Encourages institutions of higher education to address lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino leadership in higher education.
Impact
If adopted, SR21 aims to significantly alter the landscape of leadership in higher education by mandating institutions to establish and expand leadership development programs, diversify governing boards, and engage with organizations that promote Hispanic and Latino leadership. These initiatives are designed to not only improve representation but also to foster a more inclusive atmosphere that reflects the diverse student population. The resolution underscores that an inclusive leadership team is vital for understanding and responding to the needs of a diverse student body, ensuring that all students feel safe, seen, and heard.
Summary
Senate Resolution 21 (SR21) encourages institutions of higher education across New Jersey and the United States to address the significant lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino leadership in these institutions. This resolution highlights the increasing enrollment of Hispanic and Latino students in higher education, which reached nearly 3.8 million in 2022. Despite this growth, the resolution points out that as of 2023, only six percent of college and university presidents in the United States identified as Hispanic or Latino, with only one Latino president in New Jersey's higher education institutions, prompting concerns about inclusivity and proper representation.
Contention
There are underlying tensions that may arise from the execution of SR21, particularly concerning hiring practices and institutional policies. Critics might argue that while the intention of promoting inclusivity is commendable, the methods required to achieve this could face resistance from established governance systems that have historically lacked diversity. Additionally, the resolution's success will depend on whether institutions effectively overcome barriers such as outdated hiring practices which have previously hindered the advancement of Hispanic and Latino candidates to leadership positions.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.