California HSI State Designation Legislation
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Advancing California’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions
HACU has worked with higher education leaders and advocates since its founding in 1986, to advance policies supporting the nation’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and the students they serve.
SB 1255 is a California HSI designation recognizing institutions effectively serving Latino students. SB 1255 has passed the California Legislature and has been sent to the Governor for consideration.
HACU leadership collaborated with California higher education institutions, systems, policymakers, and advocates shaping the legislative framework and building statewide support for the designation.
What SB 1255 Establishes
Implementation of these provisions are operational after legislative appropriation.
- A California HSI designation recognizing institutions that effectively serve Latino students.
- A statewide governing board approving institutions for an initial five-year designation.
- The CSU Office of the Chancellor as the managing entity responsible for administering applications and supporting the designation process.
Building the California HSI Framework
The effort for a state level HSI designation began after California’s Black-Serving Institutions legislation provided a model for HACU and its partners in how it could be structured.
HACU began developing a California HSI designation proposal in 2024. Through consultation and coalition building, the Association worked with California’s higher education systems, HSIs, policy leaders, and advocacy partners to refine the proposal into a framework responsive to California’s legal and policy environment. This included considerations related to Proposition 209.
From Legislation to Implementation
The next phase of SB 1255 focuses on:
Governance
Advocate for meaningful HSI expertise and HACU representation.
Implementation
Partner with California State University, University of California Office of the President, California Community Colleges, and state HSIs to apply the new designation and build institutional capacity.
Servingness
Advance the conversation beyond enrolling Latino students and effectively serving them by supporting completion, economic mobility, and workforce impact.
Advancing a Lasting Framework for California HSIs
SB 1255 is an important opportunity to establish a state framework recognizing institutions for effectively serving Latino students. HACU will continue working with higher education leaders and partners as the legislation moves to the Governor.
Get in Touch
Contact Information
Please feel free to contact us or fill out the form.
For questions, contact:
WESTERN REGIONAL OFFICE
- 916-442-0392
- wro@hacu.net
