Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives

California State University, Long Beach received its Hispanic Serving Designation Fall of 2025.

HSI Definition: 

According to the US Department of Education, a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) is a federal designation that acknowledges colleges and universities with at least 25 percent undergraduate Hispanic full-time enrollment and demonstrate a high concentration of student who are Pell Eligible. Eligibility must be met annually. 

Purpose: 

CSULB recognizes that higher education systems have historically excluded and underserved  marginalized communities even when they make up most of the student population. The HSI designation means that CSULB centers efforts on intentionally serving and providing educational opportunities for, and improve the attainment of Latine/x students. Currently, Latine/x students account for 50% of the student population on campus and more than 45% in the Long Beach community. The university's mission recognizes that the surrounding and on campus diversity brings intellectual and cultural richness, creating an opportunity to educate students to reflect the diversity of the community. 

Articles & Resources: 

  1. HSI Books: Dr. Gina Ann Garcia | HSI scholar-activist, author, and speaker
  2. El Concilio for Latinx Success at The Beach
     

Recognition:

  1. In 2023, California State University, Long Beach was among 30 colleges and universities to earn the Seal of Excelencia for its commitment to Latine/x students. 
  2. CSULB ranked among top universities for Hispanics, recognized as HSI leader
  3. CSULB named 2021 Hispanic-Serving Institution Leader by Fulbright Program 
  4. CSULB ranked among top volunteer-producing Hispanic-Serving Institutions in the nation