Miami Dade College is one of the largest institutions of higher learning serving Hispanic students in the US and is one of the 17 colleges and universities to earn the Seal of Excelencia in 2024.
This marks the 20th year of Excelencia, an organization aimed at encouraging the success of Latino students in higher education. Miami Dade College first received the certification in 2021, just three years after Excelencia introduced the seal.
Before MDC earned the Seal the first time, President Madeline Pumariega had joined Excelencia’s national network of Presidents for Latino Student Success (P4LSS). The network includes over 200 higher education leaders who have pledged to make their institutions environments where all students, but especially those of Latino descent, can succeed.
“It is an honor to be recognized once again as a top institution for advancing student success and completion and expanding career pathways, especially among Hispanics, our largest student population,” said MDC President Pumariega. “We are proud to be part of the Excelencia community and join other distinguished colleges and universities leading the way to expand opportunities for Hispanic students.”
To receive the Seal of Excelencia, the organization assesses factors like retention, financial support, and degree completion for Latino students at their respective institutions. For the organization, strengthening the Latino student body elevates the status of the institution at large, as they make up such large portions of the demographic.
“The colleges and universities that earn the Seal of Excelencia lead the charge in meeting our nation’s degree attainment goals,” said Deborah Santiago, co-founder and CEO of Excelencia of Education. “They demonstrate commitment to Latino student success through impact and ongoing self-assessment.”
This year’s awarded institutions have become part of the 46 colleges and universities total that have earned the Seal. They represent less than 1% of all institutions combined, but enroll 17% and graduate 19% of all Latino students nationwide.
“Students and families as well as leaders in philanthropy, business, and government look to colleges and universities that earned the Seal of Excelencia when making their institutional choices,” said Sarita Brown, co-founder and president of Excelencia in Education. “Excelencia is proud to partner with institutions ensuring America’s bright future by advancing the talents of the Latino community.”
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