HSU Designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution

Hardin-Simmons University is proud to announce it has been designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). The HSI designation is granted to universities by the U.S. Department of Education and requires a minimum of 25% of an institution’s full-time undergraduate students identify as Hispanic. Currently, approximately 26% of HSU’s undergraduates identify as Hispanic.

Reaching HSI status has been a goal for the university since 2021 when it was recorded in the school’s strategic plan, but efforts have been in place since before then.

Dr. Vicki House, Vice President for Engagement and Advancement, shared,

This designation unlocks additional federal funding opportunities that can be passed along to all students, shaping everyone’s educational experience. Achieving HSI status has been a strategic goal for several years. I am proud to be part of the HSU community and for our designation.

Achieving federal recognition as an HSI will make HSU eligible to apply for a range of federal grants, strengthen institutional programs, facilities, and services, and expand educational opportunities for Hispanic Americans and other underrepresented populations.

Moving forward, HSU’s goal is to maintain HSI status, including directing efforts and resources toward improving admission, yield, and retention rates for Hispanic students and continuing to make HSU an affordable option for all students.