HACU kicked off its 31st Annual National Capitol Forum with Engaging Plenary Discussion

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities kicked off its 31st Annual National Capitol Forum on Higher Education on April 21, 2026, with more than 200 registered participants in attendance.

Three free pre-Forum sessions were held on the topics, "DACA and Immigration Policy: Implications for Higher Education," "Legal Landscape Update for Hispanic-Serving Institutions," and "Building Power Through Partnership."

The event officially launched with the Opening Plenary luncheon, themed "This is the Moment HSIs Lead," convened by HACU's Governing Board Chair and University of California, Merced Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz. Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington delivered keynote remarks, and HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores also addressed attendees.

The Afternoon Plenary, "No Quotas, Real Impact: Setting the Record Straight," was convened by Superintendent of San Bernardino County Schools Ted Alejandre and moderated by Daarel Burnette II, senior editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education. The session featured discussions on the legal foundation, student-centered mission, and economic impact of Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Speakers included San Diego Community College District Chancellor Gregory A. Smith, LatinoJustice President and General Counsel Lourdes M. Rosado, and Kean University President Lamont Repollet.

The day concluded with HACU's legislative agenda briefing, followed by state breakout sessions to prepare participants for their Capitol Hill meetings on April 22.

To view images from the event, click here.