Presidential Hispanic Serving Institution Steering Committee

Charge

The Presidential Hispanic Serving Institution Steering Committee will work with the campus to implement recommendations and strategies outlined by the Transition Committee. Committee members will also work with campus leadership to advise and recommend ways the university can continue to strengthen these efforts.

Background

As the flagship public research university of Texas, UT Austin has a unique and critical obligation to serve and prepare the next generation of leaders. Texas is one of the most vibrant and diverse states in the country, and our Hispanic community is a very important part of our culture, history and future.

In 2020, UT Austin proudly earned the Hispanic Serving Institution designation, and was also awarded the prestigious Seal of Excelencia. These recognitions represent a broad effort by the campus and UT community and help demonstrate the university is committed to providing high-quality education that values the Hispanic experience along with other student experiences.

During this critical period, the Hispanic Serving Institution Transition Committee led a rigorous effort to research and understand areas and opportunities to continue making progress.

Steering Committee

Richard Flores

Richard Flores (Chair)
Deputy to the President for Academic Priorities
Office of the President

Deborah Parra-Medina

Deborah Parra-Medina
Professor and Director, Latino Research Institute
Department of Mexican American and Latino/a Studies

Leticia Acosta

Leticia Acosta
Director, BBA Outreach & Scholarships
Director, Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders

Victor Saenz

Victor Saenz
Professor and Department Chair
Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

Lydia Contreras

Lydia Contreras
Vice Provost for Faculty Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity
Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost

Miguel Wasielewski

Miguel Wasielewski
Assistant Vice Provost and Director of Admissions
Office of Admissions

Marvin Hackert

Marvin Hackert
Professor and Associate Dean
Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies

Charles Martinez, Jr.

Charles Martinez, Jr.
Professor and Dean
College of Education

Dean Ramon Rivera-Servera

Ramon Rivera-Servera
Professor and Dean, College of Fine Arts

Robert Valdez

Robert Valdez
Associate Director
University Housing and Dining

Melissa Chavez

Melissa Chavez
Associate Vice President and Executive Director of the UT Charter School System