Excelencia in Education Co-Founder Delivers The National Hispanic University's Commencement Address

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- The National Hispanic University held its 27th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 19, at the San Jose campus and celebrated the accomplishments of 96 students who earned their bachelor's degrees, teacher education credentials and certificates. Deborah A. Santiago, co-founder and vice president for policy and research at Excelencia in Education, a nonprofit organization advocating for Latino success in higher education, delivered the keynote address and reminded graduates that they are now part of an exclusive group in society.

"Today, only about 30% of adults in the U.S. have earned a bachelor's degree or more, and less than 15% of Latino adults have earned a bachelor's degree or more," said Ms. Santiago. "You are a person of privilege because you have a college education, and with this privilege comes responsibility-responsibility to yourself, your family, your university, your community and your world."

Ms. Santiago also praised The National Hispanic University's vision that every student at the institution will graduate. "That's a powerful vision to fulfill, and you here today are part of that vision," she said. "This spirit of invention, of becoming entrepreneurs to make sure we meet the needs we see around us, lives in all of you. You have found a way and prepared yourself for a robust but unknown future. You have the tools, training and education you need to succeed and be the entrepreneurs of tomorrow-be the change you want to see."