Hispanic Undergraduate Success Center Opens at JFK University

WHAT:
John F. Kennedy University will officially open their new Hispanic Undergraduate Success Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The Center is a product of a $2.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to provide additional support to its Hispanic students. Through this generous award, the University has built a dedicated center complete with tutors, academic mentors, lending library, and computer lab. The goal of the Center is to assist Hispanic students to complete their degree programs. As part of the grant, JFK University has committed $400,000 in matching endowment funds to maintain the center in the future.

The event is open to the public.

WHEN:
July 20 at 11 am

WHERE:
John F. Kennedy University
100 Ellinwood Way
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

WHY:
Recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution, the University places great importance on understanding the cultural needs of its entire student population. Currently 25% of the University’s undergraduate students are Hispanic. Dr. Judy Castro, Project Director of the Hispanic Service Institution (HSI) for JFK University states, “I believe we are at the beginning of an opportunity to reduce the educational gap, to further academic achievement and increase skills and capabilities that will have a strong impact on the economic development and competitiveness of the U.S. The level of education among the Hispanic community is not only a social issue but is also a vital economic concern.”

A Hispanic Serving Institution, or HSI, is a term used for a Federal program designed to assist colleges or universities in the United States that attempt to assist first generation, low- income Hispanic students. In addition to having at least 25% Hispanic enrollment, HSI’s must be a non-profit university, offer at least two-year academic programs that lead to a degree, be accredited, and have a high enrollment of needy students.

For more information, visit www.jfku.edu or call 800.696.5358.