Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities are Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America
October 14, 2022
Campus educators and students, corporate leaders, and elected officials met in San Diego this past weekend for the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities’ (HACU) first in-person national conference since the pandemic disrupted higher education and all of our major civic institutions.
The conference’s theme was “Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America”. As Hispanic Heritage Month closes, one theme permeated the robust exhibit hall, many diverse presentations, and dynamic keynotes – that of looking, moving and leading forward. Alongside a deep expressed appreciate for the opportunities available in the U.S., the invitation was clear – let us work together to make it easier for more of the Latino/a/x community to experience belonging, thrive on campus and in the workplace, and continue to contribute to the American project.
The final presentation of the conference saw Irma Becerra-Fernandez, President of Marymount University, moderating a discussion with executives from three energy companies discussing the immense job opportunities presented by the current transformation in the energy sector to clean energy. Hispanic and Latino/a/x communities, as imperfect as that category may be, are among the fastest growing and youngest populations in the United States. The panel’s speakers expressed their needs to: 1) fill the growing number of positions now and in the near future and cultivate a talent pipeline, and 2) represent and reflect the growing ethnic and racial diversity of the communities they serve. At the end of the session the president of HACU, Dr. Antonio Flores, and Jose L. Perez, the president of Hispanics in Energy, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cement a partnership between the two bodies.
HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores and Jose Perez, President and CEO of Hispanics in Energy sign memo in partnership. (HACU via Twitter)
Marla Franco presenting to a full room. (Photo credit: Becca Hartman-Pickerill)
