What Others Say

"Data show that Latino workers will soon comprise 20 percent of the nation’s workforce but only 2 percent of managers. We need to bolster Latino student success in postsecondary education to further expand the nation’s talent pool and ensure that our growing Latino population can share in the American dream. How well we address their needs will determine the quality of our workforce, the nation’s economic growth, and our ability to close equity gaps. In just a short time, Excelencia has played a vital role in higher education policy by focusing policymakers and higher education leaders on the needs of Latino students, and supporting states and institutions whenever and wherever they are needed."

—The Honorable Richard W. Riley, Former U.S. Secretary of Education Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP

"Sarita Brown has always been focused on what works for students and promoting model programs that improve Latino higher educational success. Excelencia in Education has taken this practice to a new level, by systematically identifying programs that positively impact Latino college enrollment and graduation and analyzing how to replicate the strategies and results.  Excelencia’s knowledge and singular ability work with colleges, universities and higher education decision makers provides a vital resource at a critical time in America."

—The Honorable Henry Cisneros, Chairman of CityView

"Since its inception, Excelencia has acknowledged the crucial role of Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) and has challenged them to double our efforts to get better results. By providing HSIs with knowledge and research on enrollment and attainment rates, Excelencia has helped focus institutions on the important aspects of their mission, including attracting and graduating Latino students and better serving the community. We particularly appreciate Excelencia’s recognition and inclusion of higher education institutions in Puerto Rico and for following up on students who migrate to the mainland."

—Jose Jaime Rivera, President, Sacred Heart University, Puerto Rico, Former Chair of the Board, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)

"Hispanic-Serving Institutions are on the crest of a demographic wave in this nation. They are our laboratories for fostering Hispanic student success, and other colleges and universities will look to them for guidance and leadership."

—Rep. Ruben Hinojosa, U.S. House of Representative (D-TX)

"Latino student success should be a critical part of every institutional measure of success, and Excelencia is helping lead the way."

—Ricardo Fernandez, President, City University of New York, Lehman College and board chair 2007-08, American Council on Education and ¡Excelencia! Honorary Board Member

"It has become evident that regardless of what institutions have been doing, Latino students are the ones responsible for creating Hispanic-Serving Institutions. By basing enrollment decisions on costs and location, Latino students are sending a clear message on what they value in a college. As the population continues to grow, it would be wise for higher education institutions to take note."

—Sarita Brown, President, ¡Excelencia in Education!