By Bea Palmer
Did you know that Latinos represent about 35% of the households in San Diego County—more than 1.14 million people? Higher education is one key path to economic mobility for our community, and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) play a critical role in this process.
HSIs are colleges and universities that meet several criteria, one being that at least 25% of undergraduate students identify as Hispanic. HSIs create critical opportunities for underserved communities but often need more federal funding to ensure equitable resources for student success.
The U.S. Department of Education allows higher education institutions to apply for federal grants to improve Hispanic students’ access, equity, and success. But being an HSI means more than just meeting enrollment targets—it’s a commitment to serving Latino students through culturally responsive support, addressing systemic barriers, and ensuring students graduate ready to achieve their goals.
Emerging HSIs, like UC San Diego (UCSD), are on the path to becoming official HSIs. This status displays the commitment to continue enrolling and supporting Latino students. But becoming an HSI isn’t just a label—it’s a promise to transform institutional culture and practices for students and their families. It’s a journey that takes intentionality and a lot of “ganas” [drive].
What Do Students Get Out of HSI Status?
For students, attending an HSI means being part of a campus that understands and addresses challenges like facing financial barriers and balancing cultural responsibilities with academic demands. Whether they are first-generation college students or come from a legacy of higher education, Latino students deserve spaces that nurture and empower them beyond their college degree.
For families grounded in Latino culture, it means being included in their students’ journey. HSIs invest in resources like bilingual support services, basic needs, culturally relevant academics and practices, and mentorship programs that validate students’ lived experiences, thereby meeting this community’s unique needs. These institutions ensure that students don’t just attend college but thrive, graduating ready to pursue careers or further their education.
A Call to Action: UCSD’s Commitment to Latino Students
Take UCSD, a university known for producing graduates who become leaders and agents of change. UCSD is an emerging HSI making great strides in its commitment to Latino students and their families.
“At UC San Diego, because of our commitment to educational access and equity, it makes me very proud that we have made great strides toward becoming a Department of Education designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI),” said UC San Diego Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla. “With more than 25% full-time Latinx enrollment this year, we are very close to becoming eligible for HSI designation. Once this happens, we will be eligible for grants to expand our ongoing investment in educational opportunities for Latinx and other students. This will enable us to enhance academic offerings and student services that increase student retention and graduation.”
As a UCSD Chancellor’s Community Advisory Board member, I’ve seen this commitment firsthand. Events like the Hispanic Heritage Scholarship and Awards Celebration showcase UCSD’s dedication to celebrating Latino students and their educators and community contributions, PUENTE, and the Raza Center, to name a few of their current programs supporting Latino students. But UCSD’s work isn’t just about celebrations—it’s about building pathways and student support services that are culturally centered and engaging students, their families, and the community to create a sense of belonging—also known as “servingness,” a concept coined by Dr. Gina Garcia.
A Seat at the Table for Latino Students and Families
To all Latino students and families wondering if you belong at UCSD—the answer is “Claro que sí!” Institutions like UCSD are actively preparing to welcome you and ensure you thrive. Whether you’re a first-generation student or continuing a family legacy, there’s a place for you here.
Spread the word: UCSD is on its way to becoming an HSI, with dedicated educators, mentors, and advocates ready to walk you toward graduation and beyond—sí se puede. Let’s claim our seat at the table—for ourselves and future generations.
