The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) was established in 1986 with a founding membership of eighteen institutions. Because of HACU’s exemplary leadership on behalf of the nation’s youngest and fastest-growing population, the Association rapidly grew in numbers and national impact.

Today, HACU represents more than 500 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Latin America, Spain and U.S. school districts. Although our member institutions in the U.S. represent only 17% of all higher education institutions nationwide, together they are home to two-thirds of all Hispanic college students. HACU is the only national educational association that represents Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).

HACU remains true to its roots and its mission. It is still first and foremost a membership organization governed by a Board primarily composed of leaders of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). It speaks as the pre-eminent voice for Hispanic higher education in the United States. It continues its programmatic efforts to address the pipeline issues critical to Hispanic students, and engages government and corporate partners in its mission.