OF HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION
VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 4 | WINTER 2021
HACU Celebrates 35 Years of Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Careers in agriculture are diverse, rewarding, and in demand. USDA offers employment opportunities for students and recent graduates to work in the agricultural, science, technology, math, environmental, management, business, and other fields. From the classroom to the workplace, the USDA supports student engagement, recruitment, retention, and agricultural workforce development. Learn more at www.usda.gov/youth/career.
United States Department of Agriculture USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. www.USDA.gov
TABLEOFCONTENTS MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 4 | WINTER 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. 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. Publisher Antonio R. Flores, Ph.D. HACU President and CEO Senior Vice President for Programs and Operations Lisa Alcorta, Ph.D. Editor Norma Jean Revilla-García njgarcia@hacu.net Assistant editor/writer Chris de Hoyos chris.dehoyos@hacu.net Lupe Flores news@hacu.net
HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES GOVERNING BOARD 2020-21 Sue Henderson, Chair President New Jersey City University Jersey City, N.J.
Cesar Maldonado Chancellor Houston Community College Houston, Texas
Mike Flores, Vice-Char Chancellor Alamo Colleges District San Antonio, Texas
Brad L. Mortensen President Weber State University Ogden, Utah
Margaret Venable, Secretary President Dalton State College Dalton, Ga.
Juan Sánchez Muñoz Chancellor University of California, Merced Merced, Calif.
David Méndez Pagán, Treasurer Rector Universidad Ana G. Méndez Recinto de Gurabo Gurabo, Puerto Rico
Devorah Lieberman President University of La Verne La Verne, Calif.
Greg Peterson Juan Muñoz, Substitute for Past Chair President Chancellor Chandler-Gilbert Community University of California, Merced College Chandler, Ariz. Michael D. Amiridis Chancellor Garnett S. Stokes University of Illinois at Chicago President Chicago, Ill. The University of New Mexico Albuquerque, N.M. Adela de la Torre President Andrew Sund San Diego State University President San Diego, Calif. Heritage University Toppenish, Wash. Howard Gillman Chancellor Luke Visconti University of California, Irvine Founder and Chairman Irvine, Calif. DiversityInc West Palm Beach, Fla. Emma Grace Hernández Flores President Federico Zaragoza Universidad de Iberoamérica President San José, Costa Rica College of Southern Nevada Las Vegas, Nev. Olga Hugelmeyer Superintendent of Schools Ex-Officio: Elizabeth Public Schools Antonio R. Flores Elizabeth, N.J. President and CEO HACU
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
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HACU NEWS 3 CAPITOL HILL NEWS
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MEMBER NEWS
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News and photos courtesy of HACU-Member Institutions
HACU HOSTS 35TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE “35 YEARS OF CHAMPIONING HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION SUCCESS"
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HACU 2021 HONOREES
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35 YEARS OF CHAMPIONING HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION SUCCESS
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HACU WANTS YOUR SUCCESS STORY AS A PROGRAM ALUMNI
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MARYMOUNT DUO BECOME LEADERS-IN-RESIDENCE TO SUPPORT HISPANIC STUDENTS
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UC SANTA CRUZ TEACHING TEAMS CREATE NETWORK OF HOLISTIC STUDENT SUPPORT 20
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, Puerto Rico, 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 in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, California. Additional information is available at www.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. WINTER 2021
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s we approach the end of this milestone year of HACU’s 35th Anniversary, we want to thank all of our past and present supporters who have worked with us in championing Hispanic higher education success. This anniversary follows nearly two years of adapting to new ways of learning, teaching, advocating and supporting students in their education. Our advocacy efforts have continued despite the pandemic, for there is still much work to be done in achieving equity for Hispanic-Serving Institutions. My first trip back to Washington, D.C., since the start of the pandemic had a full slate of meetings that allowed us to continue making the case for much-needed funding support for HSIs. I hope you will join HACU at our Annual Capitol Forum, taking place April 5-6, 2022, to help us shape and promote an agenda for Congress and the country. We need your voice to be heard loud and clear by our legislators.
In this issue, we include highlights of our virtual 35th Annual Conference, where we recognized several individuals and organizations who have been essential to furthering HACU’s mission. The conference also included the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute, which hosted over 500 students during the course of the conference, and our preand post-conference events designed to address specific leadership and collaboration issues. We hope that our conference next year will bring us together for an in-person conference in San Diego, California. You’ll also find on page 8 our Member News, where we welcome new members, as well as newly appointed presidents and chancellors from member institutions. A special section for our Anniversary year on page 16 focuses on the work we accomplished these past years. The Association began creating programming soon after its inception over three decades ago; programs that have been expanded, extended or transformed to support thousands of students and the institutions that educate them. This, in turn, has resulted in a powerful base of alumni whose lives have been touched and changed by our initiatives. These individuals are not just students – but also distinguished academics and administrators among their ranks, including those in HACU’s Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo, whose graduates are already beginning to make their mark as leaders at colleges and institutions across the country. We encourage any alumni of HACU’s programs to visit page 18 and send us their story of how their career was enriched by the experience. We also feature two stories submitted by member institutions: one from the University of California, Santa Cruz on a Title V program that reshaped how students receive peer support in the most challenging courses at the undergraduate level; and a story from Marymount University about two of their students who were selected for the HACU Leader-in-Residence program, which you can learn more about on our website if you know of a deserving student at your institution. As we start the holiday season, we hope you will consider HACU when making your end of the year charitable donations. Support from donors helps us make a lasting impact on students who benefit from HACU programs. We hope to see you in person once again, and soon, as we work together to create opportunities for our students and the institutions that serve them. Please be safe and enjoy the time with your loved ones. Cordially,
Antonio R. Flores
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HACUNEWS HACU announces four new members to its Governing Board for 2021-2022 HACU has named four new governing board members. Board members serve three-year terms with the opportunity to be re-elected for a second term. HACU Governing Board officers are as follows: Chair Sue Henderson, president of New Jersey City University, New Jersey; Vice-Chair Mike Flores, chancellor of Alamo Colleges District; Secretary Margaret Venable, president of Dalton State College; Treasurer David Méndez Pagán, rector of Universidad Ana G. Méndez, Recinto de Gurabo; and Substitute for Past Chair Juan Muñoz, chancellor of University of California, Merced. Newly elected board members include: Devorah Lieberman, Ph.D., is the University of La Verne’s 18th and first female president with more than 30 years of higher education experience, and has been recognized for her work with awards from the American Council of Education award, the Washington Center Higher Education Civic Engagement Award, the TIAA-CREF Theodore M. Hesburgh Award for Excellence, and was named President of the Year in 2015 by the Association of College Unions International. Lieberman served as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Wagner College in New York from 2004 to 2011. Lieberman earned a bachelor’s degree from Humboldt State University, a master’s degree from San Diego State University, and a doctorate from the University of Florida. Cesar Maldonado, Ph.D., is the chancellor of Houston Community College. Maldonado previously served as president of Texas State Technical College, and was vice chancellor for Institutional Effectiveness and Commercialization for the TSTC System while remaining president at TSTC Harlingen. He served for over a decade as a board member and twice as president of the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District; served as the interim chairman of the Border Governors Conference on Science and Technology, and was appointed to serve as a regent of the Texas State Technical College System. Maldonado holds bachelor’s and master’ degrees from Texas A&M University, and a doctorate from Texas Tech University. Brad L. Mortensen, Ph.D., is the 13th president of Weber State University. He joined Weber State in 2004 as assistant vice president for auxiliary and support services and served as vice president of university advancement from 2007 through 2018. He has served as chair for the Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Northern Utah, and was recognized by Utah Business as a 2018 CXO of the Year. Prior to Weber State, his professional work included the Utah System of Higher Education, the Utah governor’s office, the Arizona legislature, and two policy fellowships. Mortensen earned an associate’s degree from Ricks College, a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University, a master’s degree from Syracuse University, and a doctorate from the University of Utah.
Luke Visconti is the founder and chairman of DiversityInc, launched as a website in 1997 and is now a leading publication for diversity. He created the DiversityInc Top 50, the leading corporate diversity list now entering its 20th year with more than 1,200 participants for 2019. Visconti created the DiversityInc Foundation, a 501(c)(3) primarily funding endowed scholarships at three schools: Bennett College, New Jersey City University and Rutgers University. He currently serves on the board of New Jersey City University Foundation and the Rutgers Foundation, is vice chairman of the National Organization on Disability, and is on HACU’s corporate and philanthropy board. Visconti is a U.S. Navy veteran and holds a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University. HACU extends its sincere thanks to members completing their terms and for all their contributions during their service to the board: Monte E. Pérez, former president of Los Angeles Mission College; Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, chancellor of The City University of New York; and Joe Mella, vice president of Finance Division, Goldman Sachs.
HACU and Grow with Google select first six HSIs for Career Readiness Program grants In partnership with Grow with Google, HACU launched the Grow with Google HSI Career Readiness Program, which provides Hispanic-Serving Institutions with a grant to train Latinx students for the digital work force. Six initial grant awardees have been selected, with a goal of 200,000 digitally-skilled college graduates prepared for employment. After the first semester of the program, an additional 29 HSIs will be added and eventually the program will be made available to all HSIs. The first 35 HSIs selected will be eligible to receive micro grant funding - ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 - to facilitate and manage the program at career services centers on participating campuses. The first six selected HSIs are: California State University, San Bernardino Florida State University Miami Dade College San Bernardino Valley College South Texas College University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley WINTER 2021
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HACUNEWS HACU names Lisa Alcorta, Ph.D., new senior vice president of programs and operations HACU has named Lisa Alcorta, Ph.D., senior vice president of programs and operations. Alcorta will be responsible for the operations of the Association and implementation of policies, goals and objectives set by the president/CEO and Governing Board. She joins HACU with 20 years of experience in higher education, most recently as vice president for student success at San Antonio College-Alamo Colleges District. She served prior to that as director of developmental education and Achieving the Dream under the vice chancellor of academic success for the Alamo Colleges District. Alcorta earned a bachelor’s from The University of Texas at San Antonio, a master’s from Our Lady of the Lake University, and a doctorate from The University of Texas at Austin.
HACU, Apple partner to award Apple Scholars Program scholarships HACU is partnering with Apple to award $15,000 scholarships through the Apple Scholars Program to exceptional college students attending HACU-member institutions. Selected students will receive a scholarship and participate in a one-week immersion program at Apple. Each scholar will be assigned an Apple mentor throughout their experience to develop skills, enhance their resumes and help launch their careers through hands-on experience gained at a top tech company. Applicants who submitted an online application an essay of up to 500 words by Dec. 3, 2021 will be considered. Information available at https://www.hacu.net/hacu/Scholarships.asp. The HACU Scholars Program is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program.
Ten students awarded Interfaith Youth Core Scholarships HACU selected 10 students from HACU-member institutions to receive an Interfaith Youth Core Scholarship of $500. Sophomore, junior, senior and graduate students from institutions in California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, and Texas were among those selected for the 2021-2022 academic year. For the list of member institutions and recipients, visit https://bit.ly/2YqDzft. The Interfaith Youth Core Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program.
HACU, Kia America, Inc. partner to award STEAM scholarships HACU is partnering with Kia America, Inc. to award 17 scholarships totaling $34,000 to eligible students attending a HACUmember institution. The Kia America – HACU STEAM Scholarship awards of $2,000 are open to students in various majors of science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Students must meet the following eligibility criteria: • Be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student attending a twoyear or four-year HACU-member institution • 3.0 GPA or above • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States • Preference shall be given to candidates who are residents of California and Georgia Applicants who submitted an online application by Dec. 3, 2021 will be considered. Information available at https://www.hacu.net/hacu/Scholarships.asp. The Kia America, Inc. HACU STEAM Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program.
HACU, Oracle Corporation announce scholarship recipients HACU and the Oracle Corporation have announced two students from HACU-member institutions receiving scholarships for 2021-22 school year. The recipients of the Oracle scholarship awards of $2,125 each are Branden Bedoya, Florida International University, and Dina Orozco, The University of Texas at Austin. The Oracle Corporation scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program. 4
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Congressman Joaquin Castro met with HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and staff on Nov. 9, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas.
HACUNEWS HACU, Sherwin-Williams partner Twenty-five students awarded to offer scholarships to Hispanic Café Bustelo® El Café Del Futuro students Scholarships totaling $125,000 HACU has selected 25 students from HACUmember institutions to each receive a Café Bustelo® El Café del Futuro Scholarship of $5,000. Since 2016, $465,000 in college funds have been awarded to 93 Latino students nationwide through the partnership. Students submit essays describing how their Latino heritage, family and the community in which they grew Students must meet the following eligibility criteria: • Be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student attending a two- up in impacted their desire and motivation to obtain a college degree. year or four-year HACU-member institution. For the list of member institutions and recipients, visit • Open to all majors. https://bit.ly/3mx7ElS. • 2.5 GPA or above. • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States. The Café Bustelo® El Café del Futuro Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 Students must submit the following essay questions in 200 words or HACU Scholarship Program. less: • How has your Hispanic/Latin heritage impacted your motivation to obtain a college degree. • How will you give back to your community during your time in school and after? • How can Sherwin Williams bring communities together? HACU is partnering with the Sherwin-Williams Company to offer college students scholarships. Students at HACU-member institutions can apply for one of the four $2,500 SherwinWilliams Scholarships to be awarded.
HACU, The Coca-Cola Foundation partner to award scholarships to first-generation students
Applicants who submitted an online application by Dec. 3, 2021 will be considered. Information available at https://www.hacu.net/hacu/Scholarships.asp. HACU is partnering with The Coca-Cola Foundation to offer five The Sherwin-Williams Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU scholarships for college and university students. Students at HACUScholarship Program. member institutions can apply for one of the five $2,500 Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarships to be awarded.
HACU, Miller Lite award scholarships and leadership development opportunities
HACU and Miller Lite are supporting the next generation of Hispanic leaders by awarding scholarships to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at HACU-member institutions in select cities. Fifty-five scholarships of $2,500 were awarded to eligible college students in select cities, in the following states: California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New York, Texas, Wisconsin, and Puerto Rico. Eight scholarships of $5,000 were awarded to eligible college students in Houston, Texas. In addition to the scholarships, recipients also received a sponsorship to attend HACU’s ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute, the student track offered in conjunction with HACU’s Annual Conference. Miller Lite offered a total of 72 sponsorships for the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute. For the list of member institutions and recipients, visit https://bit.ly/3iDV9Ux.
Students must meet the following eligibility criteria: • Must be a first-generation college student (defined as a student of Hispanic descent who comes from a family where their parents did not complete a four-year college degree in the United States). • Be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student attending a two-year or four-year HACU-member institution. • Open to all majors. • 2.5 GPA or above. • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Students must submit a 500-word essay about your personal motivation for applying to the Coca-Cola scholarship as a first-generation college student. Scholarship recipients are required to submit a head shot electronically to HACU. Applicants who submitted an online application by Dec. 3, 2021 will be considered. Information available at https://www.hacu.net/hacu/Scholarships.asp. The Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program.
The Miller Lite Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program. WINTER 2021
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HACUNEWS HACU, United Talent Agency announce scholarship recipients HACU has selected two students from member institutions to each receive a United Talent Agency Scholarship of $2,500.
2022 Call for Presentations for HACU Annual Conference on Hispanic higher education HACU 36th ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America
October 8-10, 2022 | Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
Students submitted essays addressing their career role model, their desire to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, and what part of the industry has been able to influence culture and drive change. The student recipients and their institutions are Elias Hudson, The University of Texas at San Antonio, and Ana Perez, University of Houston. The United Talent Agency Scholarship is part of the 2021-22 HACU Scholarship Program.
HACU convenes planning meeting to strengthen STEM talent pipeline at HSIs
San Diego, California
Call for Presentations Submission deadline: March 11, 2022 Notification of proposal acceptance: April 4, 2022 H I S P A N I C
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The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has announced the Call for Presentations for its 36th Annual Conference, Oct. 8-10, 2022, at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, in San Diego, Calif. • Call for Presentations submission deadline: March 11, 2022 • Notification of proposal acceptances: April 4, 2022 Speaker proposals under the conference theme, "Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America," will be accepted in any of the following six conference tracks: • Grants and Fundraising Opportunities • Partnerships that Work • Executive Leadership for Presidents, CEOs and Trustees
HACU convened a three-day planning meeting on Nov. 1-3, 2021, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, addressing Hispanic graduate student success in STEM. The event brought together partnering institutions under the NSF INCLUDES Planning Grant: A Collaboration of Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Organizations to Strengthen Pathways to STEM Graduate Education for Hispanic Students. The meeting in New Mexico provided an opportunity for institutions to collaborate further on STEM initiative planning, with eight sessions of discussion and information exchange on STEM-related initiatives at their campuses. Participants represented many segments of the higher education sectors, such as two-year, four-year, public undergraduate institutions, and doctoral granting universities, including R1 institutions. The outcomes of this planning grant are expected to lay the foundation for the implementation of future research and programmatic strategic initiatives at scale among HSIs nationally. HACU staff participating in the meeting included Lisa Alcorta, Ph.D., senior vice president for programs and operations, John Moder, Ph.D., senior consultant for STEM programming and Sonia Martinez, executive director of STEM programs. Working in collaboration with the HACU staff, the coprincipal investigators Marla A. Franco, Ph.D., The University of Arizona, and Barbara Endemaño Walker, Ph.D., University of California, Santa Barbara, led and facilitated the discussions with the partner institutions. 6
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• Championing Academic Success for Hispanic Students, Research and Practice • Advocacy and Policy • International Partnerships Presentations can be submitted individually or in groups. Submissions for roundtable presentations are encouraged. For more information, detailed guidelines and to submit, visit https://www.hacu.net/hacu/ Call_for_Papers_AC.asp
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HACUNEWS HACU president and CEO travels to nation’s capital to advocate for HSIs
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Antonio R. Flores, HACU president and CEO, traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet in person and virtually with legislators, federal administrators and other advocates of Hispanic higher education success from Nov. 1-4, 2021, accompanied by staff from the Association’s Government Relations office. The trip takes place as the Build Back Better Act approaches passage in the U.S. House of Representatives and contains funding provisions that will substantially boost support for HSIs. Flores met with: Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Ethan Rosenzweig; USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement Special Initiatives Coordinator Maria Goldberg; and Undersecretary of Education James Kvaal. He also participated in an MOU signing with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Executive Director of Academic Engagement Traci Silas, and a Fireside Chat with Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves. Flores met in person with Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, Rep. Adriano Espaillat, and took part in a conference call with Sen. Patty Murray. “HACU is focused on ensuring that HSIs receive the funding necessary to restore infrastructure as well as provide support for Hispanic students who have borne the brunt of decades long inequities,” said Flores. “These visits with key members of Congress and Biden Administration officials are crucial to keeping this support at the forefront of efforts in our nation’s capital.”
Capitol Hill News Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill On Nov. 8, the House of Representatives passed the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill (H.R. 3684) which was passed by the Senate in August and funds education-related broadband expansion, lead pipe removal in schools and childcare centers, energy efficient improvements in schools and clean energy school buses. Build Back Better Act The House of Representatives continues to debate the passage of the Build Back Better Act (H.R. 5376) with the goal of holding a final vote on the bill in November. The Biden Administration provided the House Budget Committee an outline of funding provisions to be included in the legislation, many of which support Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Highlights of the bill benefiting HSIs are: • Funding for a $3 billion research and development infrastructure competitive grant program for MSIs • $470 million for HSI STEM and articulation programs • Pell grant increase to $550 — the largest one-time increase since 2009 • Extension of Pell grant recipient funding eligibility to DACA and Temporary Protected Status students The Senate will consider the legislation with an aim to begin debate in the chamber once a final passage has been completed by the House. Capitol Hill News is compiled by HACU's Government Relations office in Washington, D.C.
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MEMBERNEWS California Cabrillo College awarded five-year, $5 million U.S. Department of Education Title III grant Cabrillo College has been awarded a five-year, $5 Million U.S. Department of Education Title III grant program, Advancing in College & Career pathways to Expand STEM Opportunities or ACCESO, designed to increase access to education and careers in STEM fields for Latinx and/or low-income students. The grant will provide STEM outreach to K-12 students in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, specifically high school juniors and seniors, and fund the development of dual-enrollment math courses. Cabrillo will also use grant funds to develop courses for a new associate of science degree in biotechnology, update lab spaces and increase access to South County students, and secure course alignment and agreements with universities.
CSUCI receives U.S. Department of Education grant to diversify and support STEM students California State University Channel Islands is launching a new initiative, Articulating Your Undergraduate Degree & Academic Success or Project AYUDAS, aimed at promoting diversity and enhancing success for students wishing to pursue a STEM degree, funded by a $4,999,990 grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Project AYUDAS will encourage high school and community college students to pursue STEM majors at CSUCI; facilitate transition from community colleges with classes sensitive to the different cultural backgrounds and learning needs; and support students with peers and faculty members. Academic support for STEM students will be enhanced by adding a STEM component to the existing Academic Student Success Excellence Team Scholars or ASSET program, which provides support such as one-on-one peer or faculty mentoring and student workshops.
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Brenda Thames appointed superintendent and president of El Camino Community College Brenda Thames, Ph.D., has been appointed superintendent and president of El Camino Community College, and brings over 23 years of experience in instruction, student services, and administration in California Community Colleges. She was previously president of West Hills College Coalinga, has served in a broad spectrum of positions including adjunct faculty, tenured faculty, faculty coordinator, department chair, program director, dean, vice president of student services, and vice president of instruction. Burns completed the Harvard University Institute for Educational Management as well as fellowships with the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program and the UC Davis School of Education Center for Community College Leadership and Research. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, a master’s degree from University of Southern California, and a doctorate from Oregon State University.
Sac State receives $8 million in new funding to support Latinx students Sacramento State has been awarded $8 million in new funding from two five-year U.S. Department of Education grants. The first grant is a $3 million Developing HSI grant to launch the “Degree with a Purpose: Integration of Career Development and Financial Wellness into the College Experience” project. The second grant is a $5 million HSI STEM grant to fund “STEM4Equity,” which will increase the number of Latinx and low-income students graduating with STEM degrees. The first project aims to address educational and economic barriers for underrepresented and low-income students by prioritizing career development throughout their college experience. The second assists faculty in redesigning courses to be culturally responsive and to align with employer needs; expand the Peer Assisted Learning Program for students in four high-enrollment, high-fail-rate STEM courses; create a STEM transfer hub supporting transfer students; and promote leadership activities, micro-internships, and traditional paid internships.
MEMBERNEWS Richard Plumb named president of Saint Mary’s College of California Richard Plumb, Ph.D., a first-generation college graduate, has been named president of Saint Mary’s College of California. He began his academic career on the faculty at the University of Kansas, served as professor and chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the State University of New York at Binghamton, and was appointed dean of the Seaver College of Science and Engineering at Loyola Marymount University. Plumb also served as executive vice president and provost at the University of St. Thomas. Plumb earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from Syracuse University.
USC, CHLA win $24.5 million NIH grant for center aimed at improving Latino health A partnership between the University of Southern California and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles has been awarded a $24.5 million National Institute of Health grant to launch a center aimed at fighting obesity and related chronic diseases in Latino children and families across Southern California. The center will establish a consortium across 10 counties, bringing together universities, hospitals and community groups to develop and test culturally sensitive, family-based interventions to early-life nutrition, environment and social factors that put Hispanic youth at risk of obesity and obesity-related chronic diseases for the rest of their lives.
Colorado PCC receives nearly $11 million in federal, state and local grants A number of grants were awarded to Pueblo Community College to expand and promote a number of college programs: • A $2.9 million federal Title V grant will help create Onboarding Practices and Teaching to Implement Cultural Awareness, a program to help new students adjust to life at PCC, and create a faculty learning lab for professional development. • A $5 million federal Title III grant from the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education in the U.S. Department of Education is going to the STEM Excellence in Development, student Growth and Equity project to develop, improve and expand PCC’s capacity to serve Hispanic and lowincome students. The college is collaborating with Colorado State University Pueblo, also a HACU-member institution, on the project. • A $1.4 million Finish What You Started grant from The Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative to supplement PCC’s Return to Earn scholarship program for those who left PCC with fewer than 30 credits needed to graduate. • A $1.2 million grant from the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative will assist the health information technology and computer information systems programs at PCC’s Fremont and Southwest campuses. • A $250,000 CO-TECH grant to collaborate with employers to increase registered apprenticeship opportunities in information technology and cybersecurity careers. Students in the program will receive a credential from PCC and an industry-recognized credential from CompTIA, Amazon Web Services, Oracle or Microsoft. • A City of Pueblo award of $150,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act grant to PCC’s Children First program to help new childcare providers establish licensed programs to expand childcare options in Pueblo, and help families find childcare resources. • A grant for $100,000 from the Colorado Healthcare Experiential Learning Pathways to Success program to help with planning, development and implementation expenses associated with PCC’s new medical assistant apprenticeship program.
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HACU-member institutions can send news, photos and their logo for publishing consideration in an upcoming magazine edition. Send to news@hacu.net. WINTER 2021
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MEMBERNEWS Illinois SXU awarded two grants from U.S. Department of Education Saint Xavier University was awarded two grants from the U.S. Department of Education funded by the Title V HSI Program: the Enlace grant of $2,867,919, and the $4,571,166 Conexiones grant, funded under the HSI STEM Program. Both five-year grants will build additional supports and strengthen existing resources for SXU students. The Enlace award is the second Title V grant and third major federal grant received by SXU and will build on the Title-V funded Comprehensive, Aligned Supports for Attainment initiative by integrating multicultural competency, equity awareness and learning-centered strategies in and outside of the classroom. The Conexiones program will improve developmental math offerings, facilitate transfer agreements with area community colleges, and offer additional student support including virtual video modules and internship placements.
New Jersey Caldwell University receives STEM grant from U.S. Department of Education Caldwell University has been awarded a $4,979,840 grant to benefit Hispanic and low-income students planning for careers in science, math and computer science. The grant is part of the U.S. Department of Education’s Fiscal Year 2021 HSI STEM and Articulation Program, and was awarded for the university’s new STEM Advance initiative for students in the School of Natural Sciences, Department of Mathematics, and Computer Science program in the School of Business and Computer Science. The funding allows Caldwell to hire more STEM faculty and bilingual staff, support student internships, research and employment, and develop articulation agreements with Passaic County Community College. The program will also fund the purchase of scientific instruments and the upgrading of research and computer science laboratory spaces.
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New Jersey Hudson County Community College awarded $3 million Title V Grant Hudson County Community College has been awarded a $3 million, five-year Title V grant from the United States Department of Education. The grant will enable the College to expand education opportunities and promote academic attainment focused on Hispanic and Latino students through “The Golden Door/La Puerta Dorada.” The project includes the development of an English as a Second Language Pathway Academy, revamping ESL curriculum offerings to better align with English-language learners’ needs; the redesign of student support services through the development of an ESL Resource Center; and the implementation of a faculty/staff Professional Development Program that addresses equity, inclusion, and the educational needs of adult English-language learners.
New Mexico NMSU awarded two HSI education grants Two New Mexico State University research projects to attract underrepresented students and increase the number of graduates prepared to enter the country’s food and agricultural scientific and professional workforce has been awarded HSI education grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The HSI Education Grants Program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture has awarded a four-year, $975,314 grant to “Young Agri-Scientists: Connecting diverse students to each other and food, agricultural and natural resources systems and sciences careers through experiential learning in mentored research and science communication,” and a four-year, nearly $275,000 grant to the project “Innovators from marginalized communities: interactive labs which help students see themselves in agricultural careers.”
MEMBERNEWS New York Susan R. Burns named president of the College of Mount Saint Vincent Susan R. Burns, Ph.D., has been named sixth president of the College of Mount Saint Vincent. She previously served Clarke University as vice president for Academic Affairs and dean of faculty, and Morningside College as associate dean for Academic Affairs. Burns is the author of numerous articles, research papers for peer-reviewed journals, as well as several books and book chapters. She is the recipient of several academic and leadership awards and has served on numerous community and professional organizations. Burns received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Emporia State University and her doctorate from Kansas State University.
Nevada DeRionne P. Pollard named president of Nevada State College DeRionne P. Pollard, Ph.D., is the first Black female president of any Nevada System of Higher Education institution with her appointment to lead Nevada State College. She previously held roles at the College of Lake County and served as president of both Montgomery College and Las Positas College. Pollard served on the American Association of Community Colleges’ 21st Century Commission on the Future of Community Colleges, the Commission on Academic, Student, and Community Development, and the Board of Directors. She is a member of the Ascend Postsecondary Leadership Circle for Parents and the Center for First-generation Student Success Advisory Board for the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. Pollard holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Iowa State University, and doctorate from Loyola University Chicago.
Texas Jaime R. Taylor appointed president of Lamar University Jaime R. Taylor, Ph.D., has been appointed president of Lamar University, previously serving as Marshall University’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Prior to his work at Marshall, Taylor spent a significant portion of his career at Austin Peay State University, where he served two years as interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, eight years as dean of the College of Science and Mathematics and eight years as chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. He received a bachelor’s from Austin Peay State University, and a master’s and doctorate from the University of Tennessee Space Institute. Taylor also spent four years as a NASA Faculty Fellow.
Ana Patterson appointed president of Southwestern Adventist University Ana Patterson was appointed president of Southwestern Adventist University. She began teaching in the department of business administration in 2012 and served as faculty advisor for seven years. Patterson also served as special assistant to the president coordinating the campus response to COVID-19 and assisting with marketing projects. She has served on several community boards including the Johnson County Children’s Advocacy Center, Keene Adventist Elementary School Board and the Johnson County Hunger Coalition. Patterson earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwestern Adventist University.
UTEP receives $3M NSF grant to enhance STEM education for Hispanic undergrads The University of Texas at El Paso received a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation’s Improving Undergraduate STEM Education: HSI Program. The award funds a project centering on improving students’ educational experiences through shared knowledge about effective practices; faculty professional development and community building; and inclusive, data-informed decision-making that leads to continuous improvement. The university will implement a replicable institutional approach that considers learning outcomes, students’ experiences, internal organizational structures, and external influences.
UIW receives $2.9 million grant to retain and graduate Hispanic students The University of the Incarnate Word received a five-year, $2.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education for the new Financial Literacy, Integrated Guidance and Health career Tracts, or FLIGHT program, to provide mentorship to Hispanic students. The UIW FLIGHT program will establish a mentoring center to provide students access to mentors and develop an academic and financial plan; create a first-year seminar course taught by FLIGHT-certified faculty and embedded in learning communities with FLIGHT-certified peer mentors; and establish a health professions pathway guided by a FLIGHT-certified mentor/advisor who works with the Health Professions Advisory Council.
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HACU hosts 35th Annual Conference
“35 Years of Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success.”
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early 1700 education leaders and college students were officially registered to remotely network, discuss and learn about the latest topics affecting Hispanics in higher education at the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities’ 35th Annual Conference, “35 Years of Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success,” a virtual event taking place Oct. 25-27, 2021. A Colors presentation by the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard launched the Opening Plenary, followed by a recording of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Featured in the Plenary was the State of HACU Address, with HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores speaking on HACU’s past and the plans for the Association’s future, and addressing recent challenges for member-institutions. An additional part of the Plenary was the President’s Award of Excellence, as well as the induction of two honorees to the HACU Hall of Champions. The three-day conference featured over 50 workshops and a Town Hall discussion on the topic “The Time for Immigration Reform is Now: The Key Role Colleges & Universities Can Play in Shaping Policy.” HACU’s ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute, a three-day career and leadership development program, had more than 530 undergraduate students from representing 149 institutions from 25 states and Puerto Rico. The International Plenary featured a panel discussion with four HACU-member institution leaders, as well as several awards including the HACU/Deloitte Leadership Award. The Association will host its 36th Annual Conference, “Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America,” Oct. 10-8, 2022, in San Diego, Calif.
Town Hall
Representative Linda T. Sánchez
Senator John Cornyn 12
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HACU 2021 Honorees The annual gathering also served as an opportunity to honor six leading individuals, institutions and organizations. Among the honorees recognized were:
The President’s Award of Excellence in recognition of outstanding service to Hispanic higher education success was presented to Monte E. Pérez, Ph.D., in tribute to his service as an 11-year member of HACU’s Governing Board and two years as chair. Pérez has provided outstanding leadership as president of Los Angeles Mission College, as an advocate for Hispanic higher education and through participation in HACU events and initiatives both in the U.S. and abroad.
The Extraordinary Philanthropic Partner award in recognition of excellence in support of HACU’s mission from a philanthropic partner was presented to The Sallie Mae Fund. Through grant support, The Sallie Mae Fund has provided the means to further advance the shared mission of both organizations addressing critical issues affecting educational access, social justice, diversity, equity, inclusion, career success and economic mobility for minority and underserved students, many who attend Hispanic-Serving Institutions.
Rep. Joaquin Castro The Exemplary Policy/Advocacy Leadership award in recognition of exemplary leadership and support of HACU’s policy issues was presented to Rep. Joaquin Castro. As a co-chair of the Congressional Hispanic-Serving Institution Caucus, and the author of the HERE Act, Congressman Castro has played an invaluable role in support of HSIs in Congress. He has made important contributions to the educational success of underserved populations, particularly of Latinos/as.
The Outstanding Private Sector Partner award in recognition of excellence in support of HACU’s mission from a corporate partner was presented to Google. Through a partnership established in 2015, Google’s commitment to supporting Hispanic higher education success with leadership and career development programming has benefited Latino students at HSIs. Their support of curriculum development for technology majors, and offerings of internships and entry-level opportunities have provided invaluable career pathways and experience for students.
The Outstanding HACU-Member Institution award in recognition of excellence in support of HACU’s mission was presented to Metropolitan State University of Denver. For 35 years, MSU Denver has been a supportive member of the Association and a leader in advancing the social mobility of its students and committed to fostering equity. MSU Denver recently hosted HACU’s Emerging Leaders’ Summit, has actively participated in advocacy efforts as part of the Capitol Forum, and engaged students in HACU student programs.
The Outstanding Public Sector Partner award in recognition of excellence in support of HACU’s mission from a federal partner was presented to the U.S. Census Bureau. For several years, HACU and the U.S. Census Bureau have partnered to offer paid internships to students from colleges and universities nationwide. The U.S. Census Bureau has contributed to providing valuable experience to students pursuing career paths within the federal government. The U.S. Census Bureau was recognized for its long-standing support of HACU’s National Internship Program and its efforts to develop a diverse workforce. WINTER 2021
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2021 HACU Hall of Champions Inductees Two honorees were inducted into HACU’s Hall of Champions during the Opening Plenary of the Annual Conference, recognizing those embodying the mission of the Association through exemplary efforts and contributions to higher education. Frank Reyes has championed public policies to increase federal investment and student opportunities at HSIs for more than three decades, beginning his career as an outreach coordinator and student advisor, eventually serving as associate vice chancellor of Government Relations at the San Bernardino Community College District. Reyes was appointed as the district’s lead representative to HACU, and was part of HACU’s delegation securing the first federal funding allocation of $12 million for HSIs under Title V in the Higher Education Act, and is now more than $133 million. Reyes is currently advocating with HACU to establish an HSIs Capital Financing Grant Program to address the pressing infrastructure needs of HSIs that were exacerbated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Reyes earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from California State University San Bernardino. Other Conference Events The Annual Conference’s preconference events included: the seventh PreK-12 Higher Education Collaboration Symposium; the 20th Latino Higher Education Leadership Institute; and the 10th Annual Deans’ Forum on Hispanic Higher Education, a postconference event that brought together college and university deans and senior administrators for networking and discussion on issues and opportunities for the academic success of Hispanic students in higher education.
Salme Harju Steinberg is a leader in public and private higher education as scholar, historian, and writer who served as president of Northeastern Illinois University, an HSI and HACU-member institution, for 12 years while also serving as member and chair of the Governing Board for HACU. As President Emerita of Northeastern Illinois University, she continues to advocate for students from underrepresented groups and to find ways to create opportunity through her work on several not-for-profit boards. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Hunter College and a doctorate from Johns Hopkins University.
(L-R) Edgar Rosillo and Karly Aguilar presented the Deloitte Leadership Award to Adrian Navarro.
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona delivered a video message to participants during the HACU Town Hall.
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Save-the-Date
October 8-10, 2022 HACU 36th ANNUAL CONFERENCE Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
San Diego
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Early Bird Registration is May 31, 2022 H I S P A N I C
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35 Years of Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success
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he year 2021 marks a milestone for the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, the 35th Anniversary of its 1986 founding with 18 charter members in San Antonio, Texas. Established to serve as the voice for Hispanic-Serving Institutions and advocate for the students they serve, HACU has stayed true to its mission while evolving to meet the challenges and opportunities of a changing society. Today, more than 500 institutions in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Latin America and Spain are members of HACU and the Association is focused on extending membership to every HSI. In 2010, there were 311 HSIs and according to the latest data available as of the fall of 2019-20, there are now 569 HSIs that are home to more than two-thirds of all Hispanic college students in the U.S. While they represent only 17% of all higher education institutions nationwide, HSI enrollment is expected to exceed 4.4 million students by 2025.
HSIs have faced grave inequities in funding and support from the very start while serving the fastest growing population in the nation, and though notable improvements have been achieved in the past 35 years, a gap in equitable funding still exists.
The workforce demands of this century will require higher levels of knowledge and technology than ever before. Education is indisputably the key, and HACU is committed to advocating for funding, offering programs and creating partnerships that will ensure Hispanic success from kindergarten through graduate school. HACU’s achievements over the past 25 years have been under the leadership of its President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, who was drawn to the role because of the potential for effecting massive change in Hispanic higher education nationwide. That promise of change became rapidly realized with new policy and legislation, exponential growth in membership, and groundbreaking initiatives. The HACU National Internship Program, for example, has placed over 450 student interns annually at federal agencies in Washington, D.C., and field offices, for a total of over 13,000 placements since its inception in 1992. The HACU intern program has also been recognized by the federal Office of Personnel Management as a key strategy in increasing Hispanic employment in the federal government.
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Through its partnerships with corporations, students are also placed in corporate internships across the nation. A more recent and already successful program is the HACU Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo, launched in 2019 to increase Hispanic representation in academic administration. While Hispanics are over 18% of all college students in the nation, only 3.9% of the more than 3,500 presidents and CEOs of colleges and universities are Hispanic. Graduates of the first cohort are already taking on key roles at their home institutions. The Association also maintains more than 30 formal Memoranda of Understanding and Partnership Agreements with federal agencies, offices, and business organizations to facilitate outreach and recruitment to academic programs and employment opportunities. HACU’s Annual Conference has become its premiere conference on Hispanic higher education, bringing together participants invested in the success of Hispanics in higher education, as well as to forge links between K-12 and higher education, and explore international education partnerships. For the last 26 years HACU has brought higher education administrators, faculty members and students to Washington, D.C., each spring for the Annual National Capitol Forum to learn the latest in federal education policy and legislation, and advocate for HSIs with their legislators on the Hill. Every other year HACU’s International Conference focuses on opportunities for cross-border collaborations, addressing critical issues in international education. Meeting these myriad challenges of the past 35 years prepared HACU for pivoting quickly at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, advocating for legislation with lawmakers remotely, finding and ensuring distribution of desperately needed aid for students and their institutions, establishing virtual internships with federal agencies and corporations, and conducting the Annual Conference and Capitol Forum in a virtual format served as new avenues and approaches for the Association’s vital work. “As we celebrate HACU’s 35 years, we look forward to continuing the crucial work of engaging advocates to advance equity in Hispanic higher education,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “Together we can make our voices heard so that Hispanic-Serving Institutions receive the investments needed to educate the future workforce of our nation.”
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HACU Wants Your Success Story as a Program Alumni In over three decades of advocating for Hispanic higher education success, HACU has opened doors to opportunities for countless college students, academics and administrators, as well as professionals in the state, federal and private sector. Through advocacy efforts and partnerships, the Association offered programs that created learning and networking opportunities not always available to Hispanics and other people of color in our country. Many alumni of these programs are working, researching, teaching and contributing to our nation’s growth and success. We want to share those stories. The benefits of these programs can extend beyond the individual. Students receiving an internship or scholarship from HACU can inspire siblings, other family members, as well as friends and peers to see education as not just a goal but as a step to a rewarding and successful future. Success stories from students and alumni highlight the journey of the many lives that have been touched by HACU’s mission to champion Hispanic higher education success. Below are only a few of the programs HACU launched or were partners in establishing. Participants of these programs or any others not listed are encouraged to submit a story of approximately 500 words at the link provided. We look forward to learning of the value and meaning one of our programs had in your life, and sharing it with our readers. ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute (HACU Annual Conference-Student Track) Emerging Leaders’ Summit Google Hispanic Student Leadership Summit HACU/Southwest Airlines ¡Lánzate! Travel Award Program HACU Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo HACU Leader in Residence HACU National Internship Program (federal and corporate) HACU Scholarship Program HACU STEM Summits For additional information, please contact the staff of the magazine at news@hacu.net.
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MARYMOUNT DUO BECOME LEADERS-IN-RESIDENCE TO SUPPORT HISPANIC STUDENTS BY JASMINE PELAEZ
“It’s a huge part of my identity and I like to make it known,” Benitez said. She not only serves as a senator for the University’s Student Government Association, but Benitez also is engaged as the public relations officer for the Latinx Student Association and is a member and ally of the MU Dreamers organization, which supports undocumented students. In addition to gaining career-advancing skills, Leaders-in-Residence participants also learn about HACU’s internship opportunities and scholarship programs. Leaders are encouraged to conduct information sessions on campus about these services to increase engagement and opportunities for fellow students. For Trejo Mejia, guiding other students through the sometimes overwhelming transition to college is a personal mission. Born in Honduras, Trejo Mejia moved to the U.S. with her family when she was about three or four years old. Her family settled in Hyattsville, Md., and she has now spent a majority of her life in this country. “I am a DACA recipient and the college process was stressful,” she recalls. “During my senior year [of high school], there were not that many resources — but Marymount was able to open a door for me through TheDream.US scholarship.” With more than 70 partner colleges, TheDream.US is the nation’s leading college access program for Dreamers, and awards its national scholarship to students who demonstrate a commitment to community service. Marymount joined as a partner college in 2019, and welcomed its inaugural cohort of TheDream.US scholars the same year. When the opportunity arose to become a resource and advocate for fellow Hispanic students at Marymount University, sophomore Jessica Benitez and junior Ashly Trejo Mejia were eager to fill the role. Both students became the first from Marymount to be accepted into the highly competitive Leaders-in-Residence program, led by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. More than 25 percent of the undergraduate student population at Marymount identifies as Hispanic, earning the institution the Hispanic-Serving Instiution designation in 2020. As part of the Leaders-in-Residence program, students receive leadership and career development training throughout the academic year. The pinnacle event for the Leaders-in-Residence program is the HACU Annual Conference and its ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute, where more than 500 students from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico collaborate and build career and leadership skills while attending workshops, presentations and exhibitions.
“Being a first-generation student, I want to be able to provide help and make students feel even more welcome here at Marymount,” Trejo Mejia said. “I wish I had resources during the time that I was applying to college, so I would love to share that for future students.” Trejo Mejia leads the MU Dreamers organization as vice president, and says she plans to share more about HACU’s resources with members of the group and with the entire campus community through her role as an SGA senator. She is currently studying biology with a pre-medicine track, and is gaining invaluable experience as an intern at a research clinic in Washington, D.C. HACU is accepting applications for the Leadership-in-Residence Program through July 1, 2022. Information and application is available at www.hacu.net.
“I’m looking forward to attending the conference because I really want to gain skills, make connections and feel a sense of home with the other attendees,” Trejo Mejia said. “I think I’m most excited to be surrounded by students, educators and professionals that understand what it’s like to be a Hispanic student.” Both Trejo Mejia and Benitez identify as Hispanic and are part of on-campus organizations that focus on empowering Marymount’s Hispanic student population. Benitez is currently pursuing degrees in sociology on a pre-law and criminal justice track, with the ambition of becoming an attorney specializing in policy reform. For her, Marymount was the best institution to earn her degree because of its proximity to Washington, D.C., the epicenter of legislation and home of the U.S. Department of Education. Her parents are from El Salvador, and while she was born and raised in the U.S., Benitez grew up celebrating her family’s culture and considers Spanish her native language.
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TEACHING TEAMS CREATE NETWORK OF HOLISTIC STUDENT SUPPORT By Lisa Renner
Focused on advancing student success, University of California Santa Cruz is rethinking the teaching team - expanding it to include embedded tutors and holistic advisers who work closely with instructors and graduate student teaching assistants. The university piloted embedding services within a class five years ago with the support of a Title V Hispanic Serving Institution grant. This approach boosted student success and has become standard practice for key classes. The counselors “clear the pathways for them to be successful,” explained Aaron Jones, director for UC Santa Cruz Educational Opportunity Programs.
a high rate of students getting D or F letter grades, or withdrawals. The classes also have an achievement gap, with first-generation and low-income students receiving lower grades than other students. Offering embedded learning assistants adds another layer of support that can help make the classes more equitable. Lenno Lara Cortes, a fourth-year student and mathematics major, is an embedded learning assistant in pre-calculus math classes on Zoom. Cortes moves from breakout room to breakout room offering help to students working in small groups on various problems. “I’m a guide in a sense,” Cortes said. “I’m not there to give them the answer but to help them figure out the answer.” He also holds in-person tutoring sessions at the Science and Engineering Library for those who want additional help. He’s more approachable to students than a college professor as a fellow undergraduate who has taken the class.
The campus teaching teams meet regularly to coordinate efforts, each member serving as a potential contact point for a student in need of support. The teams create a network of holistic support offered in courses that create a disproportionate barrier for Latinx students. Outcomes include improved grades and retention rates as well as an increased sense of belonging, with a goal of ensuring students remain on the path to graduation and achieving their career goals. Sharon Castro, director of UC Santa Cruz Learning Support Services, said embedded learning assistants like Cortes seem to be most effective in classes that are “flipped” from the traditional lecture format. This means instead of attending class to listen to the professor lecture and then working independently at home on problems, students listen to a video of the lecture at home independently and come to class to work on the problems with others. This year, embedded support is offered in seven courses, including a variety of chemistry and math classes. The courses selected for embedded support have 20
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Jones currently has four counselors providing embedded support in four to six classes of science, technology, engineering or math classes a year. The counselors are introduced at the beginning of the class, and students are encouraged to reach out for their help as needed. The counselors also proactively reach out to students who have difficulty in the first assessments, acting as trouble-shooters for struggling students. They listen to students, asking questions like: Why didn’t the students pass the first test? How did they study? Are they using support services such as the disability resource center or basic needs support? What social factors are impacting them? “We’re here to get all the ducks in the row for and with the students so they can be successful in this class and all their classes,” Jones said.
Taking Action: COVID-19 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Challenge AN IDEAS CHALLENGE FOR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
The National Science Foundation is excited to announce the Taking Action: COVID-19 Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Challenge! NSF is calling on all colleges and universities to submit a 3-page written narrative of their actions or action plans to mitigate the long-term negative impacts of the pandemic on the diversity, equity and inclusion of their populations.
Challenge Categories
1. Undergraduate Students-2-Yr IHEs 2. Undergraduate Students-4-Yr IHEs 3. Graduate Students/ Postdoctoral Researchers 4. Faculty
Winners for Each Category 1st 2nd 3rd Honorable mention
Prizes $25,000 $15,000 $10,000 Up to 10 (no cash prize)
DEADLINE EXTENDED TO
January 30, 2022! SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL 11:59 PM EST December 30, 2021 For details on How To Enter visit: www.nsf.gov/takingaction
*IHEs do not need to have a grant from NSF. Sponsoring Programs: ADVANCE
HBCU-UP
LSAMP
AGEP
HSI
NSF INCLUDES
TCUP
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities National Headquarters 8415 Datapoint Drive, Suite 400 San Antonio, Texas 78229
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Permit No. 828 San Antonio, TX Stay Connected with @HACUNews
27th Annual National Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education
APRIL 5-6, 2022
Hilton Washington D.C. Capitol Hill
Early Bird Registration Deadline: February 11, 2022 Register Online at www.hacu.net
Stay Connected with @HACUNews #HACU2022 #FundHSIs