SAN ANTONIO - The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has announced that David A. Ortiz, Ph.D., has been appointed interim president and CEO, effective November 4, 2026. Ortiz will lead the Association during the search to appoint HACU's next president and CEO, following the retirement of Antonio R. Flores, Ph.D., effective November 3, 2026.

Ortiz brings extensive executive leadership experience and a distinguished record of service to HACU. Most recently serving as executive vice president for programs and operations. Ortiz previously held several key leadership positions at HACU, including chief operating officer, senior vice president, and executive director for policy analysis and information. He has also served in executive leadership roles at Texas Lutheran University and Southwestern University.

"The Governing Board is confident that the experience and commitment of Dr. Ortiz to the Association's mission will ensure the continuity of its work in advocacy and student success at our member institutions and a smooth transition once the search for HACU's next president and CEO is concluded," said Juan Sánchez Muñoz, Ph.D., chair of HACU's Governing Board and chancellor of University of California, Merced.

As HACU's interim president and CEO, Ortiz will oversee the Association's operations, programs, advocacy, and strategic initiatives outlined in the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan. He will work closely with HACU's leadership team, member institutions, and partners to continue the expansion of opportunities for all Hispanic-Serving Institutions, their students and communities.

"I am honored to have been appointed as HACU's interim president and CEO," said Ortiz. "My experience with the Association provides a strong foundation to sustain our momentum and build upon our accomplishments. I look forward to working with all HACU stakeholders to expand access to quality education and opportunities that uplift our students, communities, and nation."

Ortiz brings 32 years of experience in higher education to the Association, serving as a faculty member and senior administrative leader, and has contributed to more than 100 publications, national presentations, and invited keynote addresses. His research, scholarship, and contributions to higher education have earned recognition by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, Association for the Study of Higher Education, National College Learning Center Association, and other prominent organizations in which he has held membership and various leadership roles. He was honored with the 2023 Outstanding Alumni Award from Texas A&M University's College of Education in recognition of contributions and impactful work in higher education.

Ortiz earned a bachelor's and master's degree from Texas A&M University, College Station, and a doctorate from Indiana University Bloomington.