UConn Hartford: Hispanic-Serving Institution, No Funding

0:00Yukon Hartford just hit Hispanic-serving institution status, with at least a quarter of its undergrads identifying as Latino. That milestone means they qualify under federal rules from the Higher Education Act. But here's the twist, no access to key minority-serving institution grant money. In September 2025, the U.S. Department of Education cut off discretionary funding for these programs. Officials called it a move to end discrimination tied to racial or ethnic quotas, following a Department of Justice opinion that the 25. Percent threshold violates the Constitution. Dean Mark Overmire Velasquez says it's a big step back for first-generation students of color who rely on that sustainable support to thrive. These funds help recruit from communities, guide success in college, and boost post-grad jobs and giving back. This hits other spots too, like Yukon Waterbury, Yukon Stanford, CT State Community College, Southern Connecticut State, Western Connecticut State, and Alberta's Magnus College, all lost out on the cash despite meeting the mark.

1:05Still, Yukon Hartford's pushing forward, celebrating their Hispanic Huskies with a Somos Huskies event tomorrow from 12 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. They're committed to Latino-focused courses, staff support, and student groups ready for whatever funding comes next. That wraps Hartford News Today, brought to you with AI. I'm Cory with The Story.