Passaic Today

Montclair State University enrolls more Hispanic undergraduates than any other higher education institution in New Jersey, with 45% of this year’s freshman class identifying as Hispanic. Nationally recognized as a leader in social mobility and committed to public service, Montclair ranks among the top institutions addressing the evolving needs of today’s diverse student population.

The U.S. Department of Education designates Montclair as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), reflecting the University’s dedication to providing underserved populations with affordable higher education access.

“Our Carnegie R2 status as a comprehensive public research university, combined with our HSI designation, national ranking in social mobility and focus on public service, positions Montclair to play a critical role both regionally and nationally,” says Katia Paz Goldfarb, Associate Provost for Hispanic Initiatives and International Programs.

Montclair, along with Bloomfield College of Montclair State University (also an HSI with 31% of students identifying as Hispanic), has consistently earned top honors for advancing the social mobility of its diverse student body. The shared experiences of these students in overcoming barriers to higher education and accessing a support network are a testament to the University’s commitment.

“While we’ve made significant strides in improving access to higher education, it’s equally important that educational outcomes and graduation rates reflect success,” says Jane Sanchez Swain, Director of Degree Completion Programs.

Montclair is ranked first in New Jersey and among the top 10 schools nationally for social mobility, according to U.S. News & World Report. This ranking highlights the University’s success in enrolling and graduating low-income students. Montclair also ranks No. 11 nationally for graduation rate performance, reflecting how well its students exceed the expected graduation rate compared to those at similar institutions.

“There is still much work to be done,” adds Sanchez Swain. “We need to listen, gather data on effective practices, identify gaps and continue advocating for the success of Latine students.”

What Students Are Saying

“One of the pillars of Hispanic culture is family … I can confidently say that the Office of Hispanic Initiatives along with the student-run organizations on campus (Dominican Student Organization, Latin American Student Organization, Mexican American Student Association and Puerto Rican Student Organization) have provided a home away from home,” says Darielly Suriel-Genao, a senior History major and Dominican Student Organization president.

“To attend an HSI school is to feel comfortable with my parents’ background, the language I grew up with and the culture I was raised in,” adds Jennifer Sanchez, a senior whose family is from Guayaquil, Ecuador. “Having a club on campus where you can share that bond with other students who speak Spanish and come from different cultures is invaluable.”

Sanchez shared her experiences at a recent Latin American Student Association event as a Journalism and Digital Media major who interviewed aid workers and asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona last spring. Her reporting was featured on NBCU Academy’s national platform and the Montclair News Lab.

Commitment to Serving Hispanic and Latine Students

Hispanic-Serving Institution is a federal designation identifying nearly 600 colleges and universities where at least 25% of the undergraduate population is Hispanic. Since receiving this designation eight years ago, Montclair has seen its Latino student numbers grow significantly; it is now one of the largest HSIs east of Chicago and north of Florida.

In line with Montclair’s commitment:

Hispanic Student College Institute: A summer program providing high school students with a head start on college preparation.

Pilot program with Excelencia in Education: To apply for and earn recognition through Seal of Excelencia.

First-Gen Initiatives: National designation by First Scholars Network advancing first-generation student success.

Fulbright Hispanic-Serving Institution Leader: Recognized by U.S. Department of State for creating life-changing educational opportunities.

Hispanic Heritage Month 2024

“We recognize the full strength of our students and their heritage diversity as an asset,” President Jonathan Koppell said during an opening event for Hispanic Heritage Month. “Montclair's initiatives leverage our bilingual bicultural student body across various fields.”

National Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15 marking Latin American countries' independence days. Special events hosted by Montclair's Office include:

September 17 – Artist Reception: Na’Ye Perez explores community themes.

September 28 – Homecoming BBQ hosted by Alumni Network.

October 12 – Disney's Encanto Sing-Along event.

October 16 – Block Party celebration.

October 17 – LUPE Fund Conference focusing on Latina empowerment.