Rutgers-Newark Administrator Selected by Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities to Participate in National Leadership Program

Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives Jennifer Bucalo was among 26 fellows selected by the The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities Leadership Academy/La Academia de Liderzago, the association announced.

Since its inception, the program has advanced the careers of diverse leaders within a wide range of higher education institutions, demonstrating the value of the program in expanding opportunities at the highest levels of college and university administrations.

“As the demographic of Hispanic residents has grown in New Jersey, it’s important to have an educated population with a  higher earning potential who can contribute to the state's overall economic development,’’ said Bucalo.

“Having a more diverse student body leads to innovation and creativity that can view problem solving from different lenses across various industries,’’ she said.

The Leadership Academy faculty consists of current and former presidents, chancellors and senior administrators and brings over 100 years of combined experience in serving in various sectors of higher education, including private/public universities, community colleges and faith-based institutions. 

Mentorship with a university president or senior-level administrator is a key component of the program, as well as the development of a special project designed to have an impact at the Fellow’s current institution.

Fellows of the program participate in a range of development activities preparing them for leadership roles in the full spectrum of institutions of higher learning, with an emphasis on Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) and Emerging HSIs.

“This program signifies a commitment to supporting Hispanic students and expanding educational opportunities,’’ said Bucalo.

“It provides access to national networks which is dedicated to collaboration and advocacy,’’ she added. “It enhances our institution’s visibility to secure funding and resources for expanding access.’’

Mentorship with a university president or senior-level administrator is a key component of the program, as well as the development of a special project designed to have an impact at the Fellow’s current institution.

Since 2016, Rutgers-Newark, one of the most diverse colleges in the nation, has been federally designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution. More than 34 percent of undergraduates identify as Hispanic. 

he HACU’s one-year fellowship program includes webinars and three seminars, with the first seminar held in November 2025 in conjunction with HACU’s 39th Annual Conference in Aurora, Colorado. The second seminar will be held in Washington, D.C., in April 2026, at HACU’s National Capitol Forum. The third seminar will take place at a still to be determined international location.

For a list of the additional fellows, go here.