Journal of Hispanic Higher Education current issue

College Student Civic Development and Engagement at a Hispanic Serving Institution

Geertz Gonzalez, R. — 2008-09-22

This study compares the civic development and engagement of Cuban American and non-Hispanic White college students at a large, urban Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). The findings indicate that both ethnic groups civically develop and engage in similar ways at Hispanic Serving Institution. However, when it comes to political discussions, there are minor differences between both ethnic groups.

Sentido de Pertenencia: A Hierarchical Analysis Predicting Sense of Belonging Among Latino College Students

Lamont Strayhorn, T. — 2008-09-22

The present study estimated the influence of academic and social collegiate experiences on Latino students' sense of belonging, controlling for background differences, using hierarchical analysis techniques with a nested design. In addition, results were compared between Latino students and their White counterparts. Findings reveal that grades, time spent studying, and interactions with diverse peers affect sense of belonging, accounting for approximately 11% of Latino students' belonging. Differences were found between Latino and White students. Important implications are discussed.

New Voices in the Struggle/ Nuevas Voces en la Lucha: Toward Increasing Latina/o Faculty in Theological Education

Sotello Viernes Turner, C., Hernandez, E. I., Pena, M., Gonzalez, J. C. — 2008-09-22

Little progress has been made to increase Latina/o faculty representation in theological education. In this study, 33 interviews with Latina/o theological faculty identify supports and challenges to their scholarly development. Latino critical theory guides the analysis. Narratives reveal faculty experiences with oppression, challenging dominant ideology, commitment to social justice, and the use of their experiential knowledge in academe. A discussion of the findings and the impact of the Latina/o presence in theological education conclude the article.

Bridging the Communication Gap Between Afro-Latino and African American Individuals: An Interdisciplinary Curriculum Initiative

Vargas, M. P., Kuhl, P. E. — 2008-09-22

This article describes a curriculum initiative intended to lay the foundational knowledge for a dialogue between Afro-Latinos and African Americans living in the United States. Afro-Latinos trace their roots to Africa and Latin America; although their physical characteristics are similar to those of African descent, their ethnic backgrounds differ. This initiative targets the preservice teacher who represents the best hope to start such dialogue. Furthermore, the article recommends appropriate instructional materials.

Texas Community Colleges and Characteristics of a Growing Undocumented Student Population

Jauregui, J. A., Slate, J. R., Stallone Brown, M. — 2008-09-22

In this study, the researchers examine the undocumented student population in Texas community colleges. The data indicate steady yearly increases in the number of undocumented students and in their percentage of the total student enrollment. The relationships between undocumented student enrollment, college size, and overall Hispanic student enrollment also are studied, and the implications of these findings are discussed.

Language and Opportunity in the "Land of Opportunity": Latina Immigrants' Reflections on Language Learning and Professional Mobility

Thorstensson Davila, L. — 2008-09-22

This study analyzes the goals and realities of four educated, working, adult Latina, English as a Second language (ESL) students living in North Carolina, a region seeing particularly intense migration of Latino immigrants. The study conceptually frames adjustment issues confronted by these Latina immigrants in terms of gender, language, geography, their educational and professional backgrounds, and current experiences and expectations. It concludes by offering social justice—oriented approaches to teaching English to Latina adults.