Standing in the halls of Congress, two Criswell College students experienced firsthand how public policy, education, and civic leadership intersect. Their visit to Washington, D.C., provided more than a tour of the nation’s capital—it gave them the opportunity to advocate for the future of Hispanic higher education and engage directly with leaders shaping national policy. Through their participation in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities National Capitol Forum, an annual event hosted by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) that brings together students, university leaders, and policymakers, they discussed issues impacting Hispanic higher education and ways to advocate for policies that support Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).
The visit was led by Luis Juárez, Vice President of Student Affairs and Communication, at Criswell College and an alumnus of the HACU Leadership Academy/Academia de Liderazgo, accompanied by Cesia Juárez who serves as the Career Services coordinator for the College. Representing Criswell College at the forum were Lucy Castañeda, a psychology major, and Jenavi Gonzalez, a PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics) major. During their visit to Capitol Hill, the students met with members of the Texas congressional delegation, including Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D–TX) and staff members from the office of Senator John Cornyn (R–TX).
Through this experience, students were given the opportunity not only to observe the policymaking process but also to engage directly with congressional leaders on issues affecting students at Hispanic-Serving Institutions. In these meetings, the students advocated for stronger federal support for HSIs and shared the importance of HSI programs that expand educational opportunities for Latino students across the country. For the students, the experience was both educational and transformative.
“Opportunities like this allow our students to see how faith, leadership, and public policy intersect,” said Juárez. “It is important that our students understand how their voices can contribute to conversations that shape access to higher education for future generations.”
While the visit highlighted the growing influence of HSIs, it also underscored the ongoing challenges they face in securing equitable federal funding. Although HSIs enroll a significant and rapidly growing percentage of Hispanic college students in the United States, many institutions continue to receive disproportionately lower levels of federal support compared to other federally designated minority-serving institutions. This funding gap can limit the ability of HSIs to expand academic programs, strengthen student support services, and invest in long-term institutional development.
Advocacy efforts such as the HACU National Capitol Forum seek to address this imbalance by bringing the voices of students and institutional leaders directly to policymakers. By sharing their experiences and perspectives, students help illustrate the real-world impact of federal policies on campuses and communities across the nation.
During their time in Washington, D.C., the Criswell delegation participated in a sponsored dinner hosted by the Center for Public Justice, where students were introduced to the organization’s work in the area of faith and public policy. The evening was led by Dr. Girien Salazar, Director of Faith-Based Policy and Research, who shared insights on the role of faith-based organizations in shaping public policy and engaging constructively in civic life. The discussion provided students with an opportunity to explore how Christian convictions can inform thoughtful engagement in the public square.
In addition, for the second consecutive year, students toured the Cato Institute, where Criswell alumnus Edward Meshell ’24 serves in Donor Relations. Meshell hosted the students at the Institute and later led them on a memorable night tour of Washington, D.C.’s historic monuments, offering insights into the history and significance of the nation’s capital. The experience provided students with a deeper appreciation for the institutions and historical moments that have shaped American public life.
For the students, the experience strengthened both their civic awareness and their commitment to serving Hispanic communities through education and leadership.
“The HACU Capitol Conference was so encouraging because it showed me that there are so many people who are actively advocating for the inclusivity and equity of Hispanics in America. It has inspired me to be more active in the areas where I can help in advocating for the same things.”
— Jenavi Gonzalez
“HACU has been a life changing experience that I will always carry with me. The forum has encouraged me to educate and inform other students about the importance of HSIs. I am also grateful for the opportunity to advocate for Hispanic Serving Institutions at Capitol Hill and look forward to continuing to serve HSIs.”
— Lucy Castañeda
Through experiences like the HACU National Capitol Forum, Criswell College continues to encourage students to engage thoughtfully with the broader social and political issues affecting higher education while preparing them to lead with conviction, integrity, and a commitment to serving their communities.
