The Biden Administration Recognizes 46 Higher-Education Institutions as 2023 Fulbright Leaders

Hispanic College Students at a Campus — Just as it happens in almost any aspect of life in America, Hispanics are building a major presence in higher education. For instance, a recent study by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center revealed that enrollment by Hispanics is outpacing the national average. Unsplash.com/Alexis Brown

As Hispanic enrollment in higher education is expected to exceed 4 million students by 2026, the Department of State recognized 46 Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) as Fullbright HSI Leaders, the Biden Administration said Monday.

Among these institutions, the DOS said, are 25 doctoral universities, 14 master's colleges and universities, five baccalaureate and special focus colleges, and two two-year colleges for associate degrees. Universities and colleges around the country showed a deep engagement with the academic program sponsored by the U.S. government during the 2023-2023 academic year, the DOS said.

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) annual conference in Chicago, where academic leaders gathered to promote and expand partnerships and strategic alliances for collaboration between HACU member institutions and public- and private-sector organizations.

According to HACU, members and stakeholders of the Fulbright Program work closely to promote international exchange opportunities for staff, students, and faculty at HSIs.

"Hispanic-serving institutions play a critical role in American higher education. These institutions enroll nearly two-thirds of all Hispanic and Latino undergraduates in the United States," Lee Satterfield Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, said in a message.

Just as it happens in almost any aspect of life in America, Hispanics are building a major presence in higher education. For instance, a recent study by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center revealed that enrollment by Hispanics is outpacing the national average.

General population enrollment for the fall of 2023 increased by 2.1%, but Hispanic and Latino undergraduate enrollment increased by 4.2%, doubling the national figure.

HACU leaders say Hispanic enrollment in higher education will exceed 4 million students by 2026, surpassing by over 10% other racial or ethnic groups.

And while the Hispanic and Latino population represents less than 20% in the U.S. Hispanic students earned one out of four (25.4%) associate degrees.