The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) brought its national advocacy and engagement efforts to Southern California, visiting Los Angeles, California, on September 15, 2026, to host the latest installment of its signature series, “HACU on the Road: Destination Higher Education Success.” The high-profile gathering convened higher education leaders, chancellors, presidents, and policymakers from across the state to foster dialogue, deepen partnerships, and address the evolving landscape of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).
The event, hosted by the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) at East Los Angeles College, served as a crucial forum for institutional leaders to examine collaborative strategies aimed at advancing educational equity and student success. The day’s proceedings commenced with formal welcome remarks delivered by LACCD Chancellor Alberto J. Román, Ph.D., who emphasized the critical role that community colleges and regional universities play in uplifting diverse student populations throughout California.
Strengthening Advocacy and Building a Unified Agenda for California’s HSIs
A central highlight of the day’s agenda took place during the luncheon, where a high-level fireside chat brought together prominent figures from HACU and LACCD. The discussion centered on strengthening robust support systems and amplifying legislative advocacy for California’s network of Hispanic-Serving Institutions.
Participants engaged in a comprehensive dialogue exploring how academic institutions, multi-campus systems, and educational networks can successfully build a unified legislative agenda. The conversation emphasized the vital necessity of strengthening advocacy efforts at both the state and federal levels. Leaders underscored that a coordinated approach is essential to ensuring that the unique needs of HSIs, alongside the millions of students they serve, are effectively communicated to and prioritized by lawmakers and policymakers.
The engaging fireside chat featured a distinguished panel of education leaders, including LACCD Chancellor Alberto J. Román; East Los Angeles College President Monte E. Perez, Ph.D.; San Bernardino Community College District Associate Vice Chancellor of Government Relations, Strategic Communications, and Grants Angel Rodriguez; and HACU Executive Vice President for Programs and Operations David Ortiz, Ph.D. The insightful discussion was expertly moderated by Loyola Marymount University professor Fernando J. Guerra, Ph.D., who also facilitated a dynamic and interactive question-and-answer session with the audience of educators, administrators, and stakeholders.
Spotlight on HACU Initiatives, Legislative Advocacy, and Institutional Resources
Following the fireside chat, a comprehensive presentation delivered by HACU representatives shed light on the Association’s extensive ongoing efforts at the state and federal levels. The briefing detailed HACU’s active legislative advocacy campaigns, diverse programs and professional services, student-focused initiatives, and a wide array of institutional resources designed to empower member campuses.
Furthermore, the presentation explored tangible opportunities for deepening collaboration among California colleges and universities, encouraging institutions to share best practices and leverage collective resources. A key component of this session was the formal recognition of key legislative champions who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing educational equity in the state.
During a special awards presentation, honors were bestowed upon state Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes and Assemblymember Mike Fong. The awards recognized their steadfast partnership and instrumental leadership in advancing landmark legislation, specifically Senate Bill 1255 (SB 1255), which establishes a formal state-level Hispanic-Serving Institution designation. This legislative milestone represents a significant step forward in recognizing and supporting the specific contributions and funding requirements of campuses serving high concentrations of Hispanic students.
Promoting National Dialogue on Hispanic Higher Education
The “HACU on the Road” initiative is thoughtfully designed to serve as a catalyst for critical national and international dialogue regarding the current state, challenges, and future trajectory of Hispanic higher education. By bringing together a diverse cross-section of educational leadership—including chancellors and presidents of colleges and universities, superintendents of Hispanic-Serving School Districts, corporate partners, and dedicated supporters of Hispanic higher education—the series creates vital spaces for strategic planning and alliance-building.
Events like the Los Angeles gathering reinforce HACU’s ongoing mission to champion opportunities for Hispanic success in higher education, ensuring that institutional leaders are equipped with the insights, partnerships, and legislative backing required to navigate an increasingly complex educational environment.
Additional photographs capturing key moments, speakers, and attendees from the “HACU on the Road” event in Los Angeles are available for viewing on the official HACU Flickr album.
