REPUBLISHED FROM MCCCD (https://www.maricopa.edu/news/2025/national-hsi-week-underscores-marico…)
As National Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) Week begins on Monday, September 8, the observance highlights ongoing work to expand access to affordable, high-quality education. With nine of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges currently designated as HSIs, the system remains committed to expanding accessible pathways to college and preparing students for high-opportunity professions throughout Arizona.
"Access to affordable, high-quality education changes lives," said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor. "Our colleges leverage every resource to broaden academic pathways, deepen student support, and prepare learners of every background for good-paying jobs that power Arizona's economy."
Arizona's Leader in Accessible Education
Maricopa Community Colleges accounted for nearly half of Arizona's HSIs, with nine of the system's 10 colleges holding the HSI designation. Each year, grants received through the HSI designation bring critical investments to the colleges, helping tens of thousands of students thrive, strengthening Arizona's workforce, and ensuring the success of future generations. While specific funding is awarded through the HSI designation, the programs and services it supports benefit all student populations. Targeted funding is often used to enhance undergraduate, graduate, and STEM programming, helping students navigate college and secure sought-after jobs in rapidly expanding fields.
By the Numbers: Expanding Access & Student Success
- Maricopa Community Colleges serve more Arizona residents than any other college or university in the state.
- Nearly 50% of Maricopa students are the first in their families to attend college.
- More than 45,000 Maricopa students receive Pell Grants each year.
- Nationwide, HSIs enroll 37% of all Pell recipients, reflecting HSIs' role in advancing affordability and mobility.
- Federal appropriations for HSIs have grown from $42.2 million (2000) to over $350 million (2024), strengthening capacity for student success initiatives across the country.
- In 2024-25, grants at six colleges funded services benefiting all students, including career services, embedded tutoring, dual enrollment, and classroom and equipment upgrades.
Why It Matters
Access to education matters at every stage of a learner's journey, from recent high school graduates and first-generation college students to re-careering adults returning to college. Higher education leads to better jobs, supports a thriving, competitive economy, and elevates Arizona's workforce. For over a century, Maricopa Community Colleges have delivered the most accessible, affordable pathway to higher education, leading to high-wage careers that strengthen Arizona's communities, workforce, and economy.
Learn more at maricopa.edu.