engineer has been profiled in a PBS series, and elementary school textbooks and assignments. During her fellowship year, the Los Angeles riots broke out following the Rodney King verdict. In response to a request for federal aid, Deputy Secretary Kearns was named co-chair of the Presidential Task Force on Los Angeles Recovery. This effort to provide quick and coordinated economic

relief became part of her portfolio and Colmenares witnessed firsthand how the federal government can cut red-tape and deliver inter-agency resources where they are most needed. Today, Colmenares serves as director of Outreach and Recruitment for the White House Fellows Association. She comments, “I often meet outstanding community and business leaders and wonder, “why didn’t you apply to become a White House Fellow,” and many times the answer is “I didn’t know about it.” For the past two years, she has been steadily working with a group of alumni volunteers to increase awareness and diversity, equity and inclusion so that “we increase the number of highly-qualified applicants from all walks of life.” Colmenares attended Sacramento City College, earning an associates in math and science, and Stanford University, earning a bachelor’s in civil engineering.

Applications for the fellowship open November 1 and close during the first week of January the following year. The fellowship begins in September for one academic year through August of the following year. For more information, visit www.whff.org.

SPRING 2021

STUDENTNEWS College interns begin spring session

HACU National Internship Program accepting applications for fall session The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities National Internship Program is accepting applications from college students for the fall 2021 session. The fall internship program dates are Sept. 2 – Dec. 17, 2021. The online application deadline is June 4, 2021. Federal internship sessions are for 15-weeks during the fall program. The location of internships are at federal agencies in Washington, D.C. and field offices nationwide. Federal interns also participate in an orientation prior to the start of their internship.

More than 60 college students were welcomed to HACU’s National Internship Program in a virtual orientation on Jan. 7, 2021 for the spring session. All interns will work remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Welcoming remarks were given by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, followed by staff remarks about the internship program. The following agencies in the Washington, D.C., metro area and field offices throughout the country are among those providing virtual internship opportunities to students: • Centers for Disease Control • Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration • U.S. Census Bureau • U.S. Department of Agriculture • U.S. Department of Treasury Over 100 students will serve as interns for the next 15 weeks as part of HACU’s National Internship Program.

HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Applications for paid internship positions within the following agencies are being accepted: Center for Disease Control, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Library of Congress, National Institutes of Health Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Agency for International Development, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Agriculture. The HACU National Internship Program works with agencies to offer virtual internships due to COVID-19 and adapts the program as needed to continue offering these career development experiences for college students. For more information on internship opportunities, visit https://www.hacu.net/hacu/HNIP.asp.

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26th ANNUAL NATIONAL CAPITOL FORUM O N H I S PA N I C H I G H E R E D U C AT I O N

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