Making a Difference

New Mexico is one of the most diverse and culturally rich states in the country. Statewide, 50.1% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, according to U.S. Census data as of July 2021, meaning half of New Mexico’s population is Latino — the highest share among the states.

September 15-October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s national theme is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. The theme is meant to encourage and inspire all voices to be heard, represented, and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation.

WHAT IS A HISPANIC-SERVING INSTITUTION?

The growth of the U.S. Hispanic population has swelled in recent decades. Hispanics now make up the largest racial or ethnic minority

in the country, per U.S. Census data. With that growth has come the emergence of HispanicServing Institutions — a federal designation for colleges and universities that serve a high percent of Hispanic/Latino students.

The purpose of an HSI is to grow educational opportunities and outcomes for historically undeserved communities or populations by expanding the academic offerings, program quality, and enhancing services to support students from enrollment to graduation.

By definition, Hispanic-Serving Institutions — or HSIs — are colleges, such as UNM-Taos, or universities where Hispanic students comprise at least 25% of the full-time equivalent student body. HSIs must be designated as such by the U.S. Department of Education. Once a school is designated, it gives it eligibility to compete for grant programs set aside for HSIs.

HOW THIS MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN TAOS

UNM-Taos strives to provide and broaden access to those who have been historically undeserved, and to give them educational, career and leadership opportunities they might not otherwise get.

HSI funds enable UNM-Taos to continue to recruit local students and to support them once on campus, guiding them to graduation day and setting them up for employment or to attend a four-year university afterward.

Considering the continuing growth of the Latino population in the U.S. and the workforce, in particular, the role of an HSI is one of ever-increasing importance in the higher education landscape.