FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 30, 2025

HACU Issues call to action to protect higher education funding

SAN ANTONIO – The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) has issued an urgent Call to Action to protect federal funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).

The Trump Administration has taken direct actions threatening student success and the long-term sustainability of the 600 HSIs across the country and the 5.3 million students they serve.

While the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rescinded its order to pause all federal funding, the White House has since released contradictory information stating that this is not a full reversal of the funding freeze. Agencies continue to review federal programs and assess whether they align with the Administration’s priorities, meaning HSI programs remain vulnerable to funding cuts, delays, and administrative restrictions.

Many HSI students are first-generation college students and higher education remains their pathway to the American Dream. Since 1995, HACU has worked with Congress and previous administrations to secure investments in HSIs, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have equal opportunities to succeed through their hard work and merit.

HACU calls on Congress to protect key HSI federal programs. HSIs fuel the U.S. workforce and economy, ensuring that America remains a global leader in innovation and technology. Federal investments in HSIs allow institutions to provide:

  • Student tutoring and support services
  • Research and internship opportunities
  • Faculty and staff development
  • Institutional aid and capacity-building programs
  • Community outreach and workforce training

The Trump Administration has declared that the U.S. is entering a new “Golden Age in America.” However, to fully realize this vision, Congress must protect investments in HSIs to make progress in high-demand fields, including:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and microprocessors
  • Biotechnologies and healthcare
  • Aerospace and advanced manufacturing
  • Food production and agricultural sciences

HACU has issued a Call to Action to its members and supporters to contact Members of Congress urging them to protect funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Click here to send a letter to your Member of Congress. 

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The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain, and school districts throughout the U.S. HACU programs and services are available to all students, faculty, and staff at HACU-member institutions. The Association’s headquarters are in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C., Sacramento, California and Chicago, Illinois.

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