The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education - Fall 2023

NATIONAL HISPANIC-SERVING INSTITUTIONS WEEK

September 11-17, 2023

Each year, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) calls on Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) to join in observance of National HSIs Week. This week recognizes the 572 HSIs throughout the nation for their work and critical role in educating and empowering Hispanic youth. This year, HSIs Week will take place Sept. 11-17, 2023, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month.

Celebrating HSIs Week

Below are some suggestions of how colleges and universities can celebrate HSIs Week:

HSIs Week is observed by colleges and universities across the nation. Social media, virtual events and campus activities are encouraged to heighten awareness of the important role HSIs play in improving access to education and advancing equity for traditionally underserved students. Plans are underway for several members of Congress to recognize the contributions of HSIs in their communities.

1. Raise awareness - Partner with your local newspaper or radio station to advertise National HSIs Week and the events sponsored by your institution. This increased visibility can highlight the contributions made by HSIs on a local, national and international scale. Mention your membership with HACU.

2. Host a campus forum - Organize a town hall meeting with students, faculty, staff and community leaders to explore issues of particular interest to the HSI community.

3. Organize a community-wide activity - Build and promote campus-community partnerships to address various issues impacting the local community.

4. Use social media - Share your HSI stories and/or how your institution plans to celebrate National HSIs Week. Have your president share a video clip on the importance of HSIs. Tag @HACUNews on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Use hashtags #HSIs #HSIsWeek

5. Showcase your students - Arrange for your institution’s choir, band and/or cheerleading squad to perform during National HSIs Week. You may also highlight the week during a sporting event any day that week.

6. Celebrate National HSIs Week in a way unique to your institution.

OF HISPANIC HIGHER EDUCATION

VOLUME 32 | NUMBER 3 | FALL 2023

The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education is published quarterly by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, 4801 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 701, 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

Designer Michael Lopez michael.lopez@hacu.net

HISPANIC

ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES GOVERNING BOARD 2022-23

Mike Flores, Chair Chancellor

Alamo Colleges District

San Antonio, Texas

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

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

Emma Grace Hernández

Flores, Treasurer President Universidad de Iberoamérica San José, Costa Rica

Federico Zaragoza, Substitute for Past-Chair President

College of Southern Nevada Las Vegas, Nev.

Ted Alejandre

Superintendent   San Bernardino County Schools San Bernadino, Calif.

Irma Becerra  President  Marymount University  Arlington, Va.

Adela de la Torre President San Diego State University San Diego, Calif.

Howard Gillman

Chancellor University of California, Irvine Irvine, Calif.

Reyes González  President  St. Augustine College  Chicago, Ill.

Devorah Lieberman Former President University of La Verne La Verne, California

Cesar Maldonado Chancellor Houston Community College Houston, Texas

Gary May

Chancellor University of California, Davis Davis, Calif.

Margaret McMenamin President  Union College  Cranford, N.J.

Brad Mortensen President Weber State University Ogden, Utah

Greg Peterson President Chandler-Gilbert Community College

Chandler, Ariz.

Garnett S. Stokes President The University of New Mexico Albuquerque, N.M.

Luke Visconti Chairman and Founder  DiversityInc  West Palm Beach, Fla.

Antonio R. Flores, Ex-Officio President and CEO HACU

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.

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.

Writer Lupe Flores news@hacu.net

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities recently announced that it will celebrate the groundbreaking of its permanent headquarters in San Antonio, Texas, later this fall. We are excited about what promises to be a thriving center of Hispanic higher education success with multi-collaborative work areas, teaching environments, and outdoor green spaces serving HACU staff, visitors and the community.

The cover of our fall magazine features the latest cohort of HACU’s 2023-24 Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo, a program with proven success in channeling our best and brightest into the positions of higher education leadership. We also highlight more HACU news such as a new webinar series exclusively for our members in this issue as well. Our Member News section welcomes new member institutions, recently appointed presidents and chancellors, and lauds the accomplishments of colleges and universities dedicated to the success of Hispanic students. We look forward to having our members across the country join in the celebration of National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week, September 11-17, 2023.

A featured article is on the HACU On the Road events in Mexico City and Guadalajara, as well as the International Symposium and Executive Leadership Seminar. The final feature article highlights one of our newest partnerships with Dominion Energy to provide Hispanic students with opportunities to learn about a potential career path in a technologically advanced energy industry.

We are looking forward to our upcoming 37th Annual Conference that marks a return to Chicago, and includes established, longrunning events such as the 22nd Annual Latino Higher Education Leadership Institute, the Ninth PreK-12 Higher Education Collaboration Symposium, the 12th Annual Deans’ Forum on Hispanic Higher Education, as well as workshops, plenaries and luncheons where we celebrate the accomplishments of our honorees. Especially noteworthy are the Inaugural Women’s Leadership Symposium and the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute (Student Track), both sold out long before this issue went to press.

We hope to see you in Chicago for our Annual Conference in October!

Cordially,

Antonio R. Flores President and CEO

HACU to begin construction on new San Antonio headquarters

HACU holds Capital One HSI Immersion program for college students

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has begun construction on its new San Antonio headquarters, a 25,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility by Marmon Mok Architecture in partnership with Miro Rivera Architects, located on a 4.7-acre site in the city. The new headquarters will accommodate up to 100 employees on two floors and house eight institutes.

“We are very excited to soon have a groundbreaking ceremony for our first from-the-ground-up headquarters,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “The new headquarters will allow us to expand our programs and services that benefit the city as well as national and international higher education.”

The building design represents Hispanic culture and reflects trends in the Latin regions of the world. Building features include multi-departmental spaces, collaborative workspaces and teaching environments. Outdoor green spaces on the campus will be functional and serve as gathering spaces for employees and the community. Construction is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2025.

UTSA Financial Literacy Workshop for college students

HACU and Capital One brought college students from across the U.S. to the four-day Hispanic-Serving Institutions Immersion Program at the Plano, Texas Capital One campus, July 24–27, 2023.

Capital One leaders held sessions on career advancement skills in both one-on-one and group settings, along with presentations from business and corporate professionals.

Students experienced networking events, interview presentations that included headshots, mock interviews, resume reviews, LinkedIn profile reviews, and an icebreaker and “elevator pitch” activities. Other sessions covered Capital One careers, workplace technology, career development and mentoring business resource groups, financial literacy, and competitive group presentations. Students were eligible for a $1,000 stipend to support academic studies on completion of the four-day program.

Students from the following HACU-member institutions attended:

Arizona State University

Borough of Manhattan Community College, CUNY

California State University, Fresno

California State University, Fullerton

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Los Angeles

Florida International University

LaGuardia Community College, CUNY

Laredo College

Marymount University

Michigan State University

HACU held a financial proficiency and career exploration workshop, ¡Finanzas y Futuro!, for approximately 130 students from the University of Texas at San Antonio on July 27, 2023, part of the Hispanic Financial Education and Competencies Program. The program is made possible by a grant from USAA to help both high school and college students maneuver the complexities of financial assistance, credit worthiness, and long-term strategies to ensure their financial independence and well-being.

Speakers included Oralia De los Reyes, HACU assistant vice president for programs and services, and Norma Guerra, associate vice provost for faculty diversity and inclusion at UTSA. Students participated in activities focused on career preparation, resume building, interview skills, mastering personal finance, and tax filing. Area college and high school educators and administrators observed in order to replicate activities on their own campuses.

Oxnard College

Paul Quinn College

Saint Xavier University

San Diego Mesa College

Southwestern University

Texas State University

The University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at El Paso

Union College

Universidad del Sagrado Corazon

University of California, Los Angeles

University of Central Florida

University of Colorado Denver

University of Miami

University of Puerto Rico – Mayagüez

Valencia College

HACU hosts virtual Emerging Leaders’ Summit with New Jersey City University

HACU joins in Farm Bill Roundtable discussion with Congressional Hispanic Caucus

HACU hosted a virtual Emerging Leaders’ Summit on preparing for internships and career opportunities in various fields in partnership with New Jersey City University, and brought together students from 51 colleges and universities online with professionals and corporate representatives for a one-day event on June 15, 2023. Students participating represented the following majors: STEM (including computer science, information technology, management information systems, engineering, etc.), finance, accounting, business, communications, and marketing fields. Corporate partners that held career preparation workshops and panels included: Fidelity Investments, Nordstrom, Dominion Energy and Thermo Fisher Scientific.

HACU Signs MOU in Salamanca, Spain

HACU joined the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in a roundtable discussion on June 22, 2023, to discuss issues related to the reauthorization of the Farm Bill and how it affects Hispanic-Serving Institution funding, food and nutrition, diversity in farming, rural broadband, supply chains and other issues and concerns affecting the nation’s Hispanic community. HACU is requesting increased authorized funding levels for HSIs and Hispanic-Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities grant programs to reflect their rapid institutional growth and chronic underfunding.

Participating were Xiomara Santos, HACU’s director of government relations, along with representatives from two HACU-member institutions, Rolando A. Flores Galarza, Ph.D., New Mexico State University’s dean and chief administrative officer, and Zoé Colón De Santana, the University of Central Florida’s director of community initiatives. Xochitl Torres Small, the Department of Agriculture’s under secretary for rural development, and Amanda Miller, the Department of Education’s deputy assistant secretary for higher education programs, also attended. Other stakeholders in attendance included for-profit and non-profit organizations as well as policy groups and union representatives.

HACU webinar series for 2023

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, and Universidad de Salamanca Rector Ricardo Rivero Ortega signed a memorandum of understanding on behalf of HACU, the university and regional higher education institutions on June 7, 2023. The MOU formally establishes asynchronous online courses offered by the University of Salamanca for faculty and prospective Spanish educators at HACU-member institutions and Spanish proficiency certificates for students at member institutions. Directora de Salamanca ciudad del Español Carmen Ballesteros spoke on behalf of the city of Salamanca acknowledging the city’s hosting of HACU’s International Conference on June 3-5, 2024. The MOU signing took place on the third day of the education tour taking place in Spain from June 5-9, 2023.

HACU recently launched its 2023 webinar series for HACUmember institutions. Past webinar topics have included Intentional Journey to Achieving and Sustaining an HSI Designation; Finding Best Practices at HSIs for Increasing Hispanic STEM Degrees; Telling the story: Asset Mapping Strategies to become an Emerging HSI; Supporting HSI STEM Education through the National Science Foundation; Alignment and Intentionality: Lessons from a Diverse Faculty Recruitment Program; and University Perspectives in Addressing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

HACU signs MOU with SEPIE

HACU testifies at Congressional Briefing on the Farm Bill reauthorization

HACU and Internationalization of Spanish Higher Education (Servicio Español para la Internacionalización de la Educación, or SEPIE) signed a memorandum of understanding on June 5, 2023, in Madrid, Spain. HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and SEPIE Director Alfonso Gentil Alvarez-Ossorio signed the MOU on behalf of the two organizations.

The MOU signing took place on the first day of an education tour in Spain from June 5-9, 2023, through a partnership with SEPIE and the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (Instituto Español de Comercio Exterior), providing approximately 16 faculty, staff and administrators from HACU-member institutions an opportunity to explore collaborations for adding international components to programs of study.

HACU president and CEO speaks at UTRGV Thrive Summit

HACU was part of a congressional briefing on the reauthorization of the federal Farm Bill during the Minority Serving Institution Agriculture Colleges and Universities Congressional Briefing on May 31, 2023, advocating for funding for agricultural-related educational programs and opportunities for Hispanic students. Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet (an MSI, HispanicServing Institution, and Hispanic-Serving Agricultural College University) also gave testimony.

The virtual testimony from HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores stated that HSIs collectively educate over 5 million students and approximately 8,750 students per institution, and that the 206 HSACUs educate over 1.8 million students annually. HACU has urged Congress to equitably strengthen the capacity of HSIs and HSACUs to implement higher education programs that attract, retain, and graduate students qualified to enter a competitive workforce in the nation’s food, agriculture, natural resources and human sciences fields. HACU also proposes the creation of a new HSACUs Land Grant category of institutions in the reauthorized Farm Bill of 2023.

HACU accepting applications for scholarships for 2023-24 HACU Scholarship Program

HACU is accepting applications from college students for partner scholarships. Students at HACU-member institutions can apply for:

• One of the five Denny’s Hungry for Education Scholarships in the amount of $2,000. Deadline to apply is Nov. 1, 2023.

HACU’s President and CEO Antonio R. Flores gave a keynote speech at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 2023 THRIVE Annual Summit on May 19, 2023, in South Padre Island, Texas. The Summit is an opportunity for resource sharing, knowledge production, and networking, with attendees made up of department chairs, Latinas in higher education and in STEM organizations, Hispanic-Serving Institutions networks, and other change agents.

The NSF ADVANCE-funded THRIVE Partnership supports and facilitates department chairs at HSIs and their change teams in developing and enacting a plan that promotes a psychologically healthy workplace where faculty, especially Latina/x faculty, thrive.

• One of four USTA Future Leaders in Sport Scholarships in the amount of $5,000. Deadline to apply is Nov. 1, 2023.

• One of six Palo Alto Networks Cyber Scholars Program Scholarships in the amount of $5,000. Deadline to apply is Nov. 1, 2023.

• On of five LanguageCert International Student Scholarships in the amount of $5,000. Deadline to apply is March 31, 2024.

For eligibility requirements and to apply visit hacu.net/scholarships

For any questions, please contact scholarships@hacu.net.

HACU National Internship Program summer 2023 interns

The following agencies in the Washington, D.C., metro area and field offices throughout the country are among those providing these internship opportunities to students:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Export-Import bank of the U.S.

Farm Credit Association

Food and Drug Administration

Library of Congress

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

National Institute of Health

National Science Foundation

Office of the Controller of the Currency

HACU’s National Internship Program welcomed over 300 summer interns with a hybrid orientation on June 1, 2023, for college students serving hybrid internships. A welcome was given by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, followed by remarks from the HNIP staff.

Prior to the start of the summer session, a panel presentation on May 31 featured representatives from the National Association of Hispanic Federal Executives who shared their experiences working in government and held group discussions with summer interns.

At the end of the summer session, HACU bid farewell to its 2023 summer interns with a virtual ceremony held on Aug. 10, 2023.

Diana Vasquez, HACU National Internship Program executive director, congratulated the interns on the completion of the summer session, followed by keynote speaker Rosa Garay, medical interpreter for the National Institutes of Health. USDA intern Jordan Mendoza and National Science Foundation intern Jackie Carillo shared their experiences during the summer session.

Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation

U.S. Agency for International Development

U.S. Department of Agriculture

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

U.S. Forest Service

U.S. Department of the Treasury

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

HACU

National Internship Program

accepting applications for spring 2024 session

HACU is accepting applications from college students for the spring 2024 session of the HACU National Internship Program. The spring internship program dates are Jan. 8 –April 19, 2024. The online application deadline is Oct. 16, 2023. Apply at hacu.net/hnip

The spring internship session is for 15-weeks with placement at federal agencies in Washington, D.C., field offices nationwide or remotely.

Internships are available to currently enrolled undergraduate, graduate and recently graduated students in any major. Students must have completed their first year of undergraduate studies. Many positions require U.S. citizenship, per security clearance requirements but students legally authorized to work in the U.S., DACA recipients and permanent residents are still encouraged to apply.

Michelle Torres Ruiz USDA, Foreign Agriculture Service, Business Operations Management Analyst

If I were to describe my internship initially, I would compare it to riding the Knott's Berry Farm roller coaster Ghost Rider. It began with a gentle, meandering descent down a small hill, followed by a slow ascent that seemed to drag on indefinitely. The moment I received the call informing me that I would be leaving in less than a week for my in-person internship, everything accelerated rapidly, plunging me into an exhilarating ride I had never envisioned. Life hit me with full force, and a mix of excitement and fear overwhelmed me. I have never been away from home for such an extended period of time, and the challenge of being away for three months was something I had to swiftly overcome.

During the first week of my internship, I was warmly greeted by a friendly staff. They gave me a tour of the USDA building, but it quickly became apparent that I was grappling with impostor syndrome. Observing the other interns at USDA, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I didn’t belong, that I wasn’t competent enough, and that my degree fell short. I felt completely out of place. Why would they choose me when they had other interns with superior qualifications and clear career goals? To ease our transition, USDA organized a welcoming event for all interns and recent graduates. They introduced us to the various divisions that make up the Foreign Agriculture Service. As a member of the Business Operations division, I have gained invaluable knowledge. Our division handles financial services and mission support, encompassing tasks such as contract evaluation, budget management, and travel coordination. I was astounded by the abundance of acronyms used within the USDA; it was a challenge to comprehend each person’s discussions during meetings.

Contributing to a project and being a part of business operations gave me a sense of accomplishment. My supervisor informed me what I was to work on hadn’t been updated since October 2022, but I managed to complete it within two weeks. Through this experience, I have acquired a profound understanding of the USDA’s impact, not only within our community but also on supporting farmers and individuals worldwide. It’s truly gratifying to know that every morsel of food touched by the Foreign Agriculture Service is a result of their dedicated efforts.

It’s been a full month since I arrived in D.C., and I can honestly say it has had a positive impact on me. I feel more self-assured in what I’m doing and how I carry myself. I’m really excited to see what the rest of the internship has in store for me.

Welcome New Members (As of 8/11/23)

Hispanic-Serving Institutions

Atlantic Cape Community College (N.J.)

Chabot-Las Positas Community College District (Calif.)

College of Marin (Calif.)

Dominican University of California (Calif.)

Jessup University (Calif.)

Johnson University Florida (Fla.)

Lee College (Texas)

Palo Verde College (Calif.)

Paradise Valley Community College (Ariz.)

Reading Area Community College (Pa.)

Santa Barbara City College (Calif.)

Associate Member Institution

Claremont McKenna College (Calif.)

Green River College (Wash.)

Highline College (Wash.)

Holy Cross College (Ind.)

Oregon Coast Community College (Ore.)

Rockford University (Ill.)

Southern Oregon University (Ore.)

St. John’s College, Santa Fe Campus (N.M.)

Valparaiso University (Ind.)

Partner Institution

Calvin University (Mich.)

Grinnell College (Iowa)

Marian University (Wis.)

Roanoke College (Va.)

Siena Heights University (Mich.)

Hispanic-Serving School District

Coachella Valley Unified School District (Calif.)

International Member Institutions

Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (Spain)

Faculty/Staff Affiliates

Emily G. Esparza, National University (Calif.)

Dr. Rosa Heckenberg, California State University, Los Angeles (Calif.)

Dr. Maria E. Martinez, Texas A&M University-Kingsville (Texas)

Dr. Kathryn Rogalski, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (Wis.)

Monica Sanchez, Tucson Unified School District (Ariz.)

Janine Sohler, Western New Mexico University (N.M.)

Vanessa Varela Morales, Mount Mary University (Wis.)

Student Affiliates

Jeanette Bernardino, California State University, Long Beach (Calif.)

Cynthia Garcia, The University of New Mexico (N.M.)

Ana Garza, University of North Texas (Texas)

Junely Merwin, California State University, Fullerton (Calif.)

Brenda Milton, California State University, Dominguez Hills (Calif.)

Danilo Navarro, University of Miami (Fla.)

Jose Luis Perez, Jr., The University of Texas at Austin (Texas)

Lucia Piñeros-Parra DiNapoli, University of Pennsylvania (Pa.)

Monica Rincon Martinez, University of California, Irvine (Calif.)

Javier Santillan, University of North Texas (Texas)

Tanisha J. Villanueva, Bergen Community College (N.J.)

Julio Zelaya, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Mich.)

National Congressional Hearing on University Research under the Farm Bill

Agricultural experts at HACU-member institutions were among those testifying at a June 14 Congressional Hearing on the importance of agriculture research at Hispanic-Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities and Land-grant Universities under the federal Farm Bill. Kathryn Uhrich, Ph.D., dean of HACU-member and HispanicServing Institution University of California Riverside’s college of natural & agricultural sciences, and Clint Krehbiel, Ph.D., dean of the Davis College of agricultural sciences and natural resources at Texas Tech University, testified during an in-person congressional hearing.

The Farm Bill is an omnibus, multiyear law that governs an array of agricultural and food programs, developed, enacted and overseen by Congress. The reauthorization provides an opportunity for policymakers to comprehensively address agricultural and food issues by strengthening HSIs and HSACUs with programs that attract, retain and graduate students qualified to enter the food, agriculture, natural resources and human sciences fields.

HACU-member institutions receive NextGen program funding

HACU-member institutions were among those awarded funding “From Learning to Leading: Cultivating the Next Generation of Diverse Food and Agriculture Professionals” or NextGen program funding, a $262.5 million investment in institutions of higher education supporting student scholarship projects, experiential learning projects, and outreach and engagement projects, each funded for a period of five years. Seventeen HACUmember institutions listed below were among the 33 projects receiving funding:

Adams State University

Barry University

Bergen Community College

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

California State University, Monterey Bay

College of Southern Idaho

Hartnell Community College

LaGuardia Community College, CUNY

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

Our Lady of the Lake University

San Diego State University

St. Edward’s University

Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Texas State University

The University of Texas at San Antonio

University of California, Santa Cruz

University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras

USDA Selects 2023 Class of E. Kika De La Garza Fellows

HACU applauds the selection of 30 faculty and staff from HispanicServing Institutions around the nation as the 2023 class of E. Kika De La Garza Fellows to Washington, D.C. to learn more about the U.S. Department of Agriculture services and programs that will benefit them and their students. This effort is part of USDA’s commitment to advance equity in professional development opportunities as well as build a more diverse pipeline into public service and the agricultural sector.

The 2023 E. Kika De La Garza Education Fellows are:

• Blanca Acevedo, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, Ill.

• Ryan Amaral, Modesto Junior College, Modesto, Calif.

• Tatevik Avetisyan, California State University, Chico, Chico, Calif.

• Maruthi Sridhar Balaji Bhaskar, Florida International University, Miami, Fla.

• Michelle Batchu, St. Francis College, Brooklyn Heights, N.Y.

• Baleshka Brenes, University of Arizona, Tucson, Ariz.

• Cosmo Costales, College of the Sequoias, Visalia, Calif.

• Dawn Cummings, Community College of Denver, Denver, Colo.

• Michelle Hasendonckx, California State University, Channel Islands, Camarillo, Calif.

• S. Otto Khera, Western New Mexico University, Silver City, N.M.

• Maj-Britt Kimm, California State University, Monterey Bay, Seaside, Calif.

• Xiangping Liu, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas

• Julie Ann Lucca, Los Medanos College, Pittsburg, Calif.

• Benjamin C. Miele, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas

• Syndia A. Nazario-Cardona, Universidad Ana G. Mendez, San Juan, Puerto Rico

• Sierra Netz, Central New Mexico Community College, Albuquerque, N.M.

• Circe Niezen, Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, Hato Ray, Puerto Rico

• Vanessa Oddo, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Ill.

• Jhones Sarturi, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas

• Edward D. Vargas, Arizona State University, Tempe, Ariz.

• Maureen Victoria, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas

• Nancy Vu, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, Calif.

The 2023 E. Kika De La Garza Science Fellows are:

• Pride Abongwa, Texas A&M University, San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas

• Felipe Aburto, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas

• Kalynn Baldock, Eastern New Mexico University, N.M.

• Samuel Discua Duarte, University of Arizona, Yuma, Ariz.

• Isolde Francis, California State University, Bakersfield, Bakersfield, Texas

• Kalyani Maitra, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, Calif.

• Adela Olivia Chavez, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas

• Elizabeth Padilla-Crespo, Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

HACU leaders appointed to Academic Council to advise Department of Homeland Security

HACU and three member institutions are among the new appointments by U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas to the Homeland Security Academic Partnership Council.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, San Diego State University President and HACU Governing Board Member Adela de la Torre, Northwestern University President Michael Schill, and Carnegie Mellon University President Farnam Jahanian, were among the leaders appointed for a two-year term. The council is designed to provide strategic and actionable recommendations to the secretary on campus safety and security, improved coordination, research priorities, hiring and more.

The newly appointed council members makeup a diverse group representing higher education associations, campus law enforcement, two- and four-year colleges and universities, HispanicServing Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges, and Asian American and Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions.

California

Mildred Garcia appointed as 11th CSU chancellor

Mildred Garcia, Ed.D., former president of Cal State Dominguez Hills and Cal State Fullerton is the first Latina to serve as chancellor of the 23-campus California State University system. Garcia was also the first Latina to lead a Cal State University in the history of the system. Prior to her appointment as chancellor, Garcia was serving as president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, was previously president of Berkeley College, and held academic and senior positions at other universities including Arizona State University, Montclair State University, Pennsylvania State University and Columbia University. She was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on several advisory boards, including the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, and by the U.S. Secretary of Education to serve on the Committee on Measures of Student Success. She earned a bachelor’s from Bernard M. Baruch College, a master’s from New York University, and a master’s and doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Fullerton College names Cynthia

Olivo president

Cynthia Olivo, Ph.D., has been named president of Fullerton College, bringing 27 years of higher education experience, with 22 years as an administrator. She previously served as assistant superintendent/vice president of student services at Pasadena City College, as well as associate vice president of student affairs and associate dean of counseling. Olivo served as associate director of admissions and student recruitment at California State University, San Bernardino, and is an adjunct faculty member at University of Southern California and Pasadena City College. She serves as president of the Chief Student Services Officer Association; president of the California Community College Organizacion de Latinx Guidance, Empowerment & Advocacy for Success; and is a founding member of The Coalition, an organization including A2MEND and APAHE. Olivo earned a bachelor’s and master’s from California State University, San Bernardino, and a doctorate from Claremont Graduate University.

Angelica Garcia to lead Sonoma County Junior College District

Angelica Garcia, Ed.D., has been appointed Superintendent/President of Sonoma County Junior College District. She previously served as president of Berkeley City College, leading the college through accreditation and fiscal stabilization efforts, and as vice president of student services at Skyline College, implementing Guided Pathways, the Promise Scholars Program, the student equity & support programs division, and the Equity Institute. She is a fellow with the Aspen Institute for New Presidents, the National Community College Hispanic Council, the UC Davis Wheelhouse Institute, is a former member of the statewide CCC Guided Pathways Advisory Committee, is a founding board member of COLEGAS, and serves on the Puente Project Advisory Board. Garcia was appointed to President Biden’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, which provides cultural policy recommendations to the President and the heads of the National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, and Institute of Museum and Library Services. She earned a bachelor’s from Saint Mary’s College of California, a master’s from San Diego State University and a doctorate from San Francisco State University.

Illinois Aurora University appoints first Latina as president

Susana Rivera-Mills, Ph.D., has been appointed president of Aurora University in Aurora, Ill., the first Latina to lead Aurora University since its founding. She previously served as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Ball State University, overseeing all aspects of the academic mission, including advancing diversity, equity and inclusion, launching and supporting the Muncie Community Schools partnership, and developing and implementing Ball State’s Lifetime Learning initiative. At Oregon State University she served as department chair, executive associate dean, dean of undergraduate studies, and vice provost of academic programs and learning innovation, as well as the interim director and founder for the Center for Latino/a Studies and Engagement, and the interim director for student success and diversity advancement. Rivera-Mills earned a bachelor’s and master’s from the University of Iowa, and a doctorate from the University of New Mexico.

Massachusetts Danielle Holley named president of Mount Holyoke College

Danielle R. Holley, J.D., has been named president of Mount Holyoke College, the first permanent Black president in the College’s 186year history. Prior to her appointment, Holley served as dean of the school of law at Howard University, where she introduced a six-year bachelor’s/juris doctorate program, experiential learning and career preparation initiatives with World Bank, Microsoft, Amazon Studios and more. She currently serves as the co-chair of the Board of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, and has served on the board of the Law School Admission Council, as well as on the board of the Howard University Middle School of Math and Science. She is a moderator for the Aspen Institute, a Liberty Fellow through the Aspen Global Leadership Network and a fellow with the American Council on Education. Holley earned a bachelor’s from Yale University and a juris doctorate from Harvard Law School.

New Jersey Caldwell University appoints

Jeffrey Senese as president

Jeffrey Senese, Ph.D., was named president of Caldwell University after recently serving as president of Saint Leo University in Florida. He also served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at several institutions, including Saint Leo, Cardinal Stritch University and Johnson & Wales University, and was a faculty member at Indiana University and the University of Baltimore for over a decade. Senese has engaged in extensive research with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Defense on use of force and other topics. He earned a bachelor’s from the Pennsylvania State University, a master’s from Indiana State University, and a doctorate from Michigan State University.

Texas Dallas College awarded grants for advanced tech training

Dallas College in partnership with Gainwell Technologies were awarded grants totaling $1,045,269 from The Texas Workforce Commission and the U.S. Department of Labor to provide advanced training through the College for more than 500 Gainwell Technologies employees.

The 16,000 hours of advanced technology training is IT-driven and focused on developing skilled, technical talent. Courses range from big data engineering and Amazon web services to agile leadership and data analytics. Other training includes Python for data analytics, Tableau, Shift Left Thinking, project management, certified scrum master, certified agile leadership, certified business analysis professional and International Software Testing Qualifications Board certified tester training.

Stephen Head named chancellor emeritus of Lone Star College

The Lone Star College Board of Trustees awarded the title of Chancellor Emeritus to Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., Lone Star College chancellor, recognizing his significant contributions to the college through long and distinguished service in administration, teaching and support. Head’s career began as a financial aid director at then North Harris County Community College, joining LSC in 1984 and retires with over 30 years of service at the college, including as president at three campuses and as executive vice chancellor.

He has taught history undergraduate and graduate classes for LSC and university partners, and graduate classes in community college leadership and higher education finance. Head has served on the board of five area chambers of commerce and three economic development districts or councils, and is active in community college issues through his participation and leadership roles in several local, state and national organizations. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s from Lamar University, and a doctorate from Texas Tech University.

OLLU establishes endowed fund scholarship for veterans in STEM

Our Lady of the Lake University has established a $250,000 endowed fund scholarship via a donation from Richard Wade to benefit student veterans pursuing STEM degrees in biology, chemistry, environmental science and sustainability and mathematics. The Richard L. (Dick) Wade Veterans Endowed Scholarship in STEM will be awarded to the first recipient in fall 2023.

STEM undergraduates with prior military service are eligible for this annually awarded scholarship supporting the recipient through the course of a four-year degree. Wade attended the University of Texas at Austin as a first-generation college student on a Naval ROTC scholarship, graduating in 1970.

Ochoa to lead Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Salvador Hector Ochoa, Ph.D., has been appointed president of Texas A&M UniversitySan Antonio, previously serving as provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at San Diego State University. Ochoa’s prior experience includes serving as dean of the college of education at the University of New Mexico and The University of Texas-Pan American. He serves on various editorial boards of school psychology and special education journals, and is an associate editor for the American Educational Research Journal: Teaching, Learning and Human Development. Ochoa is a recipient of the Teaching Excellence Award from the Texas A&M Center for Teaching Excellence, the Texas A&M University College of Education and Human Development Outstanding Alumni Award, and the Distinguished Achievement for Teaching Award from the Association of Former Students. He earned a bachelor’s from St. Edward’s University, a master’s from Pan American University, and a doctorate from Texas A&M University.

Educational leaders join HACU on visit to Spain

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores visited universities in Madrid, Andalusia, Valencia and Castile in Spain on June 5-9, 2023, through a partnership with the Internationalization of Spanish Higher Education (Servicio Español para la Internacionalización de la Educación) and the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (Instituto Español de Comercio Exterior).

The trip included the signing of a memorandum of understanding between HACU, the University of Salamanca and the City of Salamanca on June 7, 2023, in Salamanca, Spain, on the University of Salamanca campus. The MOU formally established asynchronous online courses offered by the University of Salamanca for faculty and prospective Spanish educators at HACU-member institutions and Spanish proficiency certificates for students at member institutions. The city will be hosting HACU’s International Conference on June 3-5, 2024.

HACU staff met with faculty members from each one of the universities in the different regions of Spain to discuss collaborations in the study of Spanish, dual degrees, and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL). Approximately 16 faculty, staff and administrators from the following HACU-member institutions were part of the academic trip that included visits to the University of Córdoba, the University of Salamanca and the University CEU Cardenal Herrera:

Alamo Colleges District

Chapman University

Houston Community College - Central

Institute for Latin American and Iberian Studies - The Catholic University of America

Montclair State University

Northern Illinois University

St. Augustine College

Texas State University

The University of Arizona

Universidad de Puerto Rico, Río Piedras

University at Albany, State University of New York

University of Houston

Wichita State University

SEPIE Director Alfonso Gentil Álvarez-Ossorio, HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, ICEX Director General Elisa Carbonell Martín, Minister for Universities of U.S. Embassy in Spain Joan Subirats Humet, and Public Diplomacy Officer for U.S. Embassy in Spain Justen Thomas.

Attendees of the Visit to Spain trip of HACU delegation of universities at ICEX headquarters in Madrid, Spain.

U.S. Ambassador to Spain Julissa Reynoso addresses HACU delegation of universities in Madrid, Spain.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and U.S. Ambassador to Spain Julissa Reynoso with the HACU delegation of universities.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores gives presentation in Madrid, Spain. HACU delegation of universities at the Universidad de Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain.

HACU delegation of universities at the Universidad de Córdoba in Cordoba, Spain. HACU delegation of universities at the University CEU Cardenal Herrera in Valencia, Spain.

2023-24 Fellows of HACU’s Leadership Academy/ La Academia de Liderazgo announced

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is pleased to announce the 50 fellows who will be part of the fifth cohort of its Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo. The program is designed to increase diverse representation in executive and seniorlevel positions in higher education.

Fellows participate in an array of leadership development activities preparing them for leadership roles in the full spectrum of institutions of higher learning, with an emphasis on HispanicServing Institutions and Emerging HSIs.

The one-year fellowship program includes webinars and three seminars. The first seminar will be held in October 2023 in conjunction with HACU’s 37th Annual Conference in Chicago, Illinois. The second seminar will be held in Washington, D.C., in April 2024, at HACU’s National Capitol Forum. The third seminar will take place in Salamanca, Spain in the summer of 2024, at HACU’s International Conference.

The Leadership Academy faculty consists of current and former presidents, chancellors and senior administrators and brings over 100 years of combined experience in serving various sectors of higher education, including private/public universities, community colleges and faith-based institutions. Mentorship with a university president or senior-level administrator is a key component, as well as the development of a special project designed to have an impact at the Fellow’s current institution.

Special thanks to Capital One and American Federation of Teachers (AFT) for their support in providing fellowships to selected recipients.

The Fellows and their home institutions are:

Marvin Adames, J.D., Kean University

Reyna M. Anaya, Ph.D., Community College of Aurora

Laura Cantú, Ed.D., Los Angeles Mission College

*Magda J. Castineyra, Miami Dade College

Sonya Castro-Quirino, D.Bioethics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Felecía Caton García, Ph.D., Central New Mexico Community College

*Claudia Catota, J.D., California State University, Bakersfield

Minerva Cordero, Ph.D., University of Texas at Arlington

Priscella Correa, Ph.D., West Texas A&M University

Elizabeth Babcock Depew, Purdue University Northwest

**Amy Díaz, Indiana University Northwest

Edelmiro F. Escamilla, Ph.D., Texas A&M University-Higher Education Center

McAllen

Pablo I. Fabián, J.D., National University

Juan Carlos Garcia, Dallas College

Valeria García, Ph.D., University of South Florida

Yessika García-Guzmán, Ph.D., Bergen Community College

María I. Gutiérrez, Malcolm X College, City Colleges of Chicago

Mary G. Hernández, University of Texas at San Antonio

Hilda Ladner, Northern Arizona University

Javier E. Lozano, Ph.D., University of the Incarnate Word

Marbeya Makekau, Ed.D., California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Alberto Maldonado, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee

Jacob-Aidan Isaiah Martínez, Ed.D., San Antonio College

Sandra Martínez, Moreno Valley College

Larissa Mercado-López, Ph.D., California State University, Fresno

Barbara Meschino, Malcolm X College, City Colleges of Chicago

Daniel Montoya, California State University, Long Beach

Cyndia Morales Muñiz, Ed.D., University of Central Florida

Rudy M. Ortiz, Ph.D., University of California, Merced

Norma Pastor, M.D., D.H.S., Keiser University-Latin Division

Esther Pla-Cázares, College of Southern Nevada

Yeurys Pujols, Ed.D., Hudson County Community College

Freddy N. Ramírez, Ed.D., MiraCosta College

*Marshall Roache, Chemeketa Community College

*Alma D. Rodríguez, Ed.D., The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Alyssa Rodríguez, Calumet College of St. Joseph

Giovanni D. Rodríguez, Mt. San Antonio College

*Rodney H. Rodríguez, Ph.D., South Texas College

R. Anthony Rolle, Ph.D., University of South Florida

*John D. Sánchez, Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Erica T. Sosa, Ph.D., University of Texas at San Antonio

Dina M. Sosa-Hegarty, Ed.D., Dallas College

Monze M. Stark-Magaña, College of Southern Idaho

Vanessa C. Torres, Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Emilio C. Ulloa, Ph.D., San Diego State University

Dominique Vargas, Western Oregon University

Alberto "Beto" Vásquez, Ed.D., University of California, San Diego

*Abraham Villarreal, Cochise College

Ebonée Williams, Ph.D., University of California, Santa Cruz

*George A. Williams, Jr., Ph.D., Our Lady of the Lake University

* Capital One Fellowship recipient

** American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Fellowship recipient

More information about the HACU Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo is available at www.hacu.net/leadershipacademy

Marvin Adames, J.D., serves as the assistant vice president for student retention and dean of students at Kean University. In his role, he responds to student concerns and issues, as well as plans various retention initiatives and events for student cohorts. He also oversees the office of student retention & educational innovation; the center for veteran student success; the office of financial aid; as well as the office of scholarship services. He earned a bachelor’s degree from The College of New Jersey and a juris doctorate from Rutgers Law School.

Reyna M. Anaya, Ph.D., serves as the senior student affairs officer and dean of student success at the Community College of Aurora, providing leadership for student support services across the college and Colorado Community College System. Anaya currently serves on committees for the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators’ Community College Division, served as an equity consultant for the Racial Equity for Adult Credentials in Higher Education Collaborative, as board member for the Association of Student Conduct Administration, and as president for the Colorado Coalition for the Educational Advancement of Latinxs. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University, and a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Northern Colorado.

Laura Cantu, Ed.D., has over 26 years of experience in higher education and workforce development, and currently serves as vice president of academic affairs at Los Angeles Mission College. She is responsible for the college’s academic programs and initiatives, as well as leading efforts to increase student success through new and innovative education and workforce development programs that meet the needs of the local economy. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of California Berkeley, and a doctorate from the University of California Los Angeles.

Magda Castineyra, Ed.M., is the interim dean of the honors college at Miami Dade College with over 20 years of experience in assisting families and students access higher education. She has traveled domestically and internationally as an admission professional, served as a liaison with public school systems, managed scholarship programs for high achieving students, and coordinated the orientation and advising of first-time-in-college students. Castineyra has presented at conferences and meetings for the National Association of College Admissions, the Southern Association of College Admissions, the National Association of Catholic College Admissions, and the National Collegiate Honors College Council. She earned a bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas University, and a doctorate from Harvard University.

Sonya Castro-Quirino, D. Bioethics, currently serves as the vice president, chief compliance and privacy officer for Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and has over 15 years of compliance experience in government, private and public healthcare. She has worked with various government agencies and healthcare providers on healthcare fraud and abuse, on regulatory issues for the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, developed and implemented an audit and compliance program for Wal-Mart pharmacies, and served as a compliance officer for a non-profit healthcare provider and a public academic medical institution. Castro-Quirino earned a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, a master’s degree from Texas Tech University, and a doctorate from Loyola University Chicago.

Felecía Caton García, Ph.D., is executive director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Central New Mexico Community College. Prior to her current role, Caton Garcia served as faculty in American studies, Chicanx studies, creative writing, and English for over twenty years. She develops and facilitates learning opportunities related to issues of equity, pedagogy and creativity. She writes poetry and fiction, and her full-length collection of poetry, "Say That," is published by the University of New Mexico Press. Caton Garcia earned a bachelor’s degree from Colorado College, a master’s degree from the University of Oregon and a doctorate from the University of New Mexico.

Claudia Catota, J.D., is the chief diversity officer and special assistant to the president at California State University, Bakersfield. She serves on the President’s Cabinet and provides strategic direction to diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Catota led the establishment of a Dreamers Resource Center to serve undocumented students, and ratification of the university’s strategic plan. She earned a bachelor’s degree from University of California, Los Angeles, a master’s degree from California State University, Los Angeles, a juris doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and is currently a doctoral candidate at the Johns Hopkins University School of Education.

Minerva Cordero, Ph.D., is interim vice provost for faculty affairs at the University of Texas, Arlington, where she also serves as professor of mathematics and senior associate dean of science. She received the Great Minds in STEM Award in Education, was named a Mujer Legendaria de Ford in 2016, was selected as an ambassador for the American Association for the Advancement of Science IF/THEN Ambassadors Program in 2019, and received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring in 2022. Cordero earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Puerto Rico, a master’s degree from the University of California Berkeley, and a doctorate from the University of Iowa.

Priscella Correa, Ph.D., is assistant professor and Baptist community services professor in the college of nursing and health sciences at West Texas A&M University. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, the Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education, the National Association of Hispanic Nurses Association, the American Public Health Association, the Latino Caucus for Public Health, the Association of Community Health Nurse Educators, Los Barrios de Amarillo, and Project Safe Neighborhood.

Correa received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from West Texas A&M University, and her doctorate from the University of New Mexico.

Elizabeth Babcock Depew has 21 years of higher education experience including leadership roles in finance and administration, and currently serves as vice chancellor for enrollment management and student affairs at Purdue University Northwest. She has worked on initiatives that have bolstered enrollment and student resources by emphasizing underrepresented and first-generation students’ support, expansion of scholarship opportunities, and strategic partnerships with community colleges. Under her guidance, PNW’s Hispanic undergraduate student population exceeded 25%, and she leads the process for Hispanic-Serving Institution designation. Depew is a firstgeneration college graduate and earned a bachelor’s and master’s from Purdue University Northwest and is a doctoral candidate at Northern Illinois University.

Amy Díaz is the chief of staff and member of the Chancellor’s Cabinet at Indiana University Northwest, facilitating planning and implementation of strategic initiatives, and enhancing collaboration and communication with internal and external stakeholders. Díaz was a 2019 Multicultural Leadership Academy Fellow with the Latino Policy Forum. She received her bachelor’s degree from DePaul University and is currently pursuing a doctorate from New York University.

Edelmiro F. Escamilla, Ph.D., is an associate instructional professor in the construction science department at Texas A&M University, and the program coordinator for the construction science program at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen, where he also serves as a fellow to both the Center for Heritage Conservation and Center for Housing and Urban Development. He is the creator and director of the summer career exploration program Construction Academies to increase minority representation in the construction industry. Escamilla is a first-generation college graduate, earning bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees from Texas A&M University.

Pablo Fabian, J.D., serves as in-house counsel to National University, providing guidance and support on matters ranging from regulatory policy review and development, employment law and compliance, and provides updates to the board of trustees while reporting directly to the president. He works closely with the executive team providing advice and counsel. Prior to National University, he was a shareholder at a general litigation firm handling business litigation, labor law and matters of education law. He earned a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University and his juris doctorate from Thomas Jefferson School of Law.

Juan Carlos García serves as the chief of staff for Dallas College working with functional area leaders to streamline procedures and enhance collaboration and communication college wide and throughout Dallas County with community partners. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree from the University of North Texas at Dallas.

Valeria Garcia, Ph.D., is the associate vice president of decision support at the University of South Florida, overseeing the development and implementation of data-driven strategies to support institutional effectiveness, and was recently appointed co-chair of the Advancing Latinos Access and Success Presidential Task Force at the university. She began her career as a special needs educator teaching at schools with underrepresented populations, then served as the fiscal agent for the College Reach-Out Program. Garcia is a member of the Association for Institutional Research, Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, and the EDUCAUSE Analytics Community. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, a master’s degree from Florida State University, and a doctorate from Barry University.

Yessika Garcia-Guzman, Ph.D., is the assistant vice president of financial aid and compliance at Bergen Community College, with a career in higher education spanning twenty-two years. Her current work is to improve the effectiveness of the financial aid process and streamline the system for the college community. Garcia-Guzman is responsible for compliance with state and federal requirements and advocates for student financial aid funding and access. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Fordham University, a master’s degree from Hunter College, a master’s degree from John Jay College, and a doctorate from Walden University.

María I. Gutiérrez is executive director for career and workforce at Malcolm X College with over 12 years of experience in higher education. She advocates for underrepresented students as a former DACA recipient and created the Non-Employment-Based Opportunities fellowship at Dominican University in 2021 for undocumented students providing funding for experiential learning opportunities. The initiative created inclusive professional development centered around student learning and mentorship, and the President’s Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, and TheDream.US were key to its success. She earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Northeastern Illinois University.

Mary G. Hernandez serves as senior associate vice president for administration and operations at the University of Texas at San Antonio, overseeing units like People Excellence, campus services, the business service center, risk and emergency management, and more. With over 25 years in higher education administration, Hernandez has driven multiple campus initiatives at UTSA including management of COVID-19 operational response and ensuring campus continuity. She previously served Texas Southmost College optimizing operations, and prior to that at Texas State Technical College leading projects standardizing procurement processes. Hernandez holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at Brownsville.

Hilda Ladner is associate vice president for student affairs at Northern Arizona University, where she leads the inclusive student mentoring and success team. Hilda previously served as the chief diversity officer at Pima Community College, and as assistant vice chancellor for student affairs and senior diversity officer at the University of Minnesota, Morris. Ladner earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Northern Arizona University.

Javier E. Lozano, Ph.D., has served the University of the Incarnate Word for 18 years, as a business instructor in the school of professional studies and currently as director of International Affairs. He has taught over 70 undergraduate and graduate business courses and for the past six years, graduate level business courses focused on team and change management theories and practices. Lozano earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University, and a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of the Incarnate Word.

Marbeya Makekau, Ed.D., is the assistant vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion strategic planning and networks at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, leading initiatives to achieve Hispanic-Serving Institution status, foster partnerships that facilitate culturally rich learning environments, and support university-wide diversity action planning and implementation. Makekau earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon, a master’s degree from San Francisco State University, and a doctorate from California State University, Fresno.

Alberto J. Maldonado serves as director, chief executive and administrative officer of the Roberto Hernández Center at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, as well as the special assistant to the vice-chancellor for diversity, equity and inclusion. Maldonado is responsible for overall management and planning, including personnel, budget administration, and program development and implementation. He co-leads the Chancellors Committee for Hispanic Student Initiatives at the university and serves in several key university and community boards and committees. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee.

Jacob-Aidan Isaiah Martinez, Ed.D., is the director of student life and adjunct faculty in the student development department at San Antonio College, with over 15 years of experience in student affairs. Martinez is a member of the board of directors for Omega Delta Phi Fraternity, Inc., where he served as the ninth national president of the organization. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University, a master’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a doctorate from Texas Tech University.

Sandra Martinez is the dean of enrollment services and engagement at Moreno Valley College. She has 15 years of experience in enrollment services within Riverside Community College District, including five years as the director of student financial services at Moreno Valley College. Martinez works to meet enrollment and retention goals by broadening the availability of resources to students and families, and supporting the professional development of classified professionals and faculty across the college. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and a master’s degree from Brandman University.

Larissa Mercado-López, Ph.D., is professor and chair of women’s, gender and sexuality studies at California State University, Fresno, and currently serves as special assistant to the provost for faculty equity and belonging, where she works to support faculty equity, retention and promotion. Mercado-López also leads Fresno State’s efforts to improve servingness for students who are raising children, and is director of the CSU Student Success Network Conference, which brings together faculty, staff, and students from across the 23-campus system to share knowledge and practices that advance student equity and success. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and a doctorate from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Barbara Meschino has over 10 years of experience in higher education as an educator and administrator, and currently serves as dean of the West Side Learning Center, the satellite campus of Malcolm X College. She joined the Multicultural Leadership Academy in 2020 through the Latino Policy Forum, and in recognition of her outstanding contributions to students and colleagues, Barbara received the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development administrator of excellence award in 2020. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Clark Atlanta University and a master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Daniel Montoya serves as vice president of university relations and development, as well as CEO of the 49er Foundation at California State University Long Beach. A native of New Mexico, Montoya served four years in the U.S. Navy before becoming a fundraising professional with over 25 years of experience, serving at San Diego State University, the University of California San Diego, Loyola Marymount University, and now Cal State Long Beach. He earned a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University, a master’s degree from Webster University, and received a Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University.

Cyndia Morales Muñiz, Ed.D. serves as senior director for HispanicServing Institution initiatives at the University of Central Florida, working across the university to develop a centralized vision for maximizing the HSI designation in a way that serves all stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. Her leadership has led to UCF’s Seal of Excelencia certification and the attainment of two Title V HSI grants, Project POTENCIAL and ENFERMERIA, totaling $5.7 million. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University, a master’s degree from St. John’s University and a doctorate from UCF.

Rudy M. Ortiz, Ph.D., is a full professor of physiology and endocrinology and past-chair of the department of molecular and cell biology at the University of California, Merced. He was awarded a University of California Office of the President's postdoctoral fellowship, followed by a Ford Foundation fellowship and a Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award fellowship. He is a founding faculty member of UC Merced and was promoted to full professor in 2014, now serving as program director for the UC Merced USDA HSI Education, and the National Institutes of Health Undergraduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement training programs. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University and a doctorate from University of California, Santa Cruz.

Norma Pastor, M.D., D.H.S., serves as the academic dean of the Latin division and has served as associate dean, program director of the health program, and as a faculty at Keiser University. She earned an M.D. from the University Autonoma of Santo Domingo, and her doctorate from Keiser University.

Esther Pla-Cázares, is a counselor for the school of business hospitality and public services at the College of Southern Nevada. She has over 15 years of higher education experience supporting students in their career journey. Pla-Cazares has pioneered efforts and actively works on meeting the needs of immigrant students, especially the undocumented population through her advocacy work and collaboration with the community. She was recently responsible for writing a bill in Nevada which successfully passed the 2023 legislative session, expanding in-state tuition benefits while increasing access and equity. Pla-Cazares earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton, a master’s degree from California State University, Northridge, and is a doctoral candidate at University of Nevada-Las Vegas.

Yeurys Pujols, Ed.D., is the inaugural vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion at Hudson County Community College and has 14 years in higher education as an administrative leader and history instructor. His previous positions include coordinator of student services, the director of enrollment and student services, and the executive director of HCCC’s North Hudson campus. He served as the deputy Title IX coordinator, the deputy compliance officer for the college, conduct officer at the North Hudson campus, and the co-chair of the president’s advisory council on diversity, equity and inclusion. He earned a bachelor’s from New Jersey City University, a master’s from Seton Hall University, and a doctorate from New Jersey City University.

Freddy N. Ramirez, Ed.D., serves as interim dean of counseling and student development at MiraCosta College. He has over 30 years of experience serving in higher education including with the California Community College and the California State University Systems. He has served as a classified professional, associate instructor, full-time tenured faculty, and student services administrator. Ramirez earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University San Marcos, a master’s degree from San Diego State University, a master’s degree from CSU San Marcos and a doctorate from San Diego State University.

Marshall Roache serves as the executive dean at Chemeketa Community College where he oversees career and technical education academic programing, public safety and two outreach centers. He joined Chemeketa in 2011 as an adjunct instructor in criminal justice and accepted a full-time faculty position the next year. In 2015, he became dean of emergency services. Roache earned a bachelor's from the University of Oregon and a master's degree from Fort Hays State University. He is currently pursuing his doctorate at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Alma D. Rodríguez, Ed.D., is dean of the college of education and P-16 integration at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Rodríguez began her career in education as an elementary bilingual teacher and has been an educator at Hispanic-Serving Institutions for over 18 years. Her current work focuses on the improvement of educator preparation programs and building capacity at HSIs. She has held various leadership roles including being appointed to the State Board for Educator Certification. Rodríguez earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Brownsville, a master’s degree from Texas Southmost College and a doctorate from The University of Houston.

Alyssa Rodriguez, is assistant professor of education at Calumet College of St. Joseph, guiding students through research projects in all the college’s graduate programs. She has managed institutional projects that include evaluation for Department of Education and major foundation grants, strategic enrollment and retention planning, and quality improvement projects. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University and master’s degree from Calumet College of St. Joseph. She is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Gwynedd Mercy University.

Giovanni Rodriguez currently serves as the director of El Centro, the Center for Latinidad at Mt. San Antonio College, with over 13 years of experience in student housing, student leadership, and educational research in California Community College and California State University campuses. He earned a master’s degree from California State University Fullerton.

Rodney H. Rodriguez, Ph.D., is vice president of institutional advancement and economic development at South Texas College. He is the first in his family to attend a university and attain a doctorate. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Texas A&M International University and a doctorate from Our Lady of the Lake University.

R. Anthony Rolle, Ph.D., is dean of the college of education at the University of South Florida. Rolle returned to USF after serving as the inaugural dean of the Alan Shawn Feinstein college of education and professional studies at the University of Rhode Island. His past professional service includes president of the National Education Policy Center; a distinguished research fellow at the Shanghai Academy of Education Sciences; and research fellow for the National Education Policy Center. Rolle earned a bachelor’s degree from Santa Clara University, a master’s degree from the University of Washington, and a doctorate from Indiana University.

John D. Sanchez has served as executive director for advancement at Texas A&M University-San Antonio since 2020, with over 18 years of experience in higher education fundraising and strategy. During his time in the role, the university has received the second-largest gift in the institution’s history and has tripled annual giving. Sanchez earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Our Lady of the Lake University.

Erica T. Sosa, Ph.D., is the associate dean for research success in the college for health, community and policy at the University of Texas at San Antonio. She also serves as director of the Center for Community-Based and Applied Health Research, which focuses on community-engaged research to address critical health issues. She is a professor in public health with expertise in public health programs among Hispanic communities, health equity and community-engaged research best practices. She earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University, a master’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a doctorate from Texas A&M University.

Dina Sosa-Hegarty, Ed.D., is dean of thriving learning communities for student success at Dallas College, collaborating with faculty, student affairs, enrollment management and institutional research stakeholders to support students from specialized populations in completing their educational goals. Her research and writing center on best practices and strategic plans that regard shortening time to completion and mitigating barriers that impede student success. Sosa-Hegarty earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from St. Mary’s University, and a doctorate from Texas A&M UniversityCommerce.

Monze Stark-Magaña is the dean of enrollment services at the College of Southern Idaho, responsible for the recruitment, admission, and retention of students and has over eight years of experience in higher education, enrollment management, and marketing. She previously served as director of admission at Northern Essex Community College and associate director of multicultural recruitment at the University of Idaho. Stark-Magaña is a firstgeneration college student from Guanajuato, Mexico, and earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Idaho.

Vanessa C. Torres serves as the associate vice president of enrollment marketing & recruitment at Texas A&M University-San Antonio Previously, she worked at San Antonio College and St. Mary’s University. Torres is a volunteer with the San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists and the American Marketing Association for which she is president of the Professional Chapters Council. She was also part of the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of South Texas for more than a decade. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Columbia College and a master’s degree from Roosevelt University.

Emilio C. Ulloa, Ph.D., is a professor of psychology, and associate chief diversity officer for Hispanic-Serving Institutions and regional affairs at San Diego State University. He has previously served as faculty, director of advising and programs, director of the educational opportunity programs and ethnic affairs office, and the associate dean of students and campus climate. Ulloa has over 65 publication credits and has been recognized for his administrative, mentoring and student success work. He recently led the effort to earn SDSU the Seal of Excelencia certification and is the principal investigator on two Department of Education Title III and Title V grants. He earned a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University, and a doctorate from Arizona State University.

Dominique Vargas is the inaugural executive director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Western Oregon University. Prior to this position, she served as inaugural executive director and associate dean of equity, diversity and inclusion at the University of Wisconsin-Stout for three years, and at Sul Ross State University before that role. Vargas earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Sul Ross State University, and a master’s degree from the University of Southern California.

Alberto "Beto" Vasquez, Ed.D., serves as director of STEM Outreach with the University of California San Diego’s Center for Research on Educational Equity, Assessment and Teaching Excellence, as an adjunct biology faculty member at a community college, and has experience working in local government, education and the non-profit sectors. He experienced community college education at San Diego City College before earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of California San Diego, and his doctorate at San Diego State University.

Abraham Villarreal is campus dean at Cochise College where he serves as a member of the president’s council and administrator of record for the Douglas Campus, leading community engagement efforts connecting the campus with the Douglas community. Villarreal’s previous role as dean of student success entailed overseeing academic support initiatives including the freshman student success course, tutoring, library services, testing, advising, TRIO and adult education services. He has also served as assistant dean of student support and civic engagement for Western New Mexico University. Villarreal earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Western New Mexico University.

Ebonée Williams, Ph.D., is the associate vice chancellor for student success and equity at the University of California, Santa Cruz, serving as a member of the division’s cabinet and leadership teams, advising the vice chancellor and campus leadership on matters of student success, equity, retention, climate and belonging. She previously served at UC San Diego as director of the Gordon Engineering Leadership Center, as interim assistant vice chancellor of student retention and success, and on the student affairs leadership team as the director of virtual experience and peer engagement initiatives. Williams earned a bachelor’s degree from Brown University, a master’s degree from Lille Business School, and a doctorate from the University of Washington.

George A. Williams, Jr., Ph.D., serves as the interim provost at Our Lady of the Lake University. He has held positions as a special education teacher and academic student success manger, assistant professor of education, dean of student success, and vice president for student affairs. Williams has presented and served as a guest lecturer at the state, regional, national, and international levels addressing topics such as diversity, leadership and culturally responsive teaching. He earned his bachelor's degree from Bethune-Cookman University, a master’s degree from the University of South Florida, and a doctorate from the University of New Mexico.

HACU hosts Executive Leadership Seminar, International Symposium in Guadalajara, México, June 19-22, 2023

HACU brought together approximately 120 participants including Fellows of the fourth cohort of HACU's Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo to its Executive Leadership Seminar on June 19-22, 2023, and an International Symposium that included a Student Track on June 22-23, at the Hotel RIU Plaza Guadalajara.

The Executive Leadership Seminar, a pre-conference event of the HACU International Symposium, and Symposium Student Track opened with a welcome reception to kick off a four-day event focused on leadership and international education sessions. Speakers included leaders and high-level staff from both international and U.S. colleges and universities. Campus visits to the Universidad de Guadalajara and Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara included presentations on international education strategies and activities.

Symposium sessions included, “Challenges and Opportunities for International Education in Mexico and Latin America,” “Resources and Best Practices in International Education,” and “Reflections on the Challenges, Opportunities, Resources and Best Practices Regarding International Education in Mexico and Latin America.” Academics and leaders from colleges and universities in the U.S. and México, and representatives from non-profit organizations from both countries were among the panelists.

The Student Track sessions focused on study abroad opportunities and the benefits of an international education in a global economy. The agenda for the International Symposium’s Student Track included panelists representing top Mexican and U.S. schools as well as advocacy leaders with perspectives on leveraging international connections. On-line and in-person study abroad opportunities were also covered.

A graduation ceremony also took place where Fellows of the fourth cohort of HACU's Leadership Academy/ La Academia de Liderazgo received certificates at the conclusion of their of their work in the year-long program.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores addresses attendees of the Executive Leadership Seminar and International Symposium in Guadalajara, Mexico.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores,HACU Governing Board Chair Mike Flores, HACU staff and the fourth cohort of HACU's Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo.

Attendees of the Executive Leadership Seminar at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, Central Campus in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Panel presentation at the Universidad de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Attendees of the Executive Leadership Seminar.

HACU Director of the Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo Tito Guerrero, HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, Chancellor of University of California, Merced Juan S. Muñoz with panelists at International Symposium.

Students attending the International Symposium.

Panelists at the Universidad de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Attendees of the Executive Leadership Seminar at the Universidad de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Mexico.

HACU on the Road

visits Mexico City and Guadalajara

HACU hosted two events in Mexico as part of its HACU on the Road visits. HACU has visited national and international campuses for over 10 years to speak to education and community leaders about important issues in higher education, and to highlight HACU’s programs and initiatives.

A HACU on the Road event was held on June 26, 2023, at Hotel RIU Plaza Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco México, bringing together approximately 50 higher education leaders from the surrounding areas. Welcome remarks and a lunch were followed by a presentation by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores that highlighted key programs and initiatives of the Association. Antonio Leaño Reyes, Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara rector, and Héctor Raúl Solís Gadea, Universidad de Guadalajara executive vice rector were recognized during the event for hosting attendees of HACU’s Executive Leadership Seminar. Closing remarks were given by Luis Gustavo Padilla Montes, university center of economic and administrative sciences rector, Universidad de Guadalajara.

A HACU on the Road event was held on June 28, 2023 at La Casa de la Universidad de California en México City, Mexico, bringing together over 20 higher education leaders from the surrounding areas. Welcome remarks and a lunch were followed by a presentation from President Flores highlighting key programs and initiatives of the Association. Roberto Quiroz, U.S. Embassy cultural affairs officer; Silvio González, minister counselor for public diplomacy of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico; and Ethan Rosenzweig, deputy assistant secretary for academic programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State, also addressed attendees. Closing remarks were given by President of St. Augustine College and HACU Governing Board member Reyes González.

HACU on the Road is an initiative designed to promote national and international dialogue about the state of Hispanic higher education among chancellors, presidents of colleges and universities, superintendents of Hispanic-Serving School Districts, corporate leaders, and other supporters of Hispanic higher education.

Héctor Raúl Solis Gadea, Vicerrector Ejecutivo of Universidad de Guadalajara recognized for support of HACU during the HACU on the Road.

Lic. Antonio Leaño Reyes, Rector of Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara recognized for support of HACU during the HACU on the Road.

Attendees of HACU on the Road at La Casa de la Universidad de California en México City, Mexico.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores presenting at HACU on the Road.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores presenting at HACU on the Road.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores gives tokens of appreciation to a representative from the U.S. State Department.

Reyes González, President of St. Augustine College at HACU on the Road event in Mexico City, Mexico.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores gives tokens of appreciation to representatives from the U.S. State Department.

Building Hispanic Talent Initiative brings transformative summer programs to high school students

Dominion Energy in partnership with HACU is leading the way to increase Hispanic representation in STEM and energy fields with the Building Hispanic Talent Initiative® (BHTI). As summer comes to an end, the spotlight is now on the recent BHTI summer bridge programs offered at select higher education institutions. These programs are as much a transformative experience as they are an educational opportunity

This initiative aims to transform the STEM and energy landscape, as affirmed by Maria P Tamburri, vice president of intergovernmental affairs at Dominion Energy, “I am excited with the progress we’ve made to reach Hispanic students across our footprint and beyond with The Dominion Energy Building Hispanic Talent Initiative. This innovative partnership with HACU will lead to future leaders in the clean and renewable energy industry. The Building Hispanic Talent Initiative represents just one of many ways Dominion Energy is putting ideas into action.”

Seven partner institutions spearheaded the program, including George Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College, Sampson Community College, The University of Connecticut –Stamford Campus, The University of North Carolina at Pembroke, The University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, and Utah Valley University. In the summer of 2023 alone, the BHTI served over 500 students from more than 130 high schools across the country.

BHTI has inspired participating institutions to think of innovative ways to serve students and local industry. “By equipping our students with free courses, tutoring, and additional educational opportunities, they are excelling and seeing college as a space for them,” said Emily Brown of Sampson Community College.

The introduction of essential life skills such as networking and personal organization ensures these students are academically proficient and prepared to tackle real-world challenges with confidence. This perspective is echoed by Amanda Diaz of Utah Valley University, who emphasized that the summer bridge programs have life-long benefits for students. “Students gain invaluable STEM-oriented experience all while gaining successful life skills like networking, personal organization, research skills and problem solving.”

The BHTI exemplifies what collaborative efforts between industry and educational institutions can achieve. HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores said, “HACU’s partnership with Dominion Energy is integral to our joint effort to expand Hispanic representation and career opportunities within the energy industry.”

In the coming years and with every new cohort of students, BHTI will help create a balanced, educated, and skilled future for the Hispanic community. By investing in today’s youth, the BHTI ensures that the future shines bright not just for these students and their families, but for our nation and the world.