Learn how HSIs and emerging HSIs empower Hispanic and Latino students with targeted services and cultural programs to foster success in college and beyond.
The U.S. Department of Education defines Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) as colleges and universities that serve an undergraduate population that is at least 25% Hispanic-identifying. This designation is important as Hispanic and Latino enrollment in higher education is expected to surpass 4.3 million students by 2026, according to the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.
HSIs can actively help Hispanic students face and overcome challenges, from being the first in their families to attend college to navigating feelings of marginalization on campus. Because they offer resources and opportunities tailored to Latino students, HSIs promote educational equity and help students flourish in their academic journeys. They can also access federal funding to allow them to create additional initiatives to meet the unique needs of their student populations.
At an HSI, Hispanic and Latino students can become part of an encouraging campus that understands their unique experiences and considers their success an essential part of the school’s mission.
What Is an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution?
An emerging HSI is a nonprofit, degree-granting institution where Hispanic and Latino students make up between 15% and 24.9% of the undergraduate population. While they haven’t reached the full HSI designation, these schools actively work to meet the needs of their growing Hispanic and Latino student communities.
Emerging HSIs also implement resources and initiatives to ensure their Hispanic and Latino students feel welcomed and supported. The proactive efforts of emerging HSIs reflect their commitment to creating a nurturing environment and lay the foundation for future HSI status.
What Do HSIs and Emerging HSIs Do?
Both HSIs and emerging HSIs share a commitment to providing Hispanic and Latino students with the tools and confidence they need to succeed academically and personally. But what does that look like in practice?
Promote Academic Excellence
HSIs and emerging HSIs offer a variety of programs designed to help students excel in their coursework and build important employment skills. They include:
- One-on-one academic coaching and advising
- Bilingual tutoring services
- Study groups and peer learning communities
- Career development workshops
Celebrate Cultural Connections
These institutions also provide opportunities to connect students with their Hispanic or Latino heritage and peers through student clubs and events:
- Community service opportunities
- Heritage celebration events
- Hispanic cultural centers
- Student organizations
Accelerate Professional Growth
To help students prepare for life after graduation, HSIs and emerging HSIs create pathways to professional success through tailored initiatives:
- Industry-specific mentorship programs
- Internship partnerships with Hispanic-owned businesses
- Leadership development
- Networking events with Hispanic professionals
Why Do HSIs and Emerging HSIs Matter?
According to the Pew Research Center, about three in 10 Latinos aged 18 to 24 (32%) enrolled at least part-time in college, a lower share than among White (37%) and Asian (58%) adults of the same age. HSIs and emerging HSIs play a vital role in creating accessible educational opportunities for Hispanic and Latino students to help close the college graduation gap and ensure they have the resources they need to thrive.
Through their support of Hispanic and Latino students, HSIs and emerging HSIs have a broader impact on their communities. Their student engagement initiatives and programs help create a more diverse workforce, promote social mobility, and encourage community partnerships.
How San Juan College Supports Hispanic Students as an Emerging HSI
San Juan College (SJC) in Farmington, New Mexico, is an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution, with 21% of our student body identifying as Latino. Our community college’s commitment to Hispanic students is evident through our campus resources as we progress toward achieving full HSI status with the U.S. Department of Education.
Our Herencia Latina Center provides academic support, promotes Latino and Hispanic cultures, and fosters a warm and inclusive campus environment for all students. Services and resources include:
- Computer and software access
- Cultural events, including Hispanic Heritage Month
- Financial aid and FAFSA assistance
- Financial aid for DACA and undocumented students
- Cultural graduation celebration
- Mentorship, from stress management to career planning
- Scholarships for Latino and Hispanic students
- Service-learning opportunities
- Colores student club
View Spanish-language webpage for the Herencia Latina Center.
SJC’s ENgaging LAtino Communities for Education (ENLACE) program also offers leadership opportunities and guidance to Latino and Hispanic students and their families:
- Abriendo Puertas (Opening Doors)
- Family Center with computer access
- Parent Empowerment (Taller de Padres)
- Student Empowerment
- Student Ambassador Program
- Conversation class
Finally, the San Juan College campus also celebrates cultural events, including:
- Día de los Niños
- Día de Muertos
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Sana Sana
These offerings demonstrate SJC’s dedication to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where Hispanic and Latino students can access academic support, connect with peers, and find leadership opportunities.
Find Your Place at San Juan College
Ready to join a college dedicated to supporting Hispanic and Latino students every step of the way? San Juan College invites you to explore our programs and resources designed to help you succeed and celebrate your heritage.
