The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education - Spring 2024

Hispanic-Serving Institutions Across the Nation total 600

Designer Michael Lopez michael.lopez@hacu.net

Mike Flores, Chair Chancellor

Alamo Colleges District San Antonio, Texas

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

Emma Grace Hernández Flores

Secretary President Universidad de Iberoamérica San José, Costa Rica

Irma Becerra, Treasurer President Marymount University Arlington, Virginia

Federico Zaragoza Substitute for Past-Chair President College of Southern Nevada Las Vegas, Nevada

Ted Alejandre Superintendent San Bernardino County Schools San Bernadino, California

Adela de la Torre President San Diego State University San Diego, California

Abel Antonio Chávez President Our Lady of the Lake University San Antonio, Texas

Daniel López President Harold Washington College City Colleges of Chicago Chicago, Illinois

Gary May Chancellor University of California, Davis Davis, California

Margaret McMenamin President Union College Cranford, New Jersey

Brad Mortensen President Weber State University Ogden, Utah

Greg Peterson President Chandler-Gilbert Community College Chandler, Arizona

Frank D. Sánchez President Manhattanville University Purchase, New

Garnett S.

Cynthia Larive Chancellor University of California, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, California HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES GOVERNING BOARD 2023-24

Luke Visconti Chairman and Founder  Fair360, LLC

Palm Beach, Florida

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

CONTACTING HACU

HACU National Headquarters 4801 NW Loop 410, Suite 701 San Antonio, TX 78229

Tel: (210) 692-3805

Fax: (210) 692-0823

Email: hacu@hacu.net

ABOUT HACU

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

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

Tel: (202) 467-0893

Fax: (202) 496-9177

Email: hnip@hacu.net

Tel: (916) 442-0392

Fax: (916) 446-4028

Email: wro@hacu.net

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

Spring is always an exciting time in higher education as students, faculty and staff work towards completing the academic year. It is just as exciting for those of us advocating and working with state and federal legislators to increase and expand support to ensure student success. Though our work takes place year-round, our efforts double during the spring as we prepare for Congressional visits, establish new partnerships, create professional development opportunities, and provide scholarships for students at our member institutions.

On April 9-10, HACU hosted its 29th Annual National Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education in Washington, D.C. This historic event brought together 400 advocates from higher education and the corporate sector, as well as student leaders to advocate for HACU’s legislative priorities and more equitable funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). An inaugural student track “HSInnovators,” included nearly 100 students participating in the Capitol Forum and Capitol Hill visits that followed. A feature article in this issue highlights the Capitol Forum.

HACU has released its Legislative Agenda for the 118th Congress to address the needs of HSIs, PK-12 support, as well as funding and pipeline issues in higher education. The urgency in advocating for funding support has only increased as the number of HSIs has also risen, from 572 to 600 in a single year. This 5% growth emphasizes their importance and influence in teaching and training students to become the leaders and economic drivers of the future, a goal which can only be achieved if HSIs receive the necessary and equitable funding and support.

HACU has worked with Congressman Joaquin Castro and Senator Alex Padilla to introduce the Hispanic Educational Resources and Empowerment (HERE) Act, which directly addresses the pipeline from K-12 to higher education, specifically to our HSIs from Hispanic-Serving Schools Districts, public school districts with 25% or more Latino enrollment. You can read more about the HERE Act on page 9.

The HACU On the Road events continue our ongoing outreach efforts to speak and connect with education and community leaders on pressing issues in higher education. At the start of the year, we visited higher education institutions in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, forging relationships with key individuals and organizations dedicated to the success of Hispanic students.

The article on the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs recognizes 46 HSIs as Fulbright HSI Leaders for their engagement with the Fulbright Program during the 2022-23 academic year. HACU was honored to have the official announcement made during our 37th Annual Conference and encourages all our members to seek out potential opportunities with the Fulbright Program for student international study and faculty cross-cultural academic work.

A special welcome to our newest HACU-members, as well as incoming presidents of our member institutions in the member news section. We are always grateful to our supporters and partners for joining us in championing Hispanic success in higher education and are eager to witness the goals we will reach together in the coming year.

Cordially,

Antonio R. Flores President and CEO

HACU, Ford Motor Company Fund award two hundred Ford Economic Mobility Grants

HACU and Ford Motor Company Fund selected 200 recipients of the Ford Economic Mobility Grants from HACUmember institutions. Students submitted essays explaining their resilience and strength in the face of crisis. The one-time relief assistance awards were given to students who needed emergency assistance in the categories of food, housing, transportation, technology and dependent care. For a complete list of students and their institutions visit hacu.net

Five students awarded Denny’s Hungry for Education™ Scholarships

HACU and Denny’s Incorporated have selected five students from HACU-member institutions to receive a $2,000 scholarship for the 2023-24 school year. The Denny’s Hungry for Education™ Scholarships were available to students in all majors who submitted 500-word essays describing how Denny’s can help bring communities together. For a complete list of students and their institutions visit hacu.net.

HACU recognizes students with USAA scholarships in San Antonio

HACU held a luncheon event to recognize six college students receiving $5,000 scholarships on Dec. 14, 2023, as part of a financial education program supported by the United Services Automobile Association program.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores presented scholarships to three students who attended the luncheon with their family members. Awardees were among those selected after participating in a Hispanic Financial Education and Competencies Program designed to help students and their families become better informed to plan for their financial future. For a complete list of students and their institutions, visit hacu.net

Six students awarded Palo Alto Networks Cyber Scholars Program Scholarships

HACU and Palo Alto Networks have announced the six recipients of the Palo Alto Networks Cyber Scholars scholarships of $5,000. Undergraduate and graduate students from HACU-member institutions who are majoring in cybersecurity, information system security, computer information systems, computer science, information technology, or similar tech-related STEM and business majors were eligible for the scholarship. Scholarship recipients are:

Andrea U. - California State University, Monterey Bay

Allen R. - California State University, Stanislaus

Francisco S. - Northeastern Illinois University

Brianna P. - Roosevelt University

Alejandro M. - Southwestern University

Ernesto F. - University of North Texas

The Palo Alto Networks Cyber Scholars program is part of the 202324 HACU Scholarship Program.

HACU accepting applications for May 3 Emerging Leaders’ Summit at San José State University

HACU is accepting applications from undergraduate and graduate students for an in-person Emerging Leaders’ Summit on May 3, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., presented in partnership with San José State University. Students enrolled at participating HACU-member institutions in California’s Bay Area are encouraged to apply (HACU is unable to provide travel or lodging assistance to those who live outside the local radius). Two participants will receive sponsorships to attend the 2024 HACU ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado.

The one-day Summit will include career development workshops designed for students of all majors with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Workshop topics will focus on career opportunities, tips for resume writing, interviewing, and securing internships. Students will also have a chance to meet with corporate and federal employers in attendance.

HACU accepting applications for undergraduate student Leaderin-Residence Program

Applications are being accepted for the HACU Leader-in-Residence Program, a competitive eight-month program where 50 students from HACU-member institutions across the U.S. and Puerto Rico receive leadership and career development training. Students selected for the program are designated as a HACU Leader-in-Residence at their home institution.

Program benefits and eligibility requirements can be found on the application page. The HACU Leader-in-Residence application deadline is June 21, 2024, 5:00 p.m. CT.

HACU announces speakers, agenda and workshops for 14th International Conference in Salamanca, Spain

HACU will host its 14th International Conference “Innovation and Technology for an Inclusive and Diverse Workforce,” on June 3-5, 2024, at the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain. Twentyfour concurrent workshops under the conference theme will be offered, and simultaneous translation (English/Spanish and Spanish/English) will be provided during the sessions and plenary/lunch events. An online agenda is now available.

The International Conference will begin with an Opening Ceremony held on June 3. Featured speakers have been announced for the plenary sessions “International Higher Education: A Driver for Innovation and Workforce Diversity,” “Generative AI: Opportunities and Threats for Global Higher Education,” and “Forging a Common Policy Agenda for Pan-Hispanic International Education.”

A Student Track, offered in conjunction with the conference, will include panel discussions and informative workshops related to study abroad and other international education programs. Students will also visit several local universities to see first-hand their academic programs and network with local students attending universities in Spain to exchange ideas and build their professional network.

Information on registration, hotel, advertising, exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities is available, with May 20 the deadline to reserve an exhibit table.

HACU accepting applications for the 2024 Enlace Mid-Level Leadership Program

HACU is accepting applications for the Enlace Mid-Level Leadership Program. The program is a six-month development experience offered in a cohort format consisting of webinars and two in-person sessions. Academic leaders or non-academic support personnel serving around the mid-level at colleges and universities are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through May 3, 2024, with selected participants notified in June.

More information on the program, cost, nominations and application process are available on hacu.net.

HACU accepting applications for 2024-25 Leadership Academy/ La Academia de Liderazgo

HACU is accepting applications for the sixth cohort of its Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo. The Leadership program prepares senior higher education administrators at colleges and universities nationwide for top leadership roles at HispanicServing Institutions, emerging HSIs and other institutions of higher learning. Applications will be taken through May 3, 2024, with selected participants notified in June 2024 of their acceptance to the one-year fellowship program that includes webinars and three in person seminars.

The Leadership Academy faculty consist of current and former presidents, chancellors and senior administrators that bring over 100 years of combined experience in serving various sectors of higher education, including private/public universities, community colleges and faith-based institutions.

More information on the program, cost and application process is available at hacu.net

HACU and Territorium launch

Avanza Initiative to transform student career success in a skills-oriented economy

HACU has begun a new collaboration initiative called Avanza with edtech provider Territorium to transform the educational and employability landscape for students at colleges and universities directly affecting recruitment, retention and careers. HACU-member institutions joining the initiative will receive special member pricing to access Territorium’s LifeJourney platform, which provides students with a comprehensive learner record, a skills-first digital wallet, and AI-powered career pathways with job-matching technology.

Leadership from member institutions can register to explore how LifeJourney can benefit their specific campus through interactive demonstrations showcasing LifeJourney’s capabilities. More information available on hacu.net

HACU and USDA announces winning team of the USDA Agricultural Export Market Challenge

HACU and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agriculture Service have selected Inter American University of Puerto Rico - Aguadilla as the winner of the Agricultural Export Market Challenge, and team members will travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with USDA leaders. The team finalists that presented their solutions on February 29, 2024, were:

• Inter American University of Puerto Rico – Aguadilla, (Aguadilla, P.R.).

• North Carolina A&T State University, (Greensboro, N.C.).

• Regis University (Denver, Colo.).

Institutions from nine states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico participated in the 2024 challenge. During the six-week challenge, teams of students developed and presented a market entry strategy for a fictitious American company seeking sales opportunities for a U.S. food or agricultural product in an overseas market.

HACU receives NSF grant to transform access to research support at HSIs

HACU has been awarded a National Science Foundation grant to support capacity-building for innovative research at Hispanic-Serving Institutions, one of eight organizations in the country to receive the award through the Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity (GRANTED) initiative. The $1.9 million grant will help fund the Visioning, Organizing, Leading, and Advancing the Research Enterprise at the HSIs Institute (VOLARE Institute).

The VOLARÉ Institute project will be led by Lisa Alcorta, Ph.D., senior vice president for programs and operations at HACU, and is a series of research capacity building institutes for HSIs encompassing three cohorts of institutions over three years. with each institute spanning a yearlong program of activities.

“As the sole national association representing Hispanic-Serving Institutions, we are excited about the great prospects of this NSF grant award that enables us to significantly increase research capacity at HSIs though HACU’s innovative initiative, ‘Visioning, Organizing, Leading, and Advancing the Research Enterprise (VOLARÉ, ‘I will fly’ in Spanish),” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. The VOLARÉ Institute will allow us to foster a more inclusive national research community as it captures the essence of reaching new heights in HSI research capacity and output.”

HACU announces USTA Future Leaders in Sport Scholarship recipients

HACU and The United States Tennis Association announced the $5,000 USTA Future Leaders in Sport Scholarship awards. In order to be considered for a scholarship, students must be enrolled full-time in an accredited four-year college or university as a junior or senior and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The following students working toward a degree in sports management and enrolled at a HACUmember institution received scholarships:

Dakota B. - Arizona State University

Alondra R. - Texas Woman's University

Giovanni B. - University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Pablo M. - Warner Pacific University

HACU National Internship Program interns begin spring session

HACU welcomed approximately 200 college students to the 2024 spring session of the HACU National Internship Program during a hybrid orientation on Jan. 5, 2024, for interns serving across federal agencies in Washington, D.C., and field offices nationwide or remote. Interns serve for 15 weeks as part of the spring internship session.

A welcome was given by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, followed by remarks from HNIP alum Adrienne Rodriguez, who shared her experiences in the program.

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

• Export-Import Bank of the United States

• Library of Congress

• Securities and Exchange Commission

• Small Business Administration

• U.S. Agency for International Development

• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

◦ Forest Service

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

◦ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

◦ National Institute of Health

• U.S. Department of Justice

• U.S. Department of Labor

• U.S. Department of Treasury

• Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Visit hacu.net/hnip.

HACU hosts Emerging Leaders' event with University of Central Florida

HACU hosted an Emerging Leaders’ Summit on Nov. 16, 2023, at the University of Central Florida campus. The event brought together 125 students from area colleges and universities to meet with professionals and corporate representatives to learn about career opportunities, tips for resume writing, interviewing, and securing internships.

Opening remarks were given by Andrea I. Guzmán, Ed.D., UCF vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion. Corporate partners that held career preparation workshops and panels included: Accenture, Blue Origin, Fannie Mae, Google and USAID. The Summit concluded with an employer showcase and closing remarks from Cyndia Morales Muñiz, Ed.D., UCF senior director for Hispanicserving initiatives.

Students from the following institutions were among the participants.

Ana G. Mendez University

Florida Southern College

Hillsborough Community College

Johnson University Florida

New College of Florida

Polk State College

Remington College (Fla.)

Southeastern University

University of Central Florida

Valencia College

Welcome New Members

(As March 25, 2024)

Hispanic-Serving Institutions

MassBay Community College (Mass.)

Seton Hall University (N.J.)

University of Connecticut Waterbury (Conn.)

Associate Member Institution

Barton College (N.C.)

Friends University (Kan.)

Middlesex Community College (Mass.)

Millersville University of Pennsylvania (Pa.)

Moravian University (Pa.)

Rollins College (Fla.)

Ulster County Community College, SUNY (N.Y.)

University at Buffalo, SUNY (N.Y.)

University of Oregon (Ore.)

University of Saint Mary (Kan.)

University of San Francisco (Calif.)

Yavapai College (Ariz.)

New Presidents

HACU Member Institutions welcome new presidents.

Armando Valdez President Colorado State University–Pueblo

John M. Fuchko, III, Ed.D. President Dalton State College

Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D.

Chancellor

Houston Community College System

Kenneth C. “Chris” Holford, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Purdue University Northwest

Keith Elder, Ph.D. President Saint Xavier University

Mark A. Welsh, III President Texas A&M University

Faculty/Staff Affiliates

Alexandrea (Allie) Barnes, University of Indianapolis (Ind.)

Dr. Victoria Black, Texas State University (Texas)

Dr. Duane Bruce, Texas State University (Texas)

Dr. Cynthia L. Hernandez, Texas State University (Texas)

Lizette Leon, California Baptist University (Calif.)

Dr. Kennybel Peña, York College, CUNY (N.Y.)

Dr. Dolores Raivzee-Bell, The University of Texas at Arlington (Texas)

Dr. Bob E. Vásquez, Texas State University (Texas)

International Member Institutions

Saint Louis University Madrid (Spain)

Universitat de Valencia (Spain)

California CSUN receives grants for closing equity gaps, interdisciplinary program

California State University, Northridge (CSUN) received a $1.25 million federal grant from the Office of Special Education Programs in the U.S. Department of Education to fund “The Bridge Project: Transdisciplinary Preparation of Culturally Responsive Early Childhood Special Educators, Behavior Interventionists, and Speech-Language Pathologists to Serve Young Children with Disabilities.” The program goal is to ensure that children, including those from traditionally underrepresented communities, get the best services by the three areas working together collaboratively.

CSUN was also awarded a five-year, $3 million Title V grant from the U.S. Department of Education DHSI (Developing HispanicServing Institutions) program for the creation of a new project to increase the number of underrepresented students studying science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and the arts, and health sciences and to close equity gaps. The project is a collaborative effort between CSUN and HACU-member institutions Los Angeles Pierce College and College of the Canyons.

New Jersey

NJCU Awarded $222,000 grant to develop programming for New Jersey educators

New Jersey City University (NJCU) has been awarded a one-year grant in the amount of $222,222 by the New Jersey Department of Education to develop programming for educators. The partnership will focus on creating programming for teachers geared towards the development of skills and knowledge for teaching reading and literacy to preschool and elementary school children, and will last through March 2025.

The initiative will address critical needs in English language arts education, including foundational reading skills, comprehension strategies, multicultural literature, and literacy integration across content areas. The project also includes the development of asynchronous professional learning modules to meet statewide professional learning needs.

New York

LaGuardia Community College receives $116 million grant

A grant of $116.2 million was awarded to LaGuardia Community College by the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation to create the Cohen Career Collective, a state-of-the-art workforce training center. The 160,000 square-foot facility will feature education and training programs expected to lead to associate degrees, industry certifications, and other credentials in high-demand sectors including health care, construction, technology, culinary and hospitality, green jobs, and film and television. Student support services such as career advising, preparation for job interviews, job placement, childcare, and financial literacy training will also be available.

Texas EPCC receives Advanced Technological Education grant from NSF

El Paso Community College received a threeyear $350,000 Advanced Technological Education grant from the National Science Foundation to fund EPCC’s Developing Computational Adversarial Thinking: Bridging Technical Skills Training & Academic Coursework program. The program’s goal is to enhance the education of science and engineering technicians at both the undergraduate and secondary school levels by developing curriculum modules infusing adversarial thinking into computer science courses, increasing technical and cybersecurity techniques while teaching programming skills.

In addition to innovative classroom experiences, students will be able to participate in workshops offered by professional practitioners, engage in Hackathon competitions and other extracurricular activities. The grant will significantly enhance the computational landscape in the region by providing a range of opportunities for students, professionals, and existing practitioners, with opportunities to upscale their skills and credentials through EPCC’s specialized curriculum.

Lone Star College receives $250,000 grant for bilingual health care program

Lone Star College-East Aldine Center has received a $250,000 grant for a bilingual health care program. The Texas Reskilling and Upskilling Through Education grant was awarded by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

The grant will provide funding for a clinical medical assistant bilingual certification program, a new healthcare lab, program outreach, provide student financial support, and provide workforce advising and job readiness support. Planned programming includes: preparing health professionals to perform clinical and administrative duties, in-class instruction and work-based learning with area healthcare providers; new instructional equipment and supplies; outreach initiatives to increase student enrollment and completion, targeting bilingual learners and displaced workers; a full-time bilingual workforce coordinator and one-on-one support in program enrollment, graduating, career planning, instruction, and support for resume development, interview skills and professional attire.

OLLU receives $2.2 million grant from López Foundation to benefit first-generation students

Our Lady of the Lake University received a $2.2 million grant from the Hector and Gloria López Foundation to benefit first-generation students, the largest private investment in OLLU history to help Texas students graduate debt-free.

“This will be a transformative gift for many of our students, about 40 percent of whom are first generation,” said OLLU President and HACU Governing Board member Abel A. Chávez, PhD. “We are excited and grateful for the enormous generosity of the Hector and Gloria López Foundation.”

Recipients will be known as López Scholars and will receive tuition assistance and funding for expenses such as housing, paid internships, study abroad programs and leadership development. The support also covers costs posing barriers to student success, such as purchasing a laptop, obtaining health insurance and securing childcare and tutoring. Funding will also be allocated towards university staff to support the López Scholars. Students must demonstrate financial need, be the first in their family to attend college, and live in or graduate from a high school in one of five focus areas — El Paso, Austin, San Antonio, and communities in South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley.

Texas A&M University-San Antonio celebrates 15th anniversary

Texas A&M University-San Antonio was established 25 years ago after Texas state senator Frank L. Madla requested proposals to establish an institution of higher education in South San Antonio. Though met with some initial skepticism, the plan was championed in the city and region, and Texas Gov. Rick Perry signed legislature in 2009 establishing the university as a stand-alone institution.

Texas A&M-San Antonio has seen significant growth and today enrolls nearly 7,700 students and features 62 academic programs. The University is a critical educational resource and serves as a workforce development engine, preparing the next generation of leaders and strengthening the regional economy. The University continues to expand its footprint with new academic buildings and student resources for a student body that is about 77 percent Hispanic, a tradition of engaging with a population that has been long underserved in a part of the city that is often overlooked. From its designation as an Hispanic-Serving Institution to being awarded the 2023 Gold Veteran Education Excellence Recognition, the school has garnered numerous accolades, grants and accreditations.

UH System institutions celebrate 50 years of higher education excellence

The University of Houston-Victoria (UHV), University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) and the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD), all part of the University of Houston System, have reached the half-century mark celebrating their service to the Lone Star State. UHV’s 50th anniversary was in 2023, but the celebration continues this year. Both UHCL and UHD are hosting events throughout 2024 observing both institutions’ missions and contributions to Houston and beyond.

The UH System includes the three universities, as well as the flagship University of Houston (UH). Each institution is a separate entity with its own president and academic programs, all governed by Chancellor Renu Khator and the UHS Board of Regents.

UHV has granted more than 25,000 degrees, and educates about 4,000 annually. UHCL began as the University of Houston at Clear Lake City, was renamed the University of Houston-Clear Lake and for the first half of its existence, offered upper division and graduate courses, opening to freshmen and sophomores in 2014. UHD has an enrollment of more than 14,000 students and in addition to its footprint in downtown Houston, also serves students at UHD Northwest and through course offerings at Lone Star CollegeKingwood and Lone Star College-CyFair.

The HERE Act: promoting and supporting PK-12 and higher education collaboration

To prepare a diverse and talented workforce in rapidly evolving career fields that require post-secondary degrees, our nation must improve the opportunities for success for all our students. Increasing enrollment and postsecondary completion is key to this success and the HERE Act, which focuses on fostering collaboration between PK-12 and institutions of higher education, will increase the number of students prepared for higher education and beyond.

Disparities between enrollment and degree completion for Latinos persist and despite large enrollment gains, many are still not graduating and attaining a postsecondary degree. Progress in increasing college enrollment and success can be made with policy efforts targeted at fostering partnerships between PK-12 and higher education. These partnerships hold great promise in reducing disparities while better preparing students for today’s workforce.

HACU worked with Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Senator Alex Padilla (CA) in 2019 to introduce the Hispanic Educational Resources and Empowerment (HERE) Act. This bill would create a new grant program to support partnerships and collaboration between school districts that educate the majority of Latino students and Hispanic-Serving Institutions with the goal of increasing college enrollment and success.

The shifting demographics in the U.S. has reshaped the face of education over the last two decades, with the numbers of Hispanic or Latino students in PK-12 and higher education significantly increasing. Latino students now comprise 28% of the total student population in the nation’s public schools and are the second largest group of students, while Latino representation in higher education has more than doubled in the same period, making up 21% of the total fall enrollment in 2021. Despite more Latinos pursuing higher education, their college enrollment rate of 33% is still below the national rate of 38%, which includes all racial and ethnic groups except for those who are American Indian or Alaska Native.

Latino students have increased their numbers in the U.S. public elementary and secondary school student population. Approximately 14.1 million Latino students representing 28% of the total student population were enrolled in PK-12 public education in fall 2021, compared to 16% in 2000. It is projected that Hispanic students will make up 30% of the total PK-12 student population by 2030.

HACU introduced the term Hispanic-Serving Schools Districts (HSSDs), defined as public school districts with 25% or more Latino enrollment, in 2005 to draw attention to the growing number of Latino students in the PK12 education system. In the school year 2021-22, there were 2,853 HSSDs that served 20.7 million students or 42% of all students in public schools. Latino students made up 53% of the total enrollment in HSSDs. With 10.9 million Latino students, HSSDs enrolled 78% of all Hispanics in PK-12 public education. Over three-quarters (77%) of the Hispanic enrollment in HSSDs is distributed in seven states, namely, Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.

HSIs have become increasingly crucial in providing postsecondary access to and increasing degree attainment for a significant share of diverse students. There are now 600 HSIs that educate over 5 million students and two-thirds of all Latino undergraduate students in nonprofit postsecondary education. A majority of HSIs are in urban areas and concentrated geographically, with 489 (80%) of these institutions located in six states and one territory: California (172), Florida (30), Illinois (34), New Mexico (24), New Jersey (23), New York (39), Texas (111), and Puerto Rico (56).

Collaboration between PK-12 and higher education, specifically HSIs and HSSDs, can increase educational opportunities, improve pedagogical practices, and prepare students to attain postsecondary success. One in four students attend a public four-year college and a higher percentage (40%) of students from public two-year colleges take a remedial course, which comes with a financial cost and can prolong graduation or lead to students not completing their degrees. Students of color and students from low-income families are disproportionately placed into these courses despite efforts to reform remedial education. PK-12 schools that educate a significant share of these students can work collaboratively with higher education institutions to provide rigorous coursework, as well as access to college readiness opportunities to better prepare students for postsecondary success.

The HERE Act would provide funding to support partnerships between HSIs and HSSDs to increase college enrollment and success for Latino students and the diverse student populations they serve. These partnerships would strengthen pathways for degree attainment and ensure a diverse and educated workforce that can fill the jobs that will guarantee the success of our nation.

Joaquin Castro Representative (TX-20)

Alex Padilla Senator (CA)

Hispanic-Serving Institutions across the nation now total 600

HACU released an analysis of the 2022-23 Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) enrollment data showing an increase in the number of Hispanic-Serving Institutions.

There were 600 institutions in 2022-23 meeting the definition of an HSI compared to 572 in 2021-22, an increase of 28 institutions or 5% from the previous year. The rise highlights the continued growth in Hispanic student enrollment at colleges and universities across the country.

“The rate at which Hispanic-Serving Institutions continue to grow emphasizes their importance to the communities they serve,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “HSIs are engines of upward mobility and are the backbone of educational opportunity for millions of students across the country.”

HSIs are defined as having 25% or more undergraduate Hispanic student full-time equivalent enrollment. In 2022-23, HSIs enrolled 66.2% of all Hispanic undergraduates and 31.7% of all undergraduate students in nonprofit postsecondary education. The number of Emerging HSIs - colleges approaching the 25% Hispanic student enrollment threshold - grew from 400 in 2021 to 412 in 2022-23, an increase of 3%.

Important facts about HSIs:

• Enroll 5.2 million students and two-thirds of all Hispanic undergraduates.

• Enroll 32.2% of Pell recipients.

• Nine of the top 10 colleges and universities ranked by the Social Mobility Index (SMI) in 2022 were HSIs.

• A majority of HSIs are in urban areas and are concentrated geographically, with 82% (489) of these institutions located in seven states and one territory: California (172), Florida (30), Illinois (34), New Jersey (23), New Mexico (24), New York (39), Texas (111) and Puerto Rico (56).

• California and Texas account for 47 percent of all HSIs.

• HSIs and Emerging HSIs are present in all but eight states.

In light of the increased number of HSIs and emerging HSIs provided in this new analysis, HACU has issued a call for action to President Biden to create a President’s Board of Advisors on HSIs. The Board will provide guidance on effective strategies to ensure equity of federal resources for HSIs, directly benefiting the over 5.5 million students they educate and serve.

HACU-members and supporters can act now and call on the President and members of Congress to advocate for the rights of millions of HSI students who deserve equal opportunities and resources, and share the call for action with your community, institution, and network. Download HACU’s HSIs Quick Fact Sheet at hacu.net

HACU Office of Policy Analysis and Information 3/1/2024.

Percentage of Hispanic Undergraduate Students by State Headcount

Number of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs): Total 600 (25.0 % minimum Hispanic Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) enrollment)

Number of Emerging HSIs : Total 412 (15.0 - 24.9 % Hispanic FTE)

State percentages based on:

Total Undergraduate (UG) Student Headcount = 14,780,157

Total Hispanic UG Student Headcount = 3,235,494

Total Hispanic UG Student Percentage = 21.9%

Source: 2022-23 IPEDS data using Title IV eligible, 2 year & 4 year, public and private, nonprofit institutions.

HACU 29th Annual National Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education brings together HSI advocates to Washington D.C. for a historic event

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities kicked off its 29th Annual National Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education on April 9, 2024, featuring notable speakers and presenters during the largest Forum gathering to date, with 400 participants in attendance.

Three free pre-Forum workshops featured Department of Education, National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Agency for International Development representatives. Information about grants and opportunities available for Hispanic-Serving Institutions were provided. Two student track sessions were also held on advocacy techniques and approaches.

The Opening Plenary luncheon featured remarks from Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Xochitl Torres Small, Secretary of Education Miguel A. Cardona, and a Fireside Chat with Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. Discussions focused on the ongoing need for support of Hispanic education and emphasizing the connection between education and economic development by spotlighting the Biden Administration’s CHIPS and Science Act initiatives.

The early afternoon Federal Partnerships Plenary, convened by Senior Vice President for Policy and Government Relations Lena Rodriguez, featured Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis R. McDonough, and Assistant Director for the Directorate for STEM Education at the National Science Foundation James L. Moore III, Ph.D. The day concluded with an overview of the GAO report on HSIs and breakout sessions by states preparing participants attending Capitol Hill meetings.

Fireside Chat with Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis R. McDonough

HSI Advocacy Pitch Competition

An inaugural “HSInnovators” Student Track was held in conjunction with the Forum for 98 participants from colleges and universities in 10 states, including students of HACU’s Voces Nuevas Program in attendance, sponsored by Capital One. The student track prepared students to advocate for HSIs and their 5.2 million students, with the first session, “Tips for Successfully Advocating for HSIs,” providing background on HSIs and HACU’s advocacy initiatives. Students developed a briefing approach for their members of Congress incorporating personal narratives as Latino, firstgeneration, DACA recipients, and/or Pell Grant beneficiaries. The session, “HSI Advocacy Pitch Competition,” had selected students present their proposed pitch, receiving guidance and feedback on clarity, persuasiveness, and relevance to HSI advocacy from advocacy mentors who also served as judges in the pitch contest. Serving as student advocacy judges/mentors were: Tomás Encarnacion, Ph.D., senior advisor, U.S. Census Bureau; Ruth Hurtado, program manager, Federal Aviation Administration; and Frank Reyes, trustee, San Bernardino Community College District.

USDA Deputy Secretary Xiochitl Torres Small, the first Latina to hold this position, addressed students after the pitch presentation and prior to speaking at the Opening Plenary. Students attended the Capitol Forum sessions and meetings on the Forum’s second day at Congressional offices with leadership and academics from their home institutions.

The forum’s second day began with a Congressional Plenary featuring members of Congress providing remarks, including Senator Bernie Sanders, Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, Rep. Joaquin Castro, Sen. Alex Padilla, Representative Delia Ramirez, a video message from Senator Chuck Schumer, Representative Jamaal Bowman, and closing remarks from Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm. The focus of the plenary was on HSIs in the energy space. Capitol Forum attendees departed for Congressional visits after the plenary for a full day of meetings with senators, representatives and their staff, concluding with a Capitol Hill Reception, “Celebrating the Champions of Hispanic Higher Education.”

HACU president and CEO Antonio R. Flores joined Congressman Bowman and representatives from Que Paso Latinx, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Young Invincibles, and the American Psychological Association on the steps of Capitol Hill at a press conference announcing the introduction of the ACCESS Act after the Congressional Plenary. Passage of the ACCESS in Mental Health Act would provide grants to HSIs and other Minority Serving Institutions to create, expand, or improve graduate programs in mental health fields, along with grants of $10,000 per year to students pursuing graduate degrees in mental health fields.

After the Forum concluded, a round table discussion was held with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, HACU staff, and college and university presidents and representatives.

Attendees of HACU's Annual National Capitol Forum

USDA Deputy Secretary Xiochitl Torres Small

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders

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U.S. Representative Delia Ramirez speaks to attendees of Capitol Forum

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona with students attending student track of Capitol Forum.

U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman speaking to attendees of Capitol Forum

U.S. Senator Alex Padilla speaks to attendees of Capitol Forum.

5. U.S. Represenative Teresa Leger Fernández speaks to attendees of Capitol Forum

6. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack with HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and HSI presidents

7. Capitol Forum attendees on Capitol HIll on their way to their Congressional meetings.

8. U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm.

9. State delegation meeting with U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro.

10.HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and Capitol Forum attendees meet with U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer on Capitol Hill.

visits Puerto Rico, Mexico and the Dominican Republic HACU on the Road

HACU hosted three events in Puerto Rico, Mexico and the Dominican Republic 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 January 25 on the campus of Centro de Estudios Universitarios in Monterrey, Mexico, bringing together approximately 50 higher education leaders from the surrounding areas. Opening remarks were given by Madeline Garcés, director of public relations at CEU, followed by a welcome from Carlos Antonio Coello Valadez, rector of CEU. HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores gave a presentation that highlighted key programs and initiatives of the Association, an overview of higher education in the U.S., challenges for Latinos, and supporting the success of Hispanic students.

HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and staff were at the Universidad Iberoamericana in the Dominican Republic on February 13 for a HACU on the Road event bringing together approximately 50 invited participants, including members of the Universidad Iberoamericana community, leaders of HSIs and state leaders from the surrounding area. Cristina Zapata, UNIBE director of communications, gave welcoming remarks, followed by Odile Camilo, UNIBE rector. HACU President Flores discussed the state of Hispanic higher education, priority issues for HispanicServing Institutions, and HACU programs and initiatives.

A HACU on the Road event was held on February 15 at The University of Puerto Rico, bringing together members of the University of Puerto Rico community, leaders of HSIs and leaders from the surrounding area. Luis A. Ferrao Delgado, Ph.D., president of the University of Puerto Rico, gave welcoming remarks followed by a message from Gladys Nieves, president of EDP University. HACU President Flores discussed the state of Hispanic higher education, priority issues for HSIs, and HACU programs and initiatives.

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 HispanicServing School Districts, corporate leaders, and other supporters of Hispanic higher education.

State Department recognizes 46 Hispanic-Serving Institutions as Fulbright HSI Leaders

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs named 46 Hispanic-Serving Institutions as Fulbright HSI Leaders in recognition of their noteworthy engagement with the Fulbright Program during the 20222023 academic year. The announcement was made at HACU’s 37th Annual Conference during the International Plenary Session.

Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield commended the Fulbright HSI Leader honorees: “Representation matters and pairing the worldclass educational opportunities that Hispanic-Serving Institutions provide with the power of Fulbright further enriches the experience and educational opportunities for students and scholars both at home and abroad.”

University of California, Irvine, Chancellor Howard Gillman, a member of HACU’s governing board, said, “We are proud of our status as a Hispanic-serving institution and of the support we offer all of our students.” He commented that receiving this important Fulbright recognition for the third year in a row is a “reflection of the commitment of UCI’s faculty and staff and the talent and dedication of our students.”

For University of Houston’s President Renu Khator, the recognition affirms the cultural and academic support that the university provides as it “strives to ensure an environment of inclusion and success for all.” Former ambassador Michael Pelletier, the inaugural director of UH’s Institute for Global Engagement, credits “the superb and engaged network of Fulbright alumni and faculty across the University” for creating a “Fulbright culture” on campus.

Florida International University’s Vice Provost Heather Russell explains that faculty Fulbrighters collaborate with partners across the world and “serve as FIU ambassadors and advance our foundational goals of serving our global community, fostering cross-cultural academic engagement and creating greater international understanding.”

The Fulbright Program offers a variety of exchange opportunities. In addition to sending U.S. students and scholars abroad, recognized Fulbright HSI Leaders also host international Fulbrighters, such as Fulbright scholarsin-residence and Fulbright foreign language teaching assistants. Faculty members who receive Fulbright U.S. Scholar awards return from their grant experiences and enrich their campus culture, students and curriculum, and the Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides recent alumni and graduate students with opportunities to gain valuable international experience.

For more information in Fulbright opportunities for students, faculty, and administrators, download the Fulbright HSI overview flyer at fulbright.org

HACU 38th Annual Conference

Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success:

Reaching New Heights of Excellence and Equity

SAVE THE DATE

November 1-3, 2024

Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center • Aurora, Colorado

HACU’s Annual Conference is a unique forum for the sharing of information and ideas for the best and most promising practices in the education of Hispanics. The HACU ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute (Student Track) will be held in conjunction with the Annual Conference.

PRE-CONFERENCE EVENTS

Women's Leadership Symposium – Oct. 31

Deans’ Forum on Hispanic Higher Education – Oct. 31

Latino Higher Education Leadership Institute – Nov. 1

PreK-12/HigherEducation Collaboration Symposium – Nov. 1

Early Bird Registration is May 31, 2024

Register at www.hacu.net Sponsorship, exhibitor and advertising opportunities are available.

Follow us @HACUNews on Social Media

Antonio R. Flores, Ph.D. President and CEO Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities

Ricardo Rivero Ortega, Ph.D.   Catedrático Universidad de Salamanca

Emma Hernández Flores, Ph.D. President Universidad de Iberoamérica

Guillermo Diaz Founder/CEO Conectado

Antonio Serrano, Ph.D. Executive Director de Aleph y Consejero de GRESOL Gresol International American School

Irma Becerra, Ph.D. President Marymount University

The Honorable Omar Aquino State Senator Illinois District 2

The Honorable Eloise Reyes Assemblymember California District 50 Majority Leader Emeritus California State Assembly

The Honorable Celina Villanueva State Senator Illinois District 12

María del Rocío Lucas Navas Consejera de Educación Junta de Castilla y León

Juan Manuel Corchado, Ph.D. Professor Universidad de Salamanca