[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 127 (Wednesday, September 19, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1555]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HISPANIC SERVING INSTITUTIONS WEEK

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                          HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 19, 2012

  Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and celebrate Hispanic 
Serving Institutions (HSI) Week. As Hispanic Heritage Month began 
September 15 and runs until October 15, 2012, I would like to 
acknowledge the numerous accomplishments the Hispanic community has 
achieved and continues to contribute to our nation. This week, 
September 16 to September 22, 2012, it is important to honor Hispanic 
Serving Institutions because they play an integral part in 
strengthening the Hispanic community through fulfilling students' 
higher educational needs.
  In Orange County, California, I am proud to highlight California 
State University Fullerton (CSUF), my Alma Mater. In a county where 
33.8% identify themselves as coming from Hispanic or Latino decent, not 
only is CSUF the only Hispanic Serving Institution in Orange County, it 
is the first in California and fourth in the United States in awarding 
baccalaureate degrees to Hispanic students. Additionally, it also ranks 
19th nationally in Graduate Student enrollment. Educational 
institutions, like CSUF, embody the opportunity that translates to 
future success.
  As the Hispanic community continues to grow, HSIs shape and promote 
education by providing the necessary tools to achieve academic success 
in fields ranging from science to business. Ultimately, these 
institutions empower citizens who work to give back and improve our 
nation. Where the Hispanic community remains an influential and growing 
force, not only in California, but nationally, it is important to 
distinguish HSI's commitment to academics as vital to the United 
States' success and growth.

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