Rutgers University–Newark’s Honors Living-Learning Community (HLLC) has been named as a national model for its innovative approach and success in fostering access to excellence for Latino students and others.
The HLLC is one of 11 programs nationwide recognized by Excelencia in Education as an Example of Excelencia. It is the only national effort honoring programs with a track record of helping Latino students, among others, excel.
“Excelencia identifies and promotes programs at the forefront of improving higher educational achievement to grow what works for Latino, and all, students,” said Adriana Rodriguez, Excelencia in Education Chief Operating Officer and Vice President for Institutional Programs.
Excelencia in Education leads a national network of educators and policymakers working to tap the talents of the Latino community and address the U.S. economy’s needs for a highly educated workforce and engaged civic leaders.
“The 2026 finalists demonstrate how intentional, asset-based practices strengthen institutions and produce positive results for students, families, and communities. We celebrate their impact and invite others to learn from and apply these proven approaches.’’ said Rodriguez.
The HLLC was recognized in the Student Support category.
Since it was established in 2016, the Honors Living-Learning Community (HLLC), has been lauded for redefining inclusivity in honors. Its mission is to cultivate the talent and ambitions of local students, in addition to those from all over the U.S. and the world.
To be admitted, students must have a track record of academic excellence, community involvement, and a commitment to creating a more just and equitable society.
The HLLC has served more than 750 students, including 280 Latino students. More than 71 percent of HLLC students are first-generation and more than 70 percent are Pell-eligible. Retention rates for Latinos and others are between 94 and 100 percent. More than half of all HLLC students have graduated with honors
“This recognition is especially meaningful because it highlights the success of our students and validates a model that was intentionally designed to ensure that Latino students—and all students—have the opportunity to thrive,’’ said Jason Cortés, Dean of the Honors Living-Learning Community.
“This honors not only the remarkable outcomes our students have achieved, but also Rutgers–Newark’s commitment to creating an educational environment where talent is cultivated, opportunity is expanded, and every student is empowered to lead and make a meaningful difference,’’ he said.
Rutgers-Newark is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, where more than 34 percent of undergraduates identify as Latino. Last year, it was awarded the Seal of Excelencia, becoming the only college or university in New Jersey to earn the designation.
The seal recognizes institutions that go beyond enrollment to intentionally serve Latino students and all students by creating environments where they feel a sense of belonging—and where belonging drives academic and economic success.
Latinos are representative of the post-traditional student majority in college today. They are more likely to be low-income, first-generation college-goers, work while enrolled, and navigate affordability challenges, according to Excelencia in Education.
The Excelencia finalists were chosen because they demonstrate what’s possible when institutions and community-based organizations intentionally invest in evidenced-based practices that address changing student needs and workforce demands, stated Excelencia.
They selected institutions that expand opportunity, promote persistence and completion, and create pathways to economic mobility through student-centered, culturally responsive approaches that include experiential learning, mentorship, alumni engagement, holistic services, and connecting students to meaningful career opportunities, according to Excelencia.
“Having the Honors Living-Learning Community receive this recognition is a source of tremendous pride. The HLLC reflects our deep commitment to ensuring that Hispanic students, and all of our students, have the support, opportunities, and sense of belonging they need to thrive,’’ said Rutgers-Newark Chancellor Tonya Smith-Jackson. “Its success is a testament to our values as an institution and to the power of creating a community where excellence and inclusion go hand in hand.”
The HLLC and other finalists join Excelencia’s Community of Practice for What Works, a national cadre of leaders from over 120 programs previously recognized through Examples. Programs in this community are committed to sharing best practices, learning from one another, and scaling what works for Latino, and all, students across higher education.
On October 26, Excelencia will announce the 2026 Examples of Excelencia, bringing national attention to three of the 11 finalists. Programs will be recognized at Celebración de Excelencia, part of Excelencia’s invitational Fall Convening in Washington, D.C. The event brings together leaders in higher education, business, philanthropy, and government.
