Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU): Championing Hispanic Success in Higher Education

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) stands as a pivotal force in promoting Hispanic success within the realm of higher education. Established in 1986 with an initial membership of 18 institutions, HACU has grown to become the only national association representing Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). Its mission is clear: to champion Hispanic higher education success by promoting the development of member colleges and universities, improving access to and the quality of postsecondary educational opportunities for Hispanic students, and meeting the needs of business, industry, and government through the development and sharing of resources, information, and expertise.

The Role of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs)

In 1992, Congress formally recognized campuses with high Hispanic enrollment as federally designated HSIs and began targeting federal appropriations to those campuses. While HSIs represent only 17% of all higher education institutions nationwide, they are home to two-thirds of all Hispanic college students. HACU plays a crucial role in advocating for and supporting these institutions.

HACU's Multifaceted Approach to Hispanic Success

HACU’s commitment to Hispanic success in education spans from kindergarten through graduate school and into the future workforce. To that end, thousands of young Hispanics benefit from HACU’s internships, scholarships, college retention and advancement programs, pre-collegiate support, and career development opportunities and programs.

Key Program Areas

HACU’s programs focus on capacity building, research opportunities, higher education leadership training, and grant development opportunities. These initiatives are designed to strengthen HSIs and empower Hispanic students and professionals.

Signature Programs and Initiatives

La Academia de Liderazgo/ Leadership Academy: A one-year program designed to prepare the next generation of culturally diverse leaders for executive and senior-level positions at institutions of higher learning.
Annual Deans’ Forum on Hispanic Higher Education: A half-day experience for faculty and staff who are currently serving as deans or aspire to such roles.
Enlace Mid-Level Leadership Program: A six-month leadership development program for college and university professional personnel serving in mid-level positions.
Annual Women’s Leadership Symposium: A half-day event for women higher education professionals at all levels, focusing on leadership and navigating the higher education work environment.
Latino Higher Education Leadership Institute: A half-day forum focusing on strategies for advancement in higher education for faculty, staff, and administrators.

Strategic Partnerships

HACU actively forges partnerships with various organizations to expand its reach and impact.

Read also: Scholarships for Hispanic Students

Institute of International Education (IIE): HACU and IIE signed an MOU to provide a framework for cooperation between the two organizations to expand access to international education for HSIs and Hispanic identifying students.
The Center for Minority Serving Institutions (CMSI) at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Center for Black Educator Development (CBED), and Lindy Family Fund and Wells Fargo (LFW): The Center and COE will enhance and support existing and new programming and activities, including the Center’s American Passport Project and COE’s study abroad programming and TRIO network. Federal TRIO Programs help students overcome economic, social, academic, and cultural barriers to higher education. The Center and LFW will enhance and support existing and new programming and activities aimed at increasing study abroad participation among Black men in college or university. The organizations will convene subject matter experts with the students through talks, small networking receptions, and educational webinars, as well as explore research collaborations.
Dickinson College: Our partnership with Dickinson College started with a virtual workshop series that combined the strengths of both institutions. This collaboration leverages shared expertise and global networks to develop new frameworks for international education that emphasize cross-cultural understanding and fairness. We hosted workshops exploring the connections between intercultural learning and global education while addressing practical strategies for professionals to implement changes on their campuses and within their organizations.

Expanding Access to International Education

It has long been part of IIE’s mission to create connections and increase participation among all students in study abroad. For students of limited means, studying abroad can require long-term planning and involve financial hurdles, like the cost of a passport, which could bar them from moving forward.

Resources and Information

HACU provides a wealth of resources and information through its website, including:

Membership portal
Research tool with helpful links
Community Resource Center (CRC) for DACA/DREAMers and HSIs
News updates, e-newsletter, and member advisories
The Voice of Hispanic Higher Education magazine
Information about HACU’s events and conferences
Comprehensive job board
HACU’s Hall of Champions

Conferences and Events

HACU’s conferences and special events each year provide a vital platform for advocacy, information, collaboration, and recognition. These events include the National Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education each spring in Washington, D.C., and HACU’s Annual Conference. Student participation has been an important new dimension in recent years.

HACU's Impact and Reach

As of 2023, HACU represents close to 500 academic institutions in the United States, Puerto Rico, and abroad. Its member institutions include both public and private universities, community colleges, and emerging HSIs.

Funding and Support

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is supported by individuals, foundations, government grants, program services, and investment income.

Read also: Learn about the HSF

Current Initiatives and Calls to Action

HACU actively encourages participation and engagement through various initiatives:

Share your HSI story: Students, alumni, faculty, and community partners are encouraged to share how HSIs have made a difference in their lives.

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