Excelencia in Education

**What is Examples of Excelencia?**

Examples of Excelencia is the only national data-driven effort that recognizes programs at the associate, baccalaureate, graduate, and community-based organization levels with evidence of effectiveness in increasing Latino student success in higher education. Annually, Excelencia seeks out programs for Examples of Excelencia through a rigorous review of profile submissions that look at intentionality and evidence of effectiveness in serving Latino students. The process launches with a national call for nominations and culminates in a public celebration of featured programs at Celebración de Excelencia.

Explore the 'About Examples' section to learn about participating in this effort.

Why should program leaders participate in Examples?

Participating in Examples of Excelencia allows practitioners to inventory how they measure and share the impact of their program on Latino participants. Excelencia events related to evidence-based practices working for Latino students gives leaders the opportunity to share and learn from others doing similar work. This online portal shares information on how leaders can engage in the process and the benefits of being in community with those who share the common cause of accelerating Latino student success.

"As I reflect on my personal journey as a former program participant of Esperanza, and now overseeing our Post-Secondary Programs, I feel beyond inspired by this recognition. This distinction is a catalyst for our programs and organization. We feel seen, validated, praised, recognized and honored for the work we do to elevate our community. ¡Muchas gracias por todo!" Germaine Peña, Manager of Post-Secondary Initiatives at Esperanza, Inc.

We have 20 years of experience promoting what works for Latino students.

Since its inception, more than 2,000 program profiles have been submitted for consideration and over 400 programs have been highlighted by Excelencia in Education. The large number of nominations and evidence-based practices show that there is a significant body of existing practices increasing Latino student success across the country. Examples of Excelencia is a compilation of these evidence-based practices and serves as a resource for other institutions and community-based organizations considering efforts to improve their services to Latino students.

In 2024, Examples of Excelencia received 103 program submissions representing 20 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Of these 103 programs, eighteen programs were recognized as 2024 Examples of Excelencia Finalists. On September 30th, four programs were further recognized as the 2024 Examples of Excelencia for their respective levels. We invite you to view their entries in our Growing What Works Database, the only national, online searchable database that serves to promote effective institutional practices for Latino students.