Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation…and NOVA!

Today’s topic is National Hispanic American Heritage Month.

September 15 through October 15 is National Hispanic American Heritage Month. This year’s theme is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. The theme calls on us to ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed, aligning directly with our commitment to inclusive excellence. Each campus has programming for the month, and our DEI Office has created a calendar of these events, including this Thursday’s Spotlight Event with Dr. Gina Garcia, author of Becoming Hispanic-Serving Institutions. I hope you will attend one or more of these outstanding programs.

This fall, Hispanic students comprise over 26% of NOVA’s headcount enrollment, a year-on-year increase after a decline during the pandemic. Concerns about the sudden COVID-related drop in college-going among Hispanic students was reported widely by academic researchers and traditional media outlets, alike. Given that documented downturn, our local increase is a very positive indicator. Now, our shared goal is to do all we can to ensure enrollment leads to commencement.

In May, we were able to share the good news that NOVA’s graduation demographics mapped to those of our student population, reflecting an equity in completion outcomes. It is likely that Hispanic students will make up a growing share of our overall enrollment: according to HACU, Hispanic higher education enrollment will grow by 10% over the next three years, faster than any other demographic. And, according to the most recent U.S. Census (2020), Northern Virginia’s Hispanic population increased by almost 300,000 over the decade 2010-2020—the largest growth in the region. All reasons to see National Hispanic American Heritage Month as a time to celebrate our students’ success and their cultures—while strengthening our commitment to supporting their continued achievement.

As the theme for the month captures so clearly: we are stronger when we are united and when we ensure that all are included in the promise of opportunity. Thank you for your dedication to inclusive excellence!