June 20, 2024
HACU recognized by California Legislature
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities’ President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and HACU’s Western Regional Office 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.
Currently, there are 172 HSIs and 45 emerging HSIs. HSIs represent 54% of California’s nonprofit institutions of higher education and enroll 91% of all Hispanic students. In 2023, five of the top 10 economic mobility colleges were HSIs in the state. Over half (87) of the HSIs in California are in the top 5 counties with the largest percentage of Latinos: Los Angeles County (41), San Diego County (14), Orange County (13), San Bernardino County (10), and Riverside County (9).
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 (AD-42), 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.
Additional photos from the event can be viewed here.
