Hispanic-Serving Community College Presidents' Perceptions of Institutional Efforts to Improve Latino Males' Educational Experiences

• In Event: Institutional Differentiation: Leadership at Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Community Colleges

Abstract

Enrollment research studies reveal that Latino males are more likely to enroll in community colleges, yet compared to their female peers they are not earning a college degree or credential at similar rates. This qualitative study explores the narratives of three Texas HSI community college presidents’ perspectives on how their institution addresses this critical issue. We used a transformational leadership framework to better understand how these campus presidents create and shape institutional policies and programs. We found that these leaders are transforming their campus through improving institutional awareness, creating proactive policies, and supporting innovative practices to improve Latino male students’ outcomes. Finally, we provide recommendations to empower community college leaders to address this issue on their campus.

Authors

• Luis Ponjuan, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Susana H Hernandez, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Leticia Palomin, Texas A&M University - College Station