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NJ SR106
NJ SR106Encourages institutions of higher education to address lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino leadership in higher education.
summary
Introduced
06/28/2024
06/28/2024
In Committee
06/28/2024
06/28/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This resolution encourages institutions of higher education in New Jersey and across the United States to address the lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino presidents of institutions of higher education. Colleges and universities in New Jersey and across the country have seen significant increases in enrollment of Hispanic and Latino undergraduate students in recent decades. Currently, approximately 20 percent of undergraduate students in the United States and approximately 25 percent of undergraduate students in New Jersey identify as Hispanic or Latino. However, while college enrollments increasingly reflect the rich diversity of this State and nation as a whole, the leadership in institutions of higher education does not. In 2023, only six percent of presidents of institutions of higher education in the United States identified as Hispanic or Latino and there is currently only one Latino president leading an institution of higher education in New Jersey. The lack of diverse leadership among institutions of higher education is of great concern as creating a leadership team that is reflective of the student body is critical to promoting inclusivity and belongingness among students, understanding students' diverse needs and interests, and ensuring students feel safe, seen, and heard. Thus, this resolution encourages institutions of higher education in New Jersey and across the United States to address the lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino leadership in higher education by establishing and expanding leadership development programs, enhancing the diversity of governing boards and search committees, and actively engaging with organizations dedicated to the advancement of Hispanic and Latino leaders in higher education0 .
AI Summary
This resolution encourages higher education institutions in New Jersey and across the United States to address the significant underrepresentation of Hispanic and Latino leaders in college and university presidencies. Despite Hispanic and Latino students comprising approximately 20% of undergraduate populations nationally and 25% in New Jersey, only 6% of college presidents in 2023 identified as Hispanic or Latino, with just one Latino president in New Jersey's higher education institutions. The resolution highlights the critical importance of diverse leadership that reflects student demographics, noting that representation is crucial for fostering inclusivity, understanding students' needs, and creating welcoming learning environments. Specifically, the resolution calls on institutions to take concrete steps such as establishing leadership development programs for Hispanic and Latino professionals, diversifying governing boards and search committees, and collaborating with organizations that support Latino leadership in higher education. The resolution is motivated by data showing that many Hispanic students experience feelings of disrespect, discrimination, and psychological unsafety, suggesting that increased representation could help address these challenges and create more supportive academic environments that benefit students, institutions, and society.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Higher Education Committee (on 06/28/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SR106 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/SR/106_I1.HTM |
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