NATIONAL HISPANIC-SERVING INSTITUTIONS WEEK
September 9-15, 2024
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 600 HSIs throughout the nation for their work and critical role in educating and empowering Hispanic youth. This year, HSIs Week will take place Sept. 9-15, 2024, 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 X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Threads. 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 33 | NUMBER 2 | SUMMER 2024
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
Graphic Designer Michael Lopez michael.lopez@hacu.net
HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES GOVERNING BOARD 2023-24
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
Former 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
Cynthia Larive
Chancellor University of California, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, California
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 Salt Lake Community College Salt Lake City, Utah
Frank D. Sánchez
President Manhattanville University Purchase, New York
Garnett S. Stokes
President
The University of New Mexico Albuquerque, New Mexico
Luke Visconti
Chairman and Founder Fair360, LLC West 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
2024 Spring Commencement at the
Subscription Rates:
The subscription rate for nonmembers of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) is $35 for one year and $50 for two years. For members, the rate is $28 for one year and $40 for two years. Information and subscription available at www.hacu.net.
ABOUT HACU
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain and school districts throughout the U.S. The mission of HACU is to champion hispanic success in higher education. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Association’s headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, California. Additional information is available at www.hacu.net.
HACU Washington D.C. Office
One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 430
Washington, D.C. 20036
Tel: (202) 833-8361
Fax: (202) 261-5082
Email: dcgr@hacu.net
HACU National Internship Program
One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 430
Washington, D.C. 20036
Tel: (202) 467-0893
Fax: (202) 496-9177
Email: hnip@hacu.net
HACU Western Regional Office 1107 9th Street, Suite 850 Sacramento, CA 95814
Tel: (916) 442-0392
Fax: (916) 446-4028
Email: wro@hacu.net
Writer Lupe Flores news@hacu.net
The summer issue of The Voice magazine is traditionally our commencement issue highlighting graduation ceremonies across the nation. We extend our congratulations to the students successfully completing their degree work, a significant step in creating a better future for themselves and their families. We also applaud the staff, faculty and leadership at colleges and universities who are an integral part of these accomplishments, committed to a shared mission serving every student.
HACU’s 14th International Conference recently held at the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain is also featured in this issue. The event brought together nearly 300 attendees to attend workshops and plenaries under the conference theme “Innovation and Technology for an Inclusive and Diverse Workforce.” A student track was also offered and included visits to area universities. We thank all our sponsors and partners for helping us make the event a success.
HACU Government Relations in Washington, D.C., was part of a joint effort in the Southwest to host roundtables at GateWay Community College and Central New Mexico Community College, in partnership with the Department of Commerce and UnidosUS. Leaders from Hispanic-Serving Institutions, state legislators and students in Arizona and New Mexico participated in the event. The $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act launched by the Biden Administration a year ago is a prime opportunity to prepare students for entry in to STEM fields, and member institutions will be primary producers of the future leaders in technology.
We were also very proud that HACU was formally recognized in a San Antonio City Council session on May 9, 2024, by Mayor Ron Nirenberg and District 7 Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito for its work representing HSIs. HACU was also recognized by the California Legislature on June 20, 2024, during the California Assembly session for its work representing HSIs. See the article in our HACU News section for more on these honors extended by the hometown of our National Headquarters and in Sacramento, where our Western Regional Office is located.
As always, we recognize new members in this issue, as well as newly appointed presidents and chancellors of member institutions. We encourage all our member institutions to celebrate HSIs Week, taking place Sept. 9-15, 2024, across the nation during Hispanic Heritage Month.
We hope your summer is a fruitful one, celebrating accomplishments and preparing for the opportunities to come.
Cordially,
Antonio R. Flores President and CEO
HACU recognized in San Antonio City Council session
HACU was recognized by the City of San Antonio, Texas, during a City Council session on May 9, 2024, formally recognized by Mayor Ron Nirenberg and District 7 Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito for representing Hispanic-Serving Institutions, having been headquartered in San Antonio since its inception.
HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores addressed members of the Council to thank them for the recognition and accepted a certificate on behalf of the Association. The certificate noted that, “As the only national association representing Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), HACU has made an abiding commitment to transform San Antonio into a hub for HSI initiatives, greatly benefiting the City and institutions worldwide.”
HACU was established in 1986 with a founding membership of eighteen colleges and universities including the following San Antonio higher education institutions: Our Lady of the Lake University, Palo Alto College, San Antonio College, St. Mary’s University, and the University of the Incarnate Word.
HACU Statement on Federal Study on HSI needs for Facility and Digital Infrastructure
HACU issued a statement on the Government Accountability Office Report released on the Facility and Digital Infrastructure needs of Hispanic-Serving Institutions. The full report is available at the following link.
“HACU applauds the Government Accountability Office for performing this, first of its kind, national study of the facility and digital infrastructure at Hispanic-Serving Institutions,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “The report makes evident the compelling needs of HSIs for infrastructure improvements that HACU has been advocating for the U.S. Congress to alleviate; it would elevate our voices to finally get the resources required for HSIs to update and upgrade their facilities to prepare the workforce of 21st Century America. We extend our gratitude to all the HSIs that took part in this historic study that made the GAO Report possible.”
HACU announces workshops of its premier national conference on Hispanic higher education in Colorado, Nov. 1-3, 2024
HACU has announced the workshops of its 38th Annual Conference, to be held at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Nov. 1-3, 2024, along with pre-conference events. More than 50 workshops offered under seven tracks on the theme “Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Reaching New Heights of Excellence and Equity,” will feature some of the best and most promising practices in the education of Hispanics and at HispanicServing Institutions.
HACU’s premier conference on Hispanic higher education will feature an Opening Plenary with HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores delivering the State of HACU Address, an International Plenary, a Town Hall and an Exhibit Hall. The HACU ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute (student track), offered for undergraduate students in conjunction with the conference, will be held Nov. 1-3. Students can apply to be sponsored to attend the conference through HACU’s Leadership in Residence Program through the deadline of June 21, 2024.
Pre-conference events will include the 23rd Annual Latino Higher Education Leadership Institute, “Utilizing High Impact and Equitable Programs to Achieve Organizational Excellence,” the 13th Annual Deans’ Forum on Hispanic Higher Education, “Leveraging Transformational Programs to Support Excellence and Equitable Outcomes,” the Second Annual Women’s Leadership Symposium, and the 10th Annual PreK-12/Higher Education Collaboration Symposium.
For a complete agenda and list of workshops or to register online for HACU’s 38th Annual Conference, visit hacu.net. Advertising, Exhibitor, and Sponsorship opportunities are available.
HACU and Google partner on Latinx Student Leadership Summit in Chicago, Ill.
HACU partnered with Google to host the 8th Annual Google Latinx Student Leadership Summit at the Google offices in Chicago, Ill., on April 19-21, 2024. Fifty undergraduate Latinx student leaders from across the nation with a passion for technology participated in leadership development activities during the three-day summit.
“Juntxs: Our Latinx Journey in Tech” served as the guiding theme with the agenda including breakout discussions fostering community within their Familia Groups, keynote speakers, networking with the Latinx Googler Network (from HOLA and Talent Outreach representatives), HACU, and Computing Alliance of HispanicServing Institutions.
The summit was focused on four key goals: equipping students with hands-on workshops to prepare them for successful tech careers, cultivating students’ unique “Latinx leadership” styles, showcasing Google’s dedication to supporting the Latinx tech talent pipeline, and deepening the connection between Googlers and Google’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Now in its eighth year, the Latinx Student Leadership Summit (formally known as the Hispanic Student Leadership Summit), was created as an effort to bring Latinx student leaders together to share innovative and creative best practices with one another, as well as collaborate with Google’s Latinx leadership to benefit universities, organizations and communities.
HACU releases 2024 Legislative Agenda
HACU released its 2024 Legislative Agenda for the 118th Congress to address Hispanic higher education needs, as well as PK-12 support, funding and pipeline issues into higher education. HACU’s top priorities are:
• Equitable funding for HispanicServing Institutions across all federal agencies
• Increasing authorization levels for Title V, Part A and Title V, Part B, especially in light of the rapid growth in the number of HSIs (a 5% increase in the past year) that educate the nation’s future workforce
• Reauthorization of the Farm Bill to strengthen the capacity of HSIs and Hispanic-Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities, and the creation of a new HSACUs Land Grant category of institutions in the reauthorized Farm Bill
• Immigration Reform, including immediate passage of the Dream Act followed by a Comprehensive Immigration Reform bill
• Doubling the Pell Grant to $13,000 to cover expenses beyond tuition, as well as extending eligibility for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) eligible and Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
• Establishing an HSIs Capital Financing Program as part of the Higher Education Act reauthorization to provide federally guaranteed loans at zero to nominal interest rates to finance infrastructure improvements at HSIs
• Hispanic Educational Resources and Empowerment (HERE) Act, supporting partnerships and collaborations between HSIs and Hispanic-Serving School Districts
Click here to download HACU’s Legislative Agenda.
HACU hosts Emerging Leaders event with Southern Connecticut
State University
HACU hosted an Emerging Leaders’ Summit on April 5, 2024, on the campus of Southern Connecticut State University. The event brought together over 75 students from area colleges and universities to meet with professionals and corporate representatives to learn more about career opportunities, tips for resume writing, interviewing, and securing internships.
Opening remarks were given by Kelvin Rutledge, Ph.D., SCSU associate vice president for institutional strategies & change management. Corporate partners that held career preparation workshops and panels included: City of New Haven, New Haven Hiring Initiative, Google, Peralta Design, Russell Tobin and USDA. The Summit concluded with closing remarks from Luis Sanchez, HACU student services manager.
HACU and NBCUniversal Telemundo renew partnership
HACU reaffirmed its commitment with NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises to further expand the Telemundo Academy to five new markets for 2024-2025; New York City, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Phoenix, and Salt Lake City. The partnership brings the academy to HSIs providing educational resources, career development opportunities, and mentorship programs to Latino students hoping to enter the television, communications, and media industries both in front of the camera and behind.
The signing between HACU and Telemundo took place before HACU’s 29th Annual National Capitol Forum in Washington, D.C. Luis Rosero, vice president of corporate and external affairs at NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises and HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, signed on behalf of both organizations.
HACU, UnidosUS hold Roundtable Discussions with U.S. Department of Commerce at GateWay Community College, Central New Mexico Community College
HACU and UnidosUS held roundtable discussions with U.S. Department of Commerce at GateWay Community College, Central City Campus in Phoenix, Arizona on April 23, 2024, and Central New Mexico Community College on May 31, 2024. Deputy Secretary Don Graves, and Under Secretary Laurie E. Locascio, met with Hispanic-Serving Institution presidents, state officials, leaders of community-based organizations and students to discuss creating access to careers in advanced manufacturing through partnership with the Department of Commerce.
The discussion addressed developing cross-sector partnerships among HSIs, community-based organizations, and industry/employers to provide learning and training opportunities to meet the need for advanced manufacturing workers. Grant opportunities for higher education institutions and community-based organizations available through the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act launched by the Biden Administration a year ago, authorizes $174 billion for research, development, and workforce improvement in semi-conductor chip manufacturing, STEM and other fields through Fiscal Year 2027.
“HSIs educate and graduate a growing diverse student body that will serve as the economic foundation of future economic growth and prosperity for the nation,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “Maintaining our position as a technical leader in the world is dependent on a well-educated workforce, and grants and funding to HSIs from the Department of Commerce will be a significant part of how we ensure STEM student success in the classroom and beyond.”
HACU announces students for HNIP Ambassador Program
HACU has announced the 11 students to be HACU National Internship Program Ambassadors. The students selected served in federal internships during the spring semester through HNIP.
The student from the following institutions will serve as HNIP Ambassadors:
Claire Chang
California State University, Fullerton
Victoria Macali
California State University, Long Beach
Carolina Porto
Florida Atlantic University
David Munoz
George Mason University
Joseph Dante Castaldi
Kansas State University
Leah Bland
Marymount University
Alondra Labastida Campos McDaniel College
Carlos Fernandez
Nevada State University
Adriana Piñero Torres
University of Puerto Rico, Humacao
Nataly Altagracia
University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras
Jerson Miranda
University of the District of Columbia
The HNIP Student Ambassador Program serves as a leadership opportunity for students who received internships through HNIP to share their program experiences with their campus communities. To qualify, applicants must have interned for at least one full session with HNIP and be willing to participate in public speaking engagements promoting the program.
HACU recognized by California Legislature
HACU’s Western Regional Office and President and CEO Antonio R. Flores were recognized for representing Hispanic-Serving Institutions by the California Legislature on June 20, 2024, in Sacramento, California. Assemblymember Eloise Gomez Reyes made the introduction to members of the California Assembly during their meeting session and recognized HACU’s efforts in advancing Hispanic higher education in the state.
The recognition followed visits where Flores met with state representatives to discuss priorities of the Association. Meetings were held with Sen. Steven Glazer (SD-07), Asst. Dep. Cabinet Secretary Michael. B. Waife, Sen. Monique Limon (SD-19), Asm. David Alvarez (AD-80), Asm. Eloise Gomez Reyes (AD-50), Asm. Tri Ta (AD-70), Asm. Tasha Boerner (AD-77), Asm. Jacquie Irwin (AD42), and Sen. Josh Newman (SD-29).
Following the meetings, HACU held a reception with leadership of the Association and senior staff for the purpose of building alliances and introducing the Western Regional Office in Sacramento, California. The event brought together HACU supporters from the Sacramento area.
Send us Your News and Pictures
HACU-member institutions can send news, photos and their logo for publishing consideration for the fall magazine edition. Deadline is July 29, 2024. Send to news@hacu.net.
HACU on the Road visits Madrid, Spain
HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and staff were in Madrid, Spain on April 26, 2024, as part of its HACU on the Road tour, held at Hotel Meliá Serrano for invited participants. The event brought together members of the Madrid community and state leaders from the surrounding area. HACU President Flores discussed the state of Hispanic
higher education, priority issues for HSIs, and HACU programs and initiatives. Other topics discussed included supporting Hispanic student success, advocacy, and international 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 Hispanic-Serving School Districts, corporate leaders, and other supporters of Hispanic higher education.
Community College and University leaders join HACU in Spain visits
HACU staff and educational leaders from Community Colleges in the United States were in Spain from April 15-19, 2024, visiting locations in Madrid, Basque Country, and Valladolid. This initiative, organized in collaboration between HACU, the Spanish Service for the Internationalization of Education (SEPIE) and the U.S. Embassy in Spain, seeks to strengthen educational ties between the two countries.
Approximately 14 faculty, staff and administrators from the following HACU-member institutions were part of the academic trip that included visits to Tknika, Centre for Research and Applied Innovation in the Basque System of Vocational Education and Training, the Leioa School of Hotel and Restaurant Management, and IES La Paloma.
Following the visit from community college representatives, a second group of 15 faculty, staff and administrators from universities in the U.S. joined HACU staff for an educational tour from April 22-26, 2024. The main objectives of the visit were to raise awareness of various aspects of the Spanish and American higher education systems, good practices to contribute to sustainability, university research projects, and activities for the dissemination of Spanish. The academic trip included visits to the Universities of Barcelona, Castilla-La Mancha and Seville.
MEMBER NEWS
Welcome New Members
Hispanic-Serving Institutions
New Mexico State University
Doña Ana Community College (N.M.)
Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (Kan.)
Associate Member Institution
Macalester College (Minn.)
Riverland Community College (Minn.)
Western Governors University (Utah)
New Presidents
California
Ronald S. Rochon, Ph.D. President California State University, Fullerton
Kimberly R. Rogers, Ph.D. President Contra Costa College
Breeda McGrath, Ph.D. President Pacific Oaks College
Gilbert J. Contreras, Jr., Ph.D. President San Bernardino Valley College
New Mexico
Neil Woolf, Ed.D. President
New Mexico Highlands University
Mahyar Amouzegar, Ph.D. President
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Partner Institution
Gordon State College (Ga.)
Hispanic-Serving School District
San Diego Unified School District (Calif.)
International Member Institutions
Hispania, escuela de español (Spain)
Universidad de Monterrey (Mexico)
Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca (Spain)
Faculty/Staff Affiliates
Dr. Gloria P. Martinez, Texas State University (Texas)
New York
Texas
Manuel Martínez, Ph.D. President Dominican University New York
Winston Erevelles, Ph.D. President St. Mary’s University
Vermont
Lt.Gen. John J. Broadmeadow President Norwich University
Wisconsin
Utah
Anthony Cruz, Ed.D. President Milwaukee Area Technical College
Greg F. Peterson, Ed.D. President
Salt Lake Community College
COMMENCEMENT NEWS SECTION
Arizona Jill Biden speaks at Mesa Community College commencement
First lady Jill Biden, Ed.D., delivered remarks as special guest speaker at Mesa Community College’s 2024 commencement ceremony. Biden has been a classroom teacher for more than 30 years and is a long-time advocate for higher education, particularly community colleges, and has taught English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College since 2009. Biden visited MCC in February 2023, where she highlighted affordable community college programs like Mesa College Promise.
Over 540 students participated in the college’s graduation ceremony, with more than 2,500 students successfully earning certificates of completion and associate degrees during the 20232024 academic year.
Nearly 20,700 ASU students recieve graduate, undergraduate degrees
The largest graduating class in the history of Arizona State University celebrated their new degrees during spring 2024 commencement ceremonies on May 6, with nearly 20,700 ASU students graduating this semester, comprised of 13,800 undergraduates and 6,900 graduate students.
Walter F. Parkes, co-founder of Dreamscape Learn, an education technology company that has partnered with ASU for extendedreality biology labs, received an honorary degree at the undergraduate ceremony.
California Allan Hancock College celebrates graduates
at 2024 commencement ceremony
Allan Hancock College celebrated thousands of graduating students at the college’s 103rd commencement ceremony, with more than 570 participating on May 24. This year, 1,516 students earned or will earn a degree pending the successful completion of their classes. Hancock’s graduates earned a total of 2,771 associate degrees and 2,600 certificates of achievement across 125 different majors. The 103rd graduating class had the highest transfer rate to California Polytechnic State University (nearly 67%) for the 23rd year in a row. A total of 655 graduates received honors for having 3.5-3.99 GPAs, and 79 received honors for 4.0 GPAs.
CSUCI holds two commencement ceremonies
Over 2,300 students graduated with more than 1,550 participating in California State University Channel Islands’ 2024 commencement ceremonies on May 18. Honorary doctorates were presented to Ventura County Community Foundation CEO Vanessa Bechtel, first-generation college graduate and supporter of higher education, and to former CSUCI counseling and psychological services counselor Angela Timmons. Both community leaders were honored for their continued support of CSUCI and its students.
CSUF class of 2024 commencement celebrate more than 13,000 graduates
More than 120,000 attendees visited Cal State Fullerton’s campus to celebrate more than 13,000 graduates at 12 in-person ceremonies over May 20-23. CSUF alumnus Roy Choi was recognized with an honorary doctorate for his dedication to building community and success in business leadership, and was named to the TIME 100 list of the most influential people in the world in 2011 and 2016. Of the 13,347 2024 graduates, 11,390 were undergraduates and 1,957 were graduate students.
CSUN celebrates class of 2024
More than 11,000 graduating students crossed the stage in front of California State University, Northridge’s iconic university library as CSUN celebrated its 2024 commencement. An estimated 10,924 students, including 8,929 undergraduate and 1,995 graduate students, were eligible to participate in the exercises May 11, beginning with the university’s honors convocation, and concluding May 20 with seven commencement celebrations.
rates, visit www.hacu.net/TheVoice or send an email to news@hacu.net
Honorary doctorates were conferred on Andrew Anagnost, president and CEO of Autodesk Inc., and Robert Taylor, president and CEO of the private equity firm Centinela Capital Partners, both alumni of the university. Also receiving honorary doctorates were CSU Trustee Emerita Debra Farar, who has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from CSUN, and David Nazarian, CEO and founder of the private investment firm Nimes Capital.
More than 1,300 Bobcats at UC Merced commencement weekend
More than 1,300 students participated in UC Merced’s Spring 2024 Commencement, celebrated with three ceremonies. The first awarded 27 master’s and 67 doctorates, the second awarded 693 bachelor's from the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, and the third awarded 520 bachelor's from the School of Engineering and School of Natural Sciences.
Speakers included UC Merced Professor Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, former director of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science, President and CEO of AltaMed Health Services Corporation Cástulo de la Rocha, and Charles Nies, UC Merced’s vice chancellor for student affairs, recently named chancellor of the University of Minnesota, Duluth.
University of La Verne celebrates class of 2024
Nearly 1,700 graduates celebrated baccalaureate, hooding and commencement ceremonies, celebrating the University of La Verne’s spring graduates on May 25.
Thousands of attendees filled Ortmayer Athletics Complex on the university’s campus in La Verne, where transformational leadership expert Yasmin Davidds addressed master’s and doctoral students, while alumnus and local human services champion Ciriaco “Cid” Pinedo addressed undergraduates, including the first cohort of RN to BSN students.
Colorado FRCC hosts largest commencement ceremony to date
Front Range Community College hosted a record-breaking commencement uniting graduates from all three campuses for a collective celebration, the first in the school’s 56-year history. Approximately 46% of FRCC students are the first in their family to go to college, with more than 5,000 degrees and certificates awarded to almost 4,000 graduates for the 2023-2024 academic year. This graduating class’s youngest graduate is 17 and the oldest 77, with 37% students of color from 13 countries including the U.S., and with 89 students who are military veterans. The keynote speaker for the 2024 commencement was John Tayer, President and CEO of the Boulder Chamber.
Connecticut
University of Bridgeport celebrates 114th commencement
The University of Bridgeport hosted its 2024 commencement ceremonies on May 4 for 1,200 graduates, with 500 undergraduate degrees and more than 700 graduate-level degrees conferred. Commencement speakers included U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, Connecticut State Senator Herron Gaston, board of trustees chair Ann B. Clark., and civil rights attorney Benjamin L. Crump.
Illinois
Over 1,000 students honored at Lewis University May commencement
Lewis University celebrated May commencement ceremonies for more than 1,000 students May 10-11, beginning with two graduate degree ceremonies honoring nearly 450 students receiving doctoral degrees, certificates of advanced study, and master’s degrees, as well as graduates of adult accelerated programs. Two undergraduate degree ceremonies honored more than 600 degree recipients.
MCC recognizes 2024 Graduates in commencement ceremony
McHenry County College recognized 709 graduates at its commencement ceremony on May 11, with 194 earning honors or high honors with a GPA of 3.50 or greater. The students represented 78 different programs, with associate in arts and science, registered nursing, basic nursing assistant, and emergency medical technician producing the most graduates. The college also recognized 54 high school students who graduated from the dual degree program.
Over 1,800 students honored at SIU Carbondale commencement
Nearly 1,850 Southern Illinois University Carbondale students were celebrated during spring 2024 commencement on May 10-11. As of late April, there are 1,844 candidates for degrees and certificates, including 1,193 candidates for bachelor’s degrees, 387 candidates for master’s degrees, 106 candidates for doctoral degrees, 77 law degree candidates, 79 candidates for associate degrees and two candidates for undergraduate certificates.
The oldest candidate is 70 years old, and there are two 19-year-old degree candidates, with graduates representing 10 different countries. A total of 673 students who participated in commencement exercises wore special medallions and honor cords during the ceremonies that reflect significant academic achievement, including 257 cum laude distinction, 174 magna cum laude, and 127 summa cum laude.
Waubonsee Community College celebrates 2024 commencement
Waubonsee Community College celebrated the class of 2024 with commencement ceremonies on May 11, with 983 individuals earning degrees during the 2023-2024 academic year. Of that number, 30 students graduated with two or more degrees, 63 students earned presidential honors of a 4.0 grade point average, and 292 earned academic honors of a GPA between 3.5 and 3.9, with an average GPA of 3.24. This year’s commencement speaker was Jeff Craig, superintendent of West Aurora School District #129, and notable graduates include three siblings from Montgomery; Soad, Mohamad and Hadeel Ajaj, all first-generation college students.
New Jersey Montclair State University class of 2024 celebrates graduation
Two commencement exercises were held to celebrate 3,648 graduates from 13 colleges and schools that make up Montclair State University. The graduates hail from 26 states and eight countries, with more than 860 earning advanced degrees. Montclair graduates included many who are the first in their families to attend college and earn degrees, including the Povolo quintuplets - Victoria, Ludovico, Ashley, Michael and Marcus - who made New Jersey history as they graduated from the same college at the same time. 72-year-old Rosalyn Coppola finished what she started 53 years ago when she first began taking college classes, receiving a bachelor’s through the university’s Degree Completion Program.
New Jersey City University honors 1,667 graduates in 2024 commencement ceremony
New Jersey City University awarded 1,667 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in a double ceremony during its 2024 commencement exercises on May 15. NJCU Interim President Andrés Acebo presided over his second commencement ceremony, and Bettina L. Love, Ph.D., served as commencement speaker and received an honorary doctorate. NJCU conferred 1,228 undergraduate, 420 graduate, and 19 doctoral degrees during the two ceremonies — an 8.2 percent increase in bachelor’s degrees from 2023 and a 3.4 percent increase in graduate degrees.
New York
Brooklyn College celebrates class of 2024
Brooklyn College’s commencement on May 24 featured awardwinning filmmaker, philanthropist, and activist Abigail E. Disney, who was awarded an honorary doctorate and served as the keynote speaker; Brooklyn College Foundation Trustee Carol L. Zicklin ’61, who received the Presidential Medal of Honor; and valedictorian for the class, Rhema Mills. The college conferred 2,695 baccalaureate degrees, 1,046 master’s degrees, and 60 advanced certificates. Brooklyn College students come from 114 countries from around the world, speak 66 languages, with Hispanic or Latino students earning 612 of the baccalaureate degrees, 198 master’s degrees, and 28 advanced certificates.
New York City College of Technology’s 84th commencement exercises
City Tech, CUNY’s 84th commencement exercises took place June 5, featuring Jocelynne Rainey, president and CEO of Brooklyn Org and a leader in New York City’s nonprofit sector as keynote speaker. Elaine Suarez addressed City Tech’s Class of 2023-2024 as valedictorian, and Hannah Stauss was selected as salutatorian. Both students graduated summa cum laude. Nearly 2,500 graduates from the class of 2023-2024 attended, with over 50% receiving baccalaureate degrees.
New York
New York Institute of Technology holds 63rd commencement
More than 6,000 graduates, family members, and friends joined faculty, staff and administration at New York Institute of Technology’s Long Island campus to celebrate its 63rd annual commencement on May 19. The event celebrated 2,392 candidates for graduation from 67 countries and throughout the U.S., 26% of whom are earning undergraduate degrees and the remainder earning graduate, medical, professional, or post-graduate degrees. New York Tech also conferred its first Ph.D. degrees to three candidates enrolled in its combined osteopathic medicine, medical and biological sciences program. Twenty-seven members of the class of 2024 are veterans. The youngest undergraduate student is 20 years old, the oldest 63. Among those students earning graduate, medical, professional, or post-graduate degrees, the youngest is 21 years old and the oldest is 69.
Rockland Community College celebrates its 64th commencement
Rockland Community College held its 64th commencement ceremony on May 20 honoring the academic achievements of its spring 2024 graduates as well as those from summer and fall 2023, with 500 graduates and over 2,000 guests attending. Commencement guests included County Executive Ed Day and Congressman Michael Lawler, with addresses provided by Rockland Community College President Lester Sandres Rápalo, and Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and College Diversity Officer Alfredo Medina, Jr. at Bennington College in Vermont.
North Carolina Johnson & Wales University holds 19th commencement exercises
The 19th commencement exercises for the Charlotte Campus of Johnson & Wales University celebrated the achievements of 316 undergraduate and 27 graduate students, which included students from the U.S., Barbados, Colombia, Jamaica, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Ivory Coast. Friends and family gathered to honor graduates from the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Hospitality Management, the College of Food Innovation & Technology, the College of Business, the College of Health & Wellness, and the College of Professional Studies. The student commencement address was given Adalis Vazquez, the first in her family to earn a four-year college degree.
Oregon
Western Oregon commencement features congresswoman Salinas as speaker
Western Oregon University held its 2024 commencement on June 15 with over 1,237 students eligible to graduate. Nearly 50 percent of Western students are the first in their families to graduate with a four-year degree.
Western’s commencement speaker, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas, is a first-generation student herself. The daughter of a Mexican immigrant, she is one of the first Latinas to represent Oregon in Congress and is an advocate for labor unions, environmental groups, and reproductive rights organizations. Salinas currently serves on the House Agriculture and House Science, Space, and Technology Committees, and is co-chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus.
Tennessee
Southern
Adventist University recognizes 2024 graduates
Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tenn., recognized 374 graduates at its spring commencement on May 5, 2024. Overall, 343 students earned undergraduate degrees, with 15 completing two majors or degrees. Master’s degrees were bestowed on another three, with seven having two emphases or degrees. In this graduating class, 24% were Hispanic and 20% were first-generation graduates. There are more than 44,000 alumni who have graduated from Southern Adventist University since it was founded in 1892. The institution provides more than 3,100 students degrees ranging from associate to doctoral and is recognized as the second most diverse regional university in the South.
Texas
El Paso Community College honors its spring graduates
El Paso Community College held spring commencement exercises on May 10, 2024, awarding a total of 2,177 associate degrees and certificates during two ceremonies. EPCC President William Serrata, Ph.D. served as master of ceremonies, with Leila Melendez, CEO of Workforce Solutions Borderplex serving as commencement speaker. EPCC has more than 50 years of providing higher education, awarding more than 100,000 degrees in its history.
More than 6,650 graduate from the University of Houston during spring commencement
The University of Houston’s spring commencement celebrated 6,655 graduates who ranged in ages from 17 to 72, with 4,770 bachelor’s, 1,297 master’s, 164 doctorates and 424 professional certificates awarded. The 2024 commencement was the first for graduates from the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, and the first for the class of doctor of nursing practice students to graduate from the Andy and Barbara Gessner College of Nursing.
Lone Star College confers over 11,000 degrees at annual commencement
Lone Star College held graduation ceremonies May 9-11 for all eight colleges and its first Spanish commencement ceremony on May 18, awarding 11,236 degrees and certificates, nearly a 16% increase over spring 2023. LSC awarded 264 baccalaureate degrees, 9,633 associate degrees and 1,339 certifications. LSC recognized nearly 70 Spanish-speaking graduates and their families at the first Spanish commencement ceremony, and the bachelor of applied science in emergency management program celebrated its first 13 graduates on May 9. Over 1,000 high school earned associate degrees weeks before receiving their diplomas through the LSC Early College High School program where students earn a high school diploma and an associate degree or at least 60 credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree simultaneously.
Texas UIW celebrates spring class of 2024
The University of the Incarnate Word conferred degrees to 1,154 professional, doctoral, graduate and undergraduate students at the spring commencement ceremony on May 11 during two separate ceremonies. Despite lost time in the community due to COVID, the graduating spring class of 2024 completed 58,395 hours of community service, providing an economic impact of $1,864,136.
Former San Antonio mayor Henry Cisneros delivers OLLU spring commencement address
Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and San Antonio mayor Henry Cisneros delivered Our Lady of the Lake University’s spring commencement address on Thursday, May 9, at Freeman Coliseum, marking 50 years of service to the city and the nation.
Since first elected to public office in 1975, Cisneros has served San Antonio as a city councilman, mayor, entrepreneur, business leader and chairman of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. He served his country as an infantry officer in the U.S. Army and as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Virgina Marymount University’s 73rd annual commencement ceremonies honor class of 2024
Nearly 930 students received their degrees during Marymount University’s 73rd annual commencement ceremonies, organized by Marymount’s three colleges for students who qualified for graduation from the fall 2023, spring 2024 and summer 2024 semesters, as well as students who graduated in summer 2023 but were not eligible to participate in last year’s ceremonies. Also held were the annual nursing pinning ceremony and two hooding ceremonies for students earning their doctorates in cybersecurity, business intelligence, education, nursing, physical therapy and occupational therapy.
Guest speakers included Christopher Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton; Raul Fernandez, president and CEO of DXC Technology, and vice chairman and co-owner of Monumental Sports & Entertainment; and Marlene Malek, chair of Friends of Cancer Research, a 1979 Marymount nursing graduate, and vice chair of the university’s board of trustees.
Washington Eastern Washington University’s 2024 commencement ceremonies
More than 2,100 graduates donned caps and gowns to celebrate their accomplishments on June 15 at The Podium in downtown Spokane at three ceremonies spread throughout the day. Master’s and bachelor’s degree recipients from Eastern’s four academic colleges were honored.
President Shari McMahan and Provost Jonathan Anderson offered congratulations at each of the events, and faculty member Stuart Steiner, founder and director of EWU’s Center for Network Computing, was honored with the Trustees’ Medal, the university’s highest form of recognition for faculty achievement. Former chairwoman of the Spokane Tribal Business Council Carol Evans received an honorary doctorate from EWU for outstanding contributions to her community, her tribe and the Pacific Northwest region. Evans own daughter graduated from EWU with a Master of Public Health degree earlier in the day.
Heritage University class of 2024 commencement
Undergraduate and graduate degrees were conferred upon students graduating from the Heritage Toppenish campus and the Tri-Cities regional site, with 197 students earning degrees this year.
Philanthropist and benefactor of Heritage University Jim Pigott presented the commencement address. Pigott and his wife established the Gay and Jim Pigott Nursing Endowment at Heritage and Seattle Children’s Hospital, and the Moccasin Lake Foundation Scholarship, as well as funding numerous campus projects. A posthumous honorary doctorate was awarded to professor emeritus of education Edwin Rousculp.
HACU’s 14th International Conference in Salamanca, Spain
HACU’s 14th International Conference, held June 3-5, 2024, at the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain, brought together more than 275 college and university leaders, academics, staff and students from across the globe to engage in workshops and networking sessions bridging geographic and language barriers to foster international collaboration.
The three-day conference was anchored by three plenary sessions on each day, accompanied by workshops and visits to local Spanish universities. A student track allowed 28 students to join in the general sessions, participate in student specific workshops, and tour regional universities.
On June 3, the International Conference launched with an Opening Ceremony featuring remarks by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, who provided a welcome address, followed by Junta de Castilla y León Consejera of Education María del Rocío Lucas Navas; Salamanca Mayor Carlos Manuel Garcia Carbayo; Chancellor of Alamo Colleges District and HACU Governing Board Chair Mike Flores; and University of Salamanca Rector Juan Manuel Corchado Rodríguez.
Plenary Session I, “International Higher Education: A Driver for Innovation and Workforce Diversity,” followed the ceremony and featured President Flores in conversation with Universidad de Salamanca Vice President Raúl Sánchez Prieto, moderated by Universidad de Iberoamérica President Emma Hernández Flores. A Q&A session with the audience concluded the first plenary.
On June 4, Plenary Session II, “Generative AI: Opportunities and Threats for Global Higher Education,” took place as a conversation
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del Rocío Lucas Navas; HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores; University of Salamanca Rector Juan Manuel Corchado Rodríguez; and Chancellor of Alamo Colleges District Mike Flores.
moderated by Universidad Rey Juan Carlos dean of law and political science faculty member María Teresa Enciso AlonsoMuñumer featuring panelists University of Salamanca professor of computer science and artificial intelligence Juan Manuel Corchado Rodríguez, Ph.D.; Conectado, Inc. founder and CEO Guillermo Diaz; and Gresol International American School Executive Director Antonio Serrano, Ph.D.
Salamanca Mayor Carlos Manuel Garcia Carbayo; Junta de Castilla
León Consejera of Education María
Plenary Session III, “Forging a Common Policy Agenda for PanHispanic International Education,” kicked off the final day of the conference on June 5, featuring Illinois State Senator Omar Aquino; California State Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes; and Castilla y León Ministry of Education Director of Universities and Research Blanca Ares González in a session framed as a conversation and moderated by President Flores.
The student track sessions throughout the conference included “Ping Pong Works En Both Lenguas,” “Developing Cultural Intelligence and Global Competence through Interdisciplinary Experiential Learning: A Case Study in Zamora, Spain,” “The Importance of Mentoring Experiences for Underrepresented Students,” “Charlas sin Verguenza in Higher Education- STEM,” and “Mi CASA es su CASA: Culture, Community -Building, and Creativity.”
Prior to the start of the conference, President Flores was recognized by the City of Salamanca and Mayor Carlos Manuel Garcia Carbayo on June 2, 2024, as a Distinguished Guest. HACU senior leadership and fellows of HACU’s Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo, who were in Spain to complete their international seminar, also attended the ceremony.
“HACU is honored to receive this gracious recognition from the City of Salamanca,” said Flores. “Through the partnership with the University of Salamanca, the Royal Spanish Academy, and the Junta of Castile and León on the Spanish Certificate program, HACU aims to strengthen the Spanish language skills of students to create more opportunities for their professional success.” HACU recently developed an MOU partnership with the University of Salamanca, the Royal Spanish Academy, and the Junta of Castile and Leon to create a Spanish Certificate program.
The fifth
HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores recognized by Mayor Carlos Manuel Garcia Carbayo as a Distinguished Guest.
HACU President and CEO Antonio. R. Flores, Universidad de Iberoamérica President Emma Hernández Flores, and Universidad de Salamanca Vice President Raúl Sánchez Prieto.
Students attending the student track of the International Conference. Gresol International American School Executive Director Antonio Serrano; Universidad Rey Juan Carlos Dean of law María Teresa Enciso Alonso-Muñumer; University of Salamanca Rector Juan Manuel Corchado; and Conectado, Inc. founder and CEO Guillermo Diaz.
Castilla y León Ministry of Education Director of Universities and Research Blanca Ares González; HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores; California State Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes; and Illinois State Senator Omar Aquino.
International Conference attendees in a workshop session.
cohort of HACU’s Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo.
What’s in a Name? Much More for a Hispanic-Serving Institution
By Dr. Larry Hlavenka Jr.
When Bergen Community College President Eric M. Friedman, Ph.D., arrived on campus in 2021, he quickly learned that students, faculty and staff prized the College’s standing as a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) as a point of pride in Bergen’s overall identity. With more than 40 percent of Bergen students identifying as Hispanic, the College easily surpassed the 25 percent benchmark for institutions to earn the designation. Though HSIs gain access to opportunities such as specific federal grants, Friedman saw even more potential in the designation for Bergen.
“A college becomes an HSI based on a percentage of an enrollment,” he said. “But the real conversation starts when colleges embrace their status as an HSI to provide customized supports for their Hispanic student population. Being an HSI means so much more than a number - it’s a promise to our Hispanic community.”
As a central focus in Friedman’s commitment to championing initiatives related to diversity, equity, inclusion and belongingness, he worked with members of the College’s Hispanic community to develop a comprehensive strategy of tailored initiatives. Among them, Bergen deepened its ties to the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. The advocacy organization provides access to programs, initiatives and funding for students, including an internship program with the federal government.
To connect students with the HACU National Internship Program, HACU executive director Dianna Vasquez visited Bergen in each of the past three years, hosting an information session at the College’s main campus.
“Bergen is a pillar in New Jersey for championing Hispanic success,” she said during a visit. “What’s wonderful about an institution like Bergen is that by its design, the institution is doing it every day in an effortless way.”
Two Bergen students have secured internships as part of the program: Askar Mirza, whom HACU placed with the United States Agency for International Development within the Office of Management, Policy, Budget and Performance, and Edgardo Aguilar, who will soon intern at the Department of Justice. Aguilar, a finance major who recently graduated from Bergen, credited Friedman and college leaders Gloria Cevallos, Amparo Codding and Cesarina Vinas for their assistance.
“Their dedication to fostering real-world learning environments has had a profound impact on my academic journey,” he said. “Thanks to their support, I feel empowered to apply my knowledge in such a meaningful and impactful setting at the Department of Justice.”
College leaders and students such as Aguilar have also deepened Bergen’s relationship with HACU by attending the organization’s annual conference. The events, held in San Diego and Chicago the last two years, provide an opportunity for attendees to present on best practices, network with colleagues and learn how colleges can best support Hispanic students. The Bergen Community College Foundation sponsored scholarships to enable to students’ attendance.
Bergen Community College staff member Gloria Cevallos led a parade of flags during Hispanic Heritage Month last fall.
“National conferences open doors for students, exposing them to learning opportunities and networks they would not otherwise have access,” Friedman said. “Colleges have a responsibility to pursue these types of initiatives if they seek to live their mission.”
To continue expanding the HACU partnership, Friedman has appointed Assistant Vice President of Financial Aid and Compliance Yessika Garcia-Guzman, Ph.D., and Bergen Community College at the Meadowlands Campus Executive Joao Sedycias, Ph.D., to serve as official liaisons to the organization.
Friedman has also embraced the College’s standing as an HSI by encouraging leaders to expand on-campus Hispanic cultural programming throughout the year. Formerly, most of Bergen’s Hispanic-focused celebration and recognition events occurred only during October’s Hispanic Heritage Month.
“Hispanic culture remains an important thread in Bergen’s identity,” he said. “We do not just celebrate Hispanic culture, or any other culture, within the confines of a single month. We embrace and celebrate our diversity every day - it’s woven into who we are.”
The LatinxCEO initiative, which offers skill-building workshops, internships and industry-recognized certifications for students, also
reflects the institution’s focus on Hispanic outreach. The College launched LatinxCEO as a workforce development initiative that targets underrepresentation in the workplace. Bergen leaders work closely with members of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, which maintains its headquarters at Bergen Community College at the Meadowlands, to create learning experiences as part of the program. The Meadowlands location also houses the College’s Hispanic-focused business incubator that targets assisting early-stage entrepreneurs in the region.
The embrace of the HSI designation remains part of Friedman’s focus on creating an environment of belongingness at the college. The idea appears throughout organizational ethos in items such as the mission, vision, values, presidential goals and strategic plan. The President’s Advisory Council on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion leads many efforts related to belongingness, including sponsoring projects such as a collegewide climate survey to uncover how the institution could further enhance its inclusivity efforts. In consecutive years, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine has recognized Bergen as one of the “most promising places to work in community colleges.”
“Everyone belongs at Bergen,” he said.
HACU and UTSA present the 2024 Laptop Award
By Thomas Cooper, UTSA Tech Solutions
HACU and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) presented UTSA student Eric Lopez with a new laptop during the 2024 Access College & Excel Celebration of Excellence (ACE). The event was held at UTSA’s Downtown campus in the Buena Vista Building attended by UTSA staff, community members, students and their families. “We take great pride in our students, and their success, and we work diligently with each student, helping them along their unique journey,” said Senior Program Coordinator of ACE Scholars Carlos Lopez.
UTSA and HACU have been committed to uplifting students for over two decades at the university, a Hispanic-Serving Institution,
by addressing the digital divide and supplying students with new equipment. The laptop, provided by UTSA Tech Solutions, was initially awarded through funding by a Gateway Computer Company grant and has provided students with essential technology since 1999. The award committee conducts its search for recipients through an essay competition. The Access College and Excel Scholars (ACE) program considers students with a GPA of at least 2.50 and have demonstrated strong community and campus involvement while at UTSA.
On receiving the 2024 HACU Laptop Award, Lopez credited his commitment to the ACE Scholars Program and Bold Scholars as galvanizing his continued success at UTSA. He is a student in the Honors College and economics student at the Alvarez College of Business, and took part in a unique experiential learning opportunity in study abroad to Costa Rica. Lopez hopes to continue building on his accomplishments at UTSA as he continues his studies and pursues internship opportunities. He will utilize the mentorship and community he has experienced in preparation for his transition between academia and his career in the finance sector.
“It is always an honor to meet the students and their families each year during this event,” said Associate Vice President of Technology Compliance and Community Engagement Vanessa Hammler Kenon, Ed.D. “The students are always excited and thankful to receive top-of-the-line computer equipment.” With 2024 marking 25 years since the award began, HACU and UTSA will continue to support student success through this partnership in the years to come.
(Left to right) HACU’s Senior Vice President for Programs and Operations Lisa Alcorta, Ph.D.; student Eric Lopez; Associate Vice President Of Technology Compliance and Community Engagement Vanessa Hammler Kenon, Ed.D.; Assistant Vice President, Enterprise Service Management & Client Solutions, University Technology Solutions Ben Garcia.
HACU 38th Annual Conference
