Bill
Bill > AR85
NJ AR85
NJ AR85Encourages institutions of higher education to address lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino leadership in higher education.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 education.
AI Summary
This resolution encourages colleges and universities in New Jersey and across the United States to address the underrepresentation of Hispanic and Latino leaders, specifically presidents, by implementing strategies such as creating and improving leadership training programs, ensuring governing boards and committees that hire leaders are more diverse, and working with organizations focused on advancing Hispanic and Latino professionals in higher education. This initiative is prompted by the significant increase in Hispanic and Latino undergraduate students, who now constitute about 20% of the national student body and 25% in New Jersey, while the number of Hispanic and Latino college presidents remains disproportionately low, with only 6% nationally and just one in New Jersey. The resolution highlights that having leadership reflective of the student body is crucial for fostering an inclusive environment where students feel understood, safe, seen, and heard, especially given that some Hispanic students report experiencing disrespect, discrimination, and safety concerns on campus.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Higher Education Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/AR85 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/AR/85_I1.HTM |
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