The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has selected 26 fellows for the seventh cohort of its Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderazgo, continuing its mission to develop future leaders in higher education with particular focus on Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Emerging HSIs. This announcement represents a significant step toward addressing leadership diversity gaps in higher education administration, particularly within institutions serving Hispanic student populations.
The year-long fellowship program provides comprehensive professional development through webinars and three seminars, beginning in November 2025 at HACU's 39th Annual Conference in Aurora, Colorado. Subsequent seminars will occur in Washington, D.C., during HACU's National Capitol Forum in April 2026, and at an international location to be determined. The program's faculty comprises current and former presidents, chancellors, and senior administrators with over 100 years of combined experience across various higher education sectors.
A critical component of the program includes mentorship from university presidents or senior-level administrators and the development of special projects designed to create impact at each fellow's home institution. The program's effectiveness is demonstrated by its alumni success, with nine previous fellows having attained presidential positions at institutions including California State University, Fresno; Macalester College; New Jersey City University; and several community colleges across the nation.
The 2025-26 fellows represent diverse institutions nationwide, including Jonathan Alcántar from University of Northern Colorado, Wendy Arzate from Malcolm X College, María V. Boccalandro from Dallas College, and numerous others from community colleges and universities across the country. The program receives support from Capital One and Mellon Foundation, which provide fellowships to selected recipients.
This leadership development initiative addresses the critical need for diverse representation in higher education administration, particularly as Hispanic student enrollment continues to grow nationally. By preparing leaders specifically for Hispanic-Serving Institutions, the program ensures that these institutions can better serve their student populations and address unique challenges facing Hispanic students in higher education. The program's track record of producing college presidents demonstrates its significant impact on shaping the future leadership landscape of American higher education.
