The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) recently convened an engaging and deeply reflective virtual fireside chat featuring Ambassador Ken Salazar, focusing on his acclaimed book, Borderlands: My Fight for an Inclusive America. Held on October 15, 2026, the online event brought together educators, students, and leaders from across the higher education landscape to discuss the intersection of personal heritage, educational access, and public leadership.

The special session was led by HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores, who joined Ambassador Salazar for the discussion. Moderating the conversation was Abel A. Chávez, President of Our Lady of the Lake University, guiding a dialogue that explored the profound themes of identity, resilience, and civic responsibility outlined in Salazar’s written work. The event served as a major platform for examining how historical narratives and contemporary leadership converge to shape the future of the nation, particularly within Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).

Ambassador Salazar’s life story forms the bedrock of Borderlands. Growing up on his family’s ranch nestled in the remote San Luis Valley of Colorado, Salazar broke historical barriers as the first member of his immediate family to attend college. That foundational educational journey propelled him into a distinguished career in public service. Over the decades, Salazar has held some of the most prominent roles in state and federal governance, serving as Colorado’s attorney general, a U.S. senator, the U.S. secretary of the interior, and, most recently, as the United States ambassador to Mexico. Through Borderlands, Salazar reflects upon these extensive experiences, offering readers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of public life while passionately advocating for a stronger, more inclusive American society.

During the virtual fireside chat, the conversation expanded organically from the pages of the book into broader discussions about the vital role of family and education in shaping dedicated public servants. President Flores, President Chávez, and Ambassador Salazar examined how institutions of higher education serve as engines of social mobility and incubators for the next generation of diverse leaders. A significant portion of the dialogue focused specifically on Hispanic-Serving Institutions, highlighting the unique position these colleges and universities hold in preparing students to navigate and lead in an increasingly interconnected world.

The participants also addressed complex contemporary issues, including the ongoing challenges of bridging political and cultural divides both domestically and internationally. Given Salazar’s extensive diplomatic service in Mexico, the dialogue naturally turned toward strengthening U.S.-Mexico relations. The leaders explored practical avenues for expanding opportunities for cross-border collaboration, emphasizing that educational partnerships, joint research initiatives, and coordinated workforce development are essential for regional prosperity and mutual understanding between the neighboring nations.

In addition to exploring public policy and educational leadership, the event introduced attendees to a practical initiative designed to bring the lessons of the book directly to student populations. Ambassador Salazar shared details regarding "One Book, More Voices," a newly established effort stemming from the Borderlands New North American Alliance Fund. This program is structured to provide matching copies of the book for academic classrooms, campus libraries, and specialized student programs, enabling colleges and universities to incorporate the text into their curricula and campus discussions.

As the virtual gathering concluded, participants were left with a renewed sense of purpose regarding the mission of Hispanic-Serving Institutions and the continuous work required to build an inclusive America. The event underscored HACU’s ongoing commitment to fostering meaningful dialogues that inspire educational equity, leadership development, and stronger international ties across the higher education community.