New Jersey Assembly Bill AR146

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/28/24
• Refer: 6/28/24

Caption

Encourages institutions of higher education to address lack of representation of Hispanic and Latino leadership in higher education.

Impact

The resolution encourages proactive measures to ensure that higher education institutions actively engage in practices that promote diversity in leadership. It highlights the establishment of leadership development programs, the diversification of governing boards and search committees, and collaboration with organizations committed to advancing Hispanic and Latino leaders. By improving representation in leadership, the resolution aims to enhance student experiences and prevent feelings of disrespect, discrimination, and alienation among Hispanic and Latino students, as noted in the 2024 State of Higher Education report.

Summary

Assembly Resolution AR146 urges institutions of higher education in New Jersey and across the United States to address the significant underrepresentation of Hispanic and Latino individuals in leadership roles within academic institutions. Despite substantial growth in Hispanic and Latino student enrollment—reaching nearly 3.8 million across America in 2022—they are still inadequately represented in leadership positions, with only six percent of college presidents identifying as Hispanic or Latino in 2023. The resolution underscores the necessity for university leadership teams to reflect the diverse student demographics to foster an environment of inclusivity and cultural competency.

Contention

Notably, the resolution touches upon existing barriers in recruitment and hiring practices that often discourage the promotion of diverse candidates within educational leadership roles. Simplistic and outdated methods of selection can perpetuate the lack of representation in these crucial positions. As the state witnesses a demographic shift in its student population, the call for change in leadership practices is critical in evolving to meet the needs of a diverse educational community, addressing systemic inequalities that have persisted for too long.