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Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Inclusive Excellence

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Meet the HSI Director

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of our new HSI Director, a significant step forward in our commitment to serving Latine students, staff, and faculty. This role will allow us to enhance our outreach, support, and resources tailored specifically to the unique needs of the Latine community on campus. By fostering an inclusive environment and promoting cultural awareness, we can empower our Latine students to thrive academically and personally. We look forward to collaborating with our vibrant community to create meaningful programs and initiatives that celebrate our diverse backgrounds and experiences. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone at our institution.

About the HSI Director

headshot photo of Lilia, the HSI Director. She smiles and wears a flora dress.

Lilia Alejandra Contreras Ramirez is a dedicated advocate for educational equity and a passionate leader in higher education. Holding a Master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies, Lilia combines her academic background with extensive experience supporting college students from historically marginalized backgrounds.

As a DACA-mented immigrant from Mexico and the first in her family to pursue higher education, Lilia has navigated the challenges of academia as a non-traditional student. This personal journey provides her with deep insights into the obstacles faced by those lacking social advantages, fueling her commitment to fostering a sense of belonging, academic success, and personal and professional development among underserved populations. Lilia believes in the transformative power of education and is dedicated to developing and implementing policies that promote access, degree completion, and career advancement for all students.

With a strong focus on equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, Lilia works tirelessly to reshape systems that support marginalized students and foster diverse staff success. Her unique perspective and unwavering commitment to educational equity enable her to drive meaningful change and create more inclusive and just educational environments for all.