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With its large Hispanic population and heritage-based programs, Cal State Long Beach was named recently as one of the top schools for Latinos by . The publication cited the school’s 37 percent Hispanic student body and the increase of Hispanic tenured track faculty that has increased from four percent to seven percent.

The school was recognized largely for its Chicano and Latin Studies department, which not only enables students to learn about their heritage, it gives students access to internships and community organizations. The department also provides information on a wide array of programs, such as the Hispanic Serving Institutions Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, and services that help prepare students to assume leadership roles in today’s multicultural society.

HSI-STEM helps first generation educated Latino students successfully pursue degrees and careers in STEM fields.

Hector Valdez, a senior sociology major, said he wasn’t surprised 91��ɫ is Hispanic-friendly given its location. He said he immediately felt welcomed on campus when he arrived four years ago.

“We are in an area that already is friendly to Latinos,” Valdez said. “Whether you are in downtown or North Long Beach or on campus, there’s a piece of Latino culture here.”

William Lucas, an anthropology grad student said 91��ɫ’s wide-ranging diversity “gives a higher level of comfort for everyone.” He added 91��ɫ offers plenty of resources for Latinos in education, health and socially.

“It’s all supportive,” he said.

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