Molloy University has been officially named a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) according to the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).
Hispanic-Serving Institutions are defined by the Department of Education as not-for-profit institutions of higher learning with a full-time equivalent of undergraduate student enrollment that is at least 25 percent Hispanic. They are recognized as an elite group of colleges and universities that enroll two-thirds of all Hispanic undergraduates in the United States, driving the growth of Hispanics in the workforce who are projected to account for 78% of new workers between 2020 and 2030.
“For Molloy University to be named a Hispanic-Serving Institution and recognized among this exclusive group of institutions of higher learning is truly an honor,” said James P. Lentini, President of Molloy University. “This designation not only acknowledges our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment but also reinforces our dedication to serving the diverse needs of our student body. At Molloy, we believe in the transformative power of education, and this recognition fuels our resolve to continue empowering all students to reach their full potential.”
As the Hispanic student population continues to increase, Molloy University offers scholarship opportunities and on-campus programs that are created specifically for the Hispanic community.
In March 2023, Molloy University partnered with Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union (Ocean Financial) and 100 Hispanic Women announced The 100 Hispanic Women LI Scholarship program to young Hispanic women across Long Island that are attending or will attend Molloy University in the coming academic year. The initial $5,000 funding will be divided into three scholarships: two $1,250 undergraduate scholarships and one $2,500 graduate scholarship. The recipients will be chosen by 100 Hispanic Women.
In addition, Molloy offers its Mentoring Latinas Program specifically designed for Latina students at participating high schools to expose them to university life and engage them in relevant activities, including visits to academic departments, financial workshops, and athletic and cultural events. For the academic year, Molloy Latina undergraduate students serve as mentors to Uniondale and Roosevelt high school students as they provide support, friendship and encouragement to go on to pursue a college degree.
“The Mentoring Latinas Program holds a special place in my heart because I feel that I have found a place where I am represented,” said Wendy Espinosa. “The mentors and mentees look like me, speak the same language and have similar cultural backgrounds.”
