President Joe Biden recently hosted a formal ceremony to commemorate his executive order establishing an initiative aimed at increasing funding for Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs) and creating a board of advisors for HSIs. These institutions, which enroll at least a quarter Hispanic undergraduate students, play a crucial role in promoting equality in educational and economic opportunities, as highlighted by the White House.
With Hispanic individuals accounting for a significant portion of the nation's population growth, higher education leaders are urging the president to raise awareness about this new initiative, emphasizing its potential to help Hispanic students bridge the gap with their peers from other backgrounds.
Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized the importance of inclusive spaces in supporting all students, stating that HSIs are instrumental in turning dreams into reality for students nationwide.
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) advocated for a public event to promote the HSI initiative, expressing optimism about the federal efforts to support hundreds of local colleges and universities.
HACU CEO Antonio R. Flores thanked President Biden for taking action to advance the success of HSIs, noting that the executive order signifies a federal recognition of the critical role these institutions play in shaping the nation's future.
The executive order is expected to enhance HSIs' infrastructure and resources, catering to the diverse needs of their student population, which includes a significant number of low-income and Pell grant-eligible students.
There are over 500 HSIs in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, collectively serving more than 4.7 million students annually. Unlike historically Black or Native American tribal colleges and universities, any college can receive the HSI designation based on its Latino enrollment reaching at least 25%.
Biden's order aims to bolster HSIs' capacity to provide quality education, leverage federal programs, and enhance students' educational and economic mobility, ultimately facilitating access to the middle class for Latino individuals.
White House domestic policy advisor Neera Tanden highlighted the critical role of HSIs in ensuring economic mobility for Latinos and emphasized that the executive order will strengthen these institutions to support all students in achieving their aspirations.
Overall, the initiative underscores the administration's commitment to promoting educational equity and economic empowerment for Hispanic students through targeted support for HSIs.
