SANTA FE — The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities announced on November 3 that New Mexico’s Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez received its Outstanding Public Sector Partner Award.
The award recognizes Rodriguez’s leadership and commitment to advancing educational opportunities for underserved populations across New Mexico. It is a national recognition of public sector leaders who demonstrate extraordinary support for the association’s mission of championing Hispanic higher education success.
Under Secretary Rodriguez’s leadership, the agency has strengthened partnerships with Hispanic-Serving Institutions, expanded access to college affordability with initiatives like the Opportunity Scholarship and supported programs that uplift students from diverse and historically underrepresented communities in New Mexico.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, an organization that has been instrumental in empowering Hispanic-Serving Institutions and transforming higher education for students like it did for me,” said Rodriguez. “This award reflects the dedication of our department and state leaders, like Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who believe that every New Mexican deserves equitable access to higher education and opportunity.”
Secretary Rodriguez will also take part in the 39th Annual Conference Town Hall, with the theme of “Heart of Change: Elevating HSIs through Advocacy, Justice and Courageous Leadership,” where higher education leaders from across the nation will discuss strategies to advance Hispanic-Serving Institutions and expand student success across the nation.
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is the leading national voice for Hispanic-Serving Institutions. It has been pivotal in securing support from federal, corporate and higher education sectors to strengthen opportunities for Hispanic and minority students.
For more information about New Mexico Higher Education Department, visit hed.nm.gov.