Region III the Power of Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs): Strategies for Enhancing University Success
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As Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) continue to grow in number across the United States, their impact on higher education is becoming increasingly significant. HSIs play a critical role in providing equitable access to higher education for Hispanic and Latinx students, promoting diversity, and driving institutional innovation. This presentation explores the unique opportunities HSIs offer to enhance university success, focusing on strategies to improve academic achievement, student support services, and community engagement.
Key areas of discussion will include data-driven initiatives for improving retention and graduation rates among Hispanic students, fostering a campus culture that embraces multiculturalism, and building partnerships with local communities. We will also examine how universities can secure funding and resources available to HSIs to strengthen institutional infrastructure, enhance faculty development, and promote research initiatives that serve the needs of diverse student populations.
By leveraging the unique strengths of HSIs, universities can not only meet the needs of Hispanic students but also foster an environment of inclusion and excellence that benefits the entire campus community. This presentation will provide actionable insights for university leaders, administrators, and educators seeking to enhance their institutions through the values and opportunities offered by HSI designation.
Dr. Robert Anthony Valdez
Director for Conferences, Catering and Event Services
The University of Texas at Austin
Dr. Robert Anthony Valdez serves as the Director for Conference and Event Services and Interim Director for Catering for University Housing and Dining here at The University of Texas at Austin. He oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of a wide range of events, from events and large-scale university functions to intimate gatherings and high-profile catering services.
With over 19 years of experience in higher education and hospitality, Dr. Valdez brings a wealth of expertise to their role. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail, strategic thinking, and ability to manage complex logistics with ease. Under his leadership, the Conferences, Events and Catering team has consistently delivered outstanding experiences that meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring every event is executed flawlessly. Dr. Valdez has unique experience in his roles at UT Austin that has equipped him with a deep understanding of the industry, as well as a strong network of vendors and partners that he can leverage to deliver exceptional service.
Dr. Valdez is passionate about creating memorable experiences and takes pride in his ability to bring students’ and University visions to life. Whether it’s a small or large event or an intimate catered affair, Dr. Valdez approaches each project with the same level of dedication and enthusiasm. He truly believes in UT Austin’s motto What Starts Here Changes the World. Dr. Valdez wanted to change the world and has by sitting on the Presidential HIS Steering Committee for The University of Texas at Austin. He brought to life an annual traditional event called Longhorn Fiesta and has thousands in attendance each year.
In addition to his professional achievements, he received his bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Austin, a Master of Business Administration with a focus on accounting and finance from Our Lady of the Lake University and a doctorate in higher education leadership and administration from Colorado State University. Dr. Valdez also sits on numerous boards for higher education associations across the United States. This allows him to know and understand trends within higher education.
When not planning the next big event, Dr. Valdez enjoys spending time with his family, which are here today in this crowd. He loves going for walks with his 15-year-old Pomeranian named Ozzy, and really loves to relax by any body of water. This helps him stay creative and inspired in his work. When does he sleep… it’s the mystery we will never know