Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives (HSII)

Empowering Our Latine Community

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) was first designated a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) in 2005. Institutions of Higher Education who have an enrollment of Hispanic undergraduate full-time equivalent students that is at least 25 percent receive this designation. In fall 2024, CSULB reported 50.1% of undergraduate students are Hispanic (CSULB IR&A).

Three Latine staff members smiling together.

In the fall of 2024, the Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives (HSII) at CSULB was established. HSII focuses on intentionally creating meaningful opportunities for all participating students, staff, and faculty to thrive. Our work is guided by our partnership with Excelencia in Education and the Seal of Excelencia framework, which helps to ensure institutional accountability to serve our community with respect for all identities and lived experiences. Additionally, in support of the work and collaborative efforts of CSULB’s El Concilio for Latine Success, and in compliance with Prop 209, HSII will increase the capacity of the institution to intentionally serve all students and to engage with external organizations and agencies to bring resources to the CSULB community. 

All students, staff, and faculty, regardless of sex, race, color, national origin, and/or any other protected identity, who are interested in the program's mission and focus are welcome and eligible to participate.

The purpose of HSII is to expand CSULB’s awareness and capacity to serve students with intentionality and help create an environment where students, faculty, and staff can thrive.

  • Advocacy and Policy Change: Ensure institutional policies reflect the unique strengths, needs, and experiences of students.
  • Cultural Engagement: Elevate culture through programming and initiatives that celebrate identity and heritage.
  • Data-Driven Support: Use quantitative and qualitative data and community input to continuously assess and improve the effectiveness of campus initiatives.
  • Collaboration and Community Building: Work with faculty, staff, and community partners to engage Servingness and enhance resources and opportunities.

 

  • Faculty and Staff Development: Partner with the Latinx Student Resource Center and other campus colleagues to provide workshops and programs that equip faculty and staff to better support students in culturally conscious and meaningful ways.
  • Community and Foundation Partnerships: Build relationships with local organizations and foundations to create opportunities for students and secure resources.
  • Visibility and Cultural Representation: Coordinate campus-wide efforts to highlight Latine heritage and culture through events, programs, and visual representation, fostering a sense of belonging.
  • Grant Development and Management: Collaborate with stakeholders to identify funding opportunities and write grant proposals.
  • Assessment and Accountability: Lead the development of tools and processes to evaluate programs focused on student success, ensuring the tools are effective, data-driven, and continuously improving.
  • Advocacy and Policy Change: Represent students, staff, and faculty in policy discussions and initiatives to influence institutional change.

  • Improved Student Success: Higher retention and graduation rates for students.
  • Increased Representation: Create a campus environment that serves the student population.
  • Enhanced Cultural Visibility: Actively celebrate students' heritage and identity through visible representation, programming, and storytelling.
  • Stronger Community Connections: Expanded partnerships with local organizations to provide students with internships, mentorship, and other real-world opportunities.
  • Data-Informed Growth: The development and use of assessment tools to ensure programs are effective and meet the strengths and needs of the community.
  • Policy and Institutional Change: Advocacy efforts that result in policies and practices that address systemic barriers and create equitable opportunities for ALL students, faculty, and staff.