In October 2024, the University of California, Davis announced that it is now eligible to be one of the nation’s few research-intensive universities designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, or HSI, after fall enrollment numbers crossed the threshold for HSI status for the first time time.
Latino enrollment at UC Davis reached a new peak of about 8,100 students or 25.1% of undergraduate full-time-equivalent students, which surpasses the U.S. Department of Education’s criteria of at least 25% for HSIs. This fall’s 25.1% was up from 24.6% last year.
It’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week, and supporters of colleges and universities where over 25% of students are Latino have been sharing their achievements on social media.
Hispanic Outlook congratulated all 615 Hispanic-Serving institutions that are part of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. They also sent well wishes to those who are striving to become part of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).
According to Excelencia, Hispanic-Serving Institutions enroll 30% of all undergraduates in the U.S. Excelencia’s analysis highlights the vital role they play in improving access to quality education for all students. Resources for Hispanic-Serving Institutions support the development of new labs, equipment, and services that assist students from every background to succeed.
Regarding research on the progress of initiatives aimed at improving achievement for all students over the past four decades, Kirk Whisler noted that the 651 Hispanic-Serving Institutions received a total of $350 million in federal grants last year.
A Hispanic marketing newsletter also noted that there are 3.4 million undergraduate Latino students in the United States. Based on this statistic, approximately $103 was allocated for each Latino undergraduate student.
Whisler emphasized that at a time when Latinos represent the fastest-growing demographic in higher education, funding has been invaluable. He also mentioned that the allocation of HSI funds ultimately benefits all students on campus, whether directly or indirectly.
Whisler’s organization plans to release data through a series of informative webinars based on an extensive study of 15.4 million Latino readers across the United States.
This audience is represented by the National Association of Hispanic Publications, which comprises over 770 Latino newspapers, magazines, podcasts, websites, and e-newsletters, collectively reaching a weekly audience of 15.4 million people.
On September 11, 2025, the webinars will focus on retail and food shopping, as well as Latino reader influencers. Questions to be addressed include how Latino readers are expected to spend $125 billion on food this year and the seven ways they are influencing key purchasing decisions.
Other upcoming webinars will cover topics such as automobiles, financial trends and investments, health, and business ownership.
Moreover, several noteworthy events are on the horizon, including the Sacramento Latino Book & Family Festival, scheduled for September 13.
Keynote speakers will include Dolores Huerta, Captain Mama, and David Aguilar, with numerous activities available in the Authors, Community, Children’s, Education, and Health Villages.
The 2025 San Bernardino Multicultural Book & Family Festival, hosted by California State University, San Bernardino, will take place on October 4, featuring the talented artist Ignacio Gomez as a keynote speaker.
The 2025 International Latino Book Awards Ceremony is set for October 25. This event has become one of the most prestigious book awards in the USA, with 222 judges evaluating the entries. More importantly, the awards raise the visibility of books by and about Latinos.
The National Association of Hispanic Publications will hold its 2025 Convention at the University of San Diego from November 12 to 14, providing numerous opportunities for valuable connections and resources regarding the significant influence of Latino readers.
Over the years, Whisler has served on the boards of several key organizations, including the National Association of Hispanic Publications, the National Association of Latino Independent Producers, the Los Angeles International Latino Film Festival, and the National Latino Media Council. He is also involved with the Latino Book & Family Festivals, the International Latino Book Awards, the International Society of Latino Authors, and the Latino Books into Movies Awards.
UC Davis is now eligible to be one of the nation’s few research-intensive universities designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, or HSI, after fall enrollment numbers crossed the threshold for HSI status for the first time. Read more: https://t.co/Wiyz5np9Yd #OurUCDavis #HSI pic.twitter.com/wtsVjl2BGe
— UC Davis (@ucdavis) October 28, 2024
We are proud to be a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), committed to expanding access to higher education and providing resources to help all students succeed. Join us in celebrating #HSIsWeek #FresnoState @HACUNews pic.twitter.com/GCLjrdEFBY
— Fresno State RSP (@fresnostateRSP) September 8, 2025
Hispanic-Serving Institutions enroll 30% of all undergrads in the U.S. Excelencia's analysis makes clear the vital role #HSIs play in enhancing access to quality education for all students. Learn more in @mattdembicki's article for @Comm_College CCDaily→ https://t.co/zLIkFEYvaw
— EdExcelencia.org (@EdExcelencia) September 8, 2025
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