Latino College Expo Coming to Campus

The University of La Verne is gearing up to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with a community one-stop event for students and families eager to explore the endless possibilities of higher education. 

On Saturday, September 14, the university’s historic La Verne campus will transform into a bustling hub of opportunity as it hosts the 11th Annual National College Resource Foundation (NCRF) Latino College Expo & Educational Fair. Hundreds of college representatives and advocates will be on-hand ready to connect with students and guide them toward their future. 

“We are excited to host such an incredible experience and opportunity to interact with peers, counselors, alumni, and other support in one place,” said Alaina Dunn, vice president of enrollment management at the University of La Verne, of the largest expo of this kind in the region.

NCRF is dedicated to decreasing high school dropout rates and increasing college enrollment among underserved and at-risk students, aiming to close educational and economic gaps and end racial inequality. It has hosted over 300 college expos nationwide, helping more than 600,000 students gain direct access to higher education.  

The day promises to be filled with valuable insights with workshops covering everything from scholarships and internships to DACA, the DREAM Act, and emerging career fields. Students can even receive on-the-spot acceptances, waived application fees, and scholarships from some of the more than 50 colleges and universities expected. High school seniors are encouraged to bring 10-15 copies of their transcripts.

Attendees will also have the chance to explore the University of La Verne itself, with campus tours showcasing everything from undergraduate programs to pathways leading to graduate school. It’s an opportunity to see firsthand how the university, where more than 50% of the student body identifies as Hispanic or Latino, fosters an inclusive, supportive environment. Meanwhile, Hispanic heritage will be celebrated throughout with lively music and giveaways. 

Hispanic students continue to encounter barriers to higher education, including financial constraints, the complexities of being first-generation college students, and limited access to resources. While many are eligible for federal Pell Grants, their reluctance to take on student loans can restrict their access to necessary academic resources, potentially delaying graduation. Despite high labor force participation, Hispanic graduates frequently find themselves in lower-paying occupations, limiting their economic advancement.

The University of La Verne recognizes these challenges and supports Hispanic students on campus and beyond. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) since 2002, the university has created an inclusive environment where more than 50% of the student body identifies as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting its dedication to diversity and educational equity. The university is one of 39 private non-profit higher education institutions designated as both a Minority- and Hispanic-Serving Institute. 

“Our role as an HSI extends beyond our campus,” said Risa Dickson, interim president of the University of La Verne. “We are committed to empowering the broader community to achieve their educational and professional aspirations. The event is a vital part of that mission, providing resources, guidance, and opportunities that can make a profound difference in students’ lives.”