Nevada State College has completed the first step toward being designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution now that its Latino student population has reached 25 percent of total enrollment. The college will be able to apply for federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution in fall 2016 based upon fall 2014 enrollment.
Colleges designated as Hispanic-Serving Institutions by the U.S. Department of Education are eligible for grants intended to expand educational opportunities and the overall academic success of Latino students and low-income students, Nevada State College President Bart Patterson said.
“We have always worked to serve a diverse student population that is reflective of our community. It is important for the economic development of our region for the growing Latino population to be successful in higher education. Working toward this designation is a huge step in advancing this mission to benefit our students and the community at large,” he added.
To celebrate this milestone, Nevada State College hosted a luncheon for the Latin Chamber of Commerce from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, April 15, at its newly expanded campus at 1021 E. Paradise Hills Drive in Henderson. Featured speakers include Patterson, Latin Chamber of Commerce President, Peter Guzman, and Glenn Christenson, former Chief Financial Officer of Station Casinos and past Chair of the Nevada State College Foundation.
Hispanic-Serving Institutions are eligible for federal grants in educational and research equipment, curriculum development, enhancement of community outreach, faculty development, renovation and campus facilities, student support services, and student scholarships and grants. In order to apply for this official designation with the U.S. Department of Education, the college must maintain at least a 25 percent Hispanic enrollment for two years.