At the Latina Leadership Podcast, we’re all about amplifying voices and creating pathways for the next generation. As we gear up for our Latinas in Education event on April 24th, we’re taking a moment to shine a spotlight on the role Latinas are playing–and need to play–in shaping the future of education and leadership in our communities.

 

The Reality

 

Despite Latinas being one of the fastest-growing student populations in higher ed, they remain underrepresented in education professions. As of 2021, only 11% of those employed in education occupations identified as Latino–and far fewer were women.

 

It’s not because we lack talent or ambition. It’s because of systemic barriers–like financial need, low institutional support, and family responsibilities– too often get in the way.

 

Latinas are more likely to:

• Be first-generation college students
• Work 30+ hours a week while attending school
• Raise children while pursuing degrees (over 56% of Latina undergrads have dependent children)
• Attend community college or public 2-year institutions where Pell Grant access is more limited

 

And yet, despite all this, Latinas are showing up and showing out.

 

From 2015 to 2020, degree attainment among Latinas increased by 52%–with more than 300,000 degrees earned in 2020 alone. That’s compared to 188,000 earned by Latino males during the same period. Latinas now make up two-thirds of all Latino students at Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and the majority are attending public colleges and universities.

Why Representation Matters

 

Representation isn’t just a buzzword–it’s a lifeline. When Latina students see educators, counselors, and administrators who look like them, speak their language, and understand their culture, it changes everything. It boosts confidence. It raises expectations. It opens doors.

 

At Seal-certified institutions, where Latino faculty representation is three times higher than the national average, Latino students graduate at higher rates (52%) than Latinos nationally (44%). That’s the power of cultural connection and institutional investment.

The Bridge

 

Through our Puente Program, we have worked directly with high school students, right where they are. We brought mentorship, financial literacy, wellness workshops, and monthly touchpoints to give students the tools they need to better prepare for their futures – whatever path they choose. The program also connects them with real-world leaders who share similar lived experiences, helping them see themselves in careers and colleges they may have never considered.

 

And through our Dream Weavers initiative, we have gone a bit further. We created a safe space for young Latina girls to explore their identities, ask tough questions, and develop crucial life skills–from personal branding to financial education. With the ideas of both programs, we are evolving to keep targeting youth to help them create a better future.

 

These programs aren’t just about career prep. They’re about building roots–deep, cultural, and lasting connections that affirm our young leaders’ sense of self while setting them up for success.

What’s Next?

 

So what’s next? We can’t talk about advancing education without investing in Latinas as leaders in education. This April 24th, join us as we bring together educators, advocates, and community leaders to uplift the stories of Latinas shaping education at every level.

 

Let’s make space, amplify voices, and nurture roots that will carry generations forward.