The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities held the International Plenary, “Higher Education as a Catalyst for Leadership, Innovation, and Economic Prosperity,” on Nov. 3, 2025.
The plenary’s panel discussion was moderated by Emma Grace Hernández Flores, Ph.D., president of Universidad de Iberoamérica. The International Plenary featured the following speakers: José Fierro, Ph.D., president/superintendent, Cerritos Community College District; Justin Schwartz, Ph.D., chancellor, University of Colorado, Boulder; and Fernando León García, Ph.D., president, CETYS University.
Discussions focused on how academic institutions can act as incubators for democratic values and economic development. Also highlighted were initiatives that encourage research, collaboration, and innovation within universities, fostering partnerships that advance public policy, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development in both national and international contexts.
The Exemplary International HACU-Educational Affiliate Member was presented to GlobalEdu Consortium during the plenary, which recognizes a member that has excelled in supporting HACU’s international work. Elizabeth Rodriguez, president of GlobalEdu, accepted the award on the organization’s behalf.
Recognized for their support as Executive Leadership Seminar host partners were: Marco Urbina, CEO, Universidad Hispanoamericana; Krissia Leiva Calderón, executive director, Universidad de Iberoameríca; and Rocio Valverde Gallegos, Ph.D., president, Universidad Santa Paula.
The HACU International Plenary was part of HACU’s 39th Annual Conference, “Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Forging Transformational Leaders to Uplift Democracy and Prosperity,” held Nov. 1-3, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado.
Additional photos from the event can be viewed here.
