HSI Initiatives and Research, Innovation and Impact (RII) are excited to announce the recipients of the Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Faculty Seed Grant Program.
Ten proposals were awarded funding for AY 2024-2025. Congratulations to the award recipients!
Applicant
Genesis Arizmendi, Assistant Professor of Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences
Abstract
This initiative focuses on dismantling systemic barriers that impede the enrollment and participation of underrepresented students in the Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) professions. Arizmendi emphasizes PUENTE's potential to increase Latino representation in these fields. "By actively recruiting and supporting underrepresented Latino students, we nurture a new generation of healthcare and educational providers who bring their lived experiences, cultural knowledge, and linguistic expertise to the forefront. This representation will foster culturally and linguistically responsive services that truly meet the needs of our diverse communities.
Applicant
Nadia Alvarez Mexia, Assistant Professor of Practice and Assistant Director of Learning Development and Community Involvement for the W.A. Franke Honors College
Abstract
This project addresses the gap in research and narrative about Honors experiences in HSIs. Alvarez Mexia aims to "reframe the HSI narrative by recognizing and emphasizing the unique strengths and experiences of Honors colleges and programs at HSIs, particularly in serving their students.
Applicant
Katherine Cheng, Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology at the College of Education
Applicant
Athena Ganchorre, Director for the Office of Student Development and Assistant Professor in the Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine in the College of Medicine Tucson
Abstract
Will be addressing the shortage of diverse veterinary professionals in rural Arizona by reducing barriers to veterinary education for community college students. Using Augmented Reality technology, Ganchorre's project will provide educational opportunities, mentorship, and academic support.
Applicant
Maura Varley Gutierrez, Associate Professor of Practice in the Department of Teaching, Learning & Socio-Cultural Studies, College of Education
Abstract
This project will highlight UArizona Bilingual Elementary Education Program alumni implementing bilingual, culturally responsive education. Gutierrez hopes these stories will "create a sense of belonging for bilingual undergraduate students and help them see their potential as future bilingual, culturally responsive educators.
Applicant
Jhonatan Henao-Muñoz, Assistant Professor of Practice for the W.A. Franke Honors College and the Office of General Education
Abstract
To build the university's capacity to offer its faculty professional development in linguistic servingness. The aim is to support Hispanic-Latine/x students by maintaining and enhancing their bilingualism (English/Spanish), acknowledging their bi/multiculturalism and fostering spaces for their biliteracy skills. Henao-Muñoz envisions the ABC Higher Ed project replicated in other language combinations to sustainably and broadly foster linguistic servingness in borderland communities.
Applicant
Kavan Hazeli, Associate Professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
Applicant
Tarnia Newton, Assistant Clinical Professor in the College of Nursing
Applicant
Alyssa Ryan, Assistant Professor of Civil and Architectural Engineering & Mechanics and Assistant Director for the Center for Applied Transportation
Applicant
Marcos Serafim, Assistant Professor of Art in the School of Art